The Dirtbag Diaries Running 50 Classics
Jan 9, 2026
Andy Cochrane, an outdoor storyteller and trail runner, shares his inspiring journey of creating the 50 Classic Trails project. He recounts how a long run sparked the idea and led to teaming up with fellow runners Ian MacLellan and Ricky Gates. They navigate the definition of a 'classic' trail while prioritizing U.S. ecological diversity. The trio discusses the importance of community involvement, trail stewardship, and their collective visions, culminating in a heartfelt reflection on the project's impact.
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Idea Sparked At Smith Rock
- Andy Cochrane first imagined 50 Classic Runs while running at Smith Rock and couldn't find an existing book.
- He decided to create it himself after discovering no one was working on the idea.
Ricky's Longstanding Vision
- Ricky Gates had long thought about a 50 Classics-type running book since his mid-20s while living in Boulder.
- He originally expected to do the project solo and trusted his ability to carry it himself.
Collaboration Scaled The Project
- Teaming up changed the project's scale and credibility and aligned overlapping visions.
- Collaboration turned separate efforts into a shared roadmap for trail running's future.
