Human Performance Outliers Podcast with Zach Bitter Episode 464: 100 Mile World Record | Caitriona Jennings
Nov 13, 2025
Caitriona Jennings, an Irish long-distance runner and 2012 Olympian, recently shattered the women's 100-mile world record. In this conversation, she shares her strategy for pacing through Tunnel Hill, emphasizing mental tools like breaking the race into segments. Caitriona discusses her nutrition plan, including caffeine strategies to maintain performance, and the importance of balancing data and intuitive running. She also reflects on transitioning from marathons to ultra distances and how her professional life enhances her athletic experience.
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First Hundred Was Largely Unknown
- Caitriona entered Tunnel Hill as her first 100-mile race with only 60 miles as her previous longest run.
- She relied on research and Zach's podcast to estimate pacing and accept unknowns for the last 40 miles.
Flat Course Favors Rhythm, Not Always Mindset
- Tunnel Hill's long straight out-and-back laps create a rhythm that favors fast times but challenges mental variety.
- Caitriona found solo stretches between 50–76 miles mentally hardest despite the physically runnable course.
Start With Data, Then Run By Feel
- Use pacing data early to hold yourself back when adrenaline pushes you too fast.
- Then switch to feel once comfortable to avoid data overload and enjoy the race.