Katie Schide Is All In at Hardrock

Jul 8, 2025

Katie Schide, an elite ultra runner and geologist, shares her journey ahead of her Hardrock 100 debut. She reflects on her evolution as a competitor and her ambitions in the sport. Katie describes UTMB as the 'Goldilocks' race, explaining how her geological background influences her running perspective. Buzz Burrell, a trail running legend, discusses potential exciting showdowns in the sport and highlights the importance of community among female ultra runners. Their conversation emphasizes both personal growth and the changing dynamics of ultra running.

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INSIGHT

Women Elevate Ultra Competition

Katie Scheid's rise highlights the growing depth in women's ultra running competition.
Multiple top athletes push the sport forward rather than one dominant figure.

INSIGHT

Course Records Aren't Definitive

Race times across years can't fully compare due to course and field variability.
Course records show potential but are not substitutes for head-to-head racing.

ADVICE

Arrive Early for Hardrock Prep

Arrive early at Hardrock to acclimate and explore the area thoroughly.
Experience different elevation and weather conditions to prepare mentally and physically.

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UTMB champion. Western States course record threat. Field hockey state champion. Rock doctor. Katie Schide is one of the most accomplished ultrarunners on the planet, and somehow, still one of the most quietly focused. In this episode of The Trailhead, Zoë and Brendan catch up with Katie ahead of her Hardrock 100 debut to talk about how she’s evolved as a competitor, why she used to downplay her ambitions, and what’s changed in both the sport and herself since her eighth-place finish at UTMB back in 2021.

They dig into why UTMB might just be the “Goldilocks” race of the sport, how Katie and her partner are spending the summer training in Colorado’s San Juans, and how her background in geology shapes the way she sees, and runs through, the landscape. Katie also shares her take on the term “sub-ultra” and why she thinks we’ve maybe overcomplicated what’s just... running.

Plus, Buzz Burrell drops in for a TrailCon Hall of Fame recap, a preview of a potential Katie vs. Courtney showdown at UTMB, and a quick nod to the real MVPs: New England moms on Facebook.

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And if you’re dreaming of a trail experience that’s less race and more wild adventure, don’t miss our featured adventure: Ruta de los Arrieros, a three-day expedition run through Colombia’s ancient gold routes. Expect big climbs, river crossings, waterfall rappels, jungle villages, and about as much trail magic as you can handle. It’s capped at just 10 runners this year and kicks off September 14, so if you’re into chasing moments instead of PRs, this one’s for you. Registration closes August 20 at UltraSignup.