‘ello, you runner! What is/was on your schedule for this week? Plenty of easy runs? Maybe some hard workouts? Got a long run coming up this Sunday? 🫡

Whatever your week may be like, this week’s edition of RunLetters packs some inspiration, running form tips and moaaarrr! Oh, AND… you could win a pair of Saucony Endorphin Speed 4s. More about that under Gear & Gadgets.

Roll out the mat and do some ankle mobility while you read this one. Let’s go ⤵️

While this video may not be new, it definitely deserves a spot on your watchlist. If you're into trail running or ultras, you’ve probably heard the name Courtney Dauwalter—she’s one of the female GOATs of the ultrarunning world!

Personally, I’ve only started learning more about the trail and ultra space in the past few months. A year ago, her name didn’t mean anything to me. But now? I believe she can inspire any runner.

Whether you run roads or trails, short or long distances, this video is worth watching. The production quality is top-notch, Courtney’s perseverance and positivity are contagious, and the quotes throughout are incredible.

In this video, you see her tackle three legendary races in one summer (2023): Western States 100, Hardrock 100, and UTMB. I won’t spoil anything else—grab some popcorn, pour yourself a nice drink, and kick off the weekend with this one!

Sara Eydmann was recommended to me by a RunLetters Runner (thanks Phill!) —and I’m so grateful for it.

The first video I saw of her is the one linked at the bottom of this post. In it, Sara attempts not only to run a world record but also to become the first woman to run the North Coast 500. That’s 500 miles (830 kilometres). It’s described as Scotland’s “ultimate road trip,” but—as you may have guessed—Sara didn’t attempt this in a car. Ha ha.

The video below doesn’t show a traditional “success” story. It’s not a “look at me crossing the finish line” reel. Instead, it’s a story of hardship and truth. Of what some would call failure. But is it, really?

Is it a failure when we don’t succeed at the goal we set out to achieve? Does a DNF mean you failed? Dare I say, I don’t necessarily agree.

See, when you take on a big challenge (whatever that may be for you), having to quit partway through is sometimes the hardest thing you’ll have to do. “Giving up” has such a negative connotation, but the mental challenge we runners (and probably athletes in general) face when we must confront reality and step away from our goals is often far greater than the physical one.

We dream of achieving something. And when things don’t go as planned, we get angry, sad—we may even feel ashamed, especially if we told everyone we were going to do that “something.” Yet showcasing that we made the right decision in the moment (like Sara here, with her hip) is exactly what can inspire others.

She already felt a niggle around 30k in. The fact that she still made it as far as she did only shows her commitment and perseverance. Of course, we don’t (and maybe shouldn’t) give up right away. But making the final decision to stop can be so hard. So tough. And I truly respect those who do—and then share it with others.

Sara, you did something incredible. You fought hard. You are a warrior. Be proud.

And to everyone else: go give her a follow (and show her some love!).

Madeira’s a Portuguese island that’s known for its mountainous beauty—and nomad friendly environment. I mean, look at this:

Do you feel like lacing up your trail shoes just looking at this image? Then I’ve got the event for you: Ultra X Madeira.

This 110 km, 2-day event takes place over the weekend of November 1–2. You can either take on the full distance, run one of the two stages (60 km or 50 km), or opt for the 25 km single-day event.

Now, this isn’t the cheapest race out there, but it’s definitely the kind of event that belongs on your bucket list. And it’s one I’d highly recommend pairing with a little holiday—because Madeira looks absolutely stunning.

Maybe I’ll see you there? I’ll be around all weekend and will be running the 50 km on Day 2!

“Wait, 4? Isn’t Saucony just releasing the Endorphin Speed 5?” I hear some of you think. Yep, correct. And that’s exaaaactly why I’m writing about the Speed 4.

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 has been my favorite shoe over the last year. It’s soft, bouncy, and great for all types of runs. Easy runs, long runs, and tempo runs. It has a nylon plate and it propels you forward nicely without being overly aggressive.

And because Saucony is soon releasing the Speed 5, their Speed 4s are on sale! So if you’ve been in doubt, I’d snag a pair.

Not 100% sure? Then… well, join my giveaway! You could win a free pair. All you have to do is tag two other runners in the comments (since you are already signed up for the newsletter). You have until June 20th. Here’s the post:

Good running form can help you save energy, run faster, and avoid a bunch of injuries. But what actually is good form?

There are plenty of videos about it on YouTube, but many share tips that are hard to implement on your next run. The video below, however, is as clear and practical as it gets.

And even better? It’s only 3 minutes long—just a few minutes that could genuinely improve your next runs.

Not too long ago (read: this week), someone commented on my running form. I’ll never shy away from feedback when it comes to running—anything that helps me improve! That comment, combined with this video, made me much more aware of my form during my next run. I hope it does the same for you.

If only your next race went as fast as this 6th edition of RunLetters, right? Thank you for reading again. I appreciate you!

Have a great weekend 👋

Caroline