This edition of RunLetters is all about trail running. Yes, there’s a bit of ultra in here, but don’t let that scare you. The Ultra X Spring Trail Series starts at just 12k, so there’s something for everyone.

Plenty of inspiration inside, plus a few things you’ll want to tell your friends about 😛

Let’s get started ⤵️

Great filming. Good storytelling. Solid editing. A humble runner.

It’s not often that a completely new YouTube channel from a non-famous runner throws out a video this good.

Tom Hanlon may be relatively new to the “social media scene”, but if the next videos are anything like this, we’ve got some treats coming our way. Get yourself a nice cuppa 🍵 and enjoy!

Running 300 miles through a desert is not easy. Add scorching heat, big climbs, and altitude in the Atacama Desert in Chile. Now imagine doing it in an unsanctioned race. Solo. Oh, and you’re 21 weeks pregnant 😂

Sounds unreal, but that’s exactly what Allie Gibbons pulled off at the end of November (this year).

She’s an endurance athlete and trail ultrarunner who shares honest, unfiltered snapshots of training. Her content leans into mindset, resilience, and the real emotions behind long-distance running.

Not many more words needed. She’s one to follow, and you can do that right here.

There are not many events where literally your whole run club could participate in a distance they will feel comfortable with. An event where those who want to run an easy 10k’ish and those who want to be out there for hours on end can go wild.

But the Ultra X Spring Trail Series is exactly that. It takes place on April 18, at the Serpent Trail (about 2 hours from London by car). It’s a stunning route that weaves through hills, rivers, woodland, and lowland heath of the South Downs National Park. And since all the races start and finish in the same location, you’re bound to have a pretty good cheer squad waving you goodbye and welcoming you back “home”.

Ultra X has very generous cut-off times, making the event even more accessible. On average, you have about 2 hours for every 10km. Hence, you’ll see some people sprinting away at the start line, and others commence a long hike.

You can get 10% off your race entry by becoming a member of the RunLetters Run Club. And if you are under 23, you can race this one for free (see more info here)!

If you’re considering getting into trail running (and possibly even races), you may want to consider getting some running poles.

There are many options available. One of the most recognised brands is Black Diamond. Their Distance Carbon Z poles are a staple at UTMB, Western States, and pretty much every mountain ultra.

I got to try out these poles during my recent 50k Ultra in Madeira, and thought I’d make a review video about them. These are not my poles, and I’m not affiliated with Black Diamond in any way. I borrowed them from a friend (shout-out Lieke).

The TL:DR? Good poles. Easy to deploy and fold away. Super light-weight. They did sometimes get stuck in the terrain, but this never caused me any trouble. They do come with a price tag. If you don’t plan on racing, I’d recommend you also look at aluminium poles. They’re generally more durable and affordable.

P.S. If you are considering poles, I recommend you check out Harrier Trail Running. Slightly more affordable, great reviews. Check them out here.

I mean… Who wouldn’t want to run The Daddy?

That’s it for another edition of RunLetters ✅

If you read all this ⤵️

Here’s to a great weekend ahead ☀️

Caroline