‘ellooooo runner, I hope you’ve had a very merry Christmas! 🎄 Did you get any runs in? Personally I only managed to get one 12k jog done. But hey, family (and Christmas treats) comes first!

Today’s edition has an epic giveaway for you (check out events & races). And of course, a good video to watch, an amazing runner to follow, gear to check out and a fun extra. Let’s get started ⤵️

The Hardrock 100 is not just another 100-miler. High mountains, big climbs, thin air, and long stretches where you’re completely on your own. It’s the kind of race that strips things back and asks one very simple question: “How bad do you want it?”

This week’s watchlist video follows Zach Miller running the Hardrock 100 for his close friend Bill Duper, who always wanted to see him participate in this race. After Bill passed away, and after injuries and surgery nearly kept Zach from the start line, this became “a lap for Bill”. One full loop through the San Juans, carrying his friend (or well, a photo of him) with him.

It doesn’t go to plan. His legs cramp. Fuel gets messy. The altitude hits hard. Zach runs the entire race alone, no pacer, just his thoughts and the photo in his pocket.

By the time he reaches the final miles into Silverton, he’s completely empty. And then he looks back. Another runner is right there. Close. Really close. And suddenly the finish line doesn’t feel guaranteed at all… 🤫

Enjoy watching! 🍿

Vote to see live results!

Gary House is a running coach and podcaster. On Instagram, he shares mostly short Reels with a solid dose of tough love. His content is aimed at runners who tend to overthink their training. Think training plans, pacing mistakes, the 80/20 rule, and accountability. He covers it all.

Gary coaches runners, runs ultras himself, and explains in simple terms why/which things work or don’t. He’s also part of the RUNcensored podcast, where the same honest style shows up in longer conversations. If you’re like trail running, ultras, or want some no-nonsense content that will simply make your day a little better, @garyhouse_ is worth a follow.

Win an entry to any half or ultra from Vacation Races! 🙌

Yes, you read the title right. This week, I’m not featuring one specific race or event. The reason? This crazy giveaway deserves the spotlight.

I’m giving away one free race entry to any half marathon or ultra marathon from Vacation Races. The winner gets full freedom to choose the race and the distance (as long as it’s not sold out yet).

To enter:

Entries close Sunday at 11:59 PM PST, December 28.
Winner will be picked Monday, December 29, and announced in the Run Club first (and then messaged directly).

If a big destination race is on your 2026 list, this one’s for you 🏜️🏃

Given that this is the final edition of RunLetters in 2025, I figured I’d share my top five gear picks and gadgets of the year. These aren’t necessarily items that came to market this year.

“Newest on the shelf” doesn’t always mean “the best there is”. But it often does mean “previous versions now on sale”. That’s true for two items in this video as well.

The Saucony Peregrine 15 trail shoes are currently on a massive sale, and the Coros Pace 3 running watch is 20% off. So if you’ve been eyeing either of them, this might be a good time to treat yourself. Especially if you picked up some cash or gift vouchers for Christmas.

I’d love for you to watch the video, but… if the written word is more your thing, here’s the rundown:

The first 3 links are affiliate links that will give you a discount & me a kickback!

For those of you who are active Strava users (or maybe even slightly obsessed with it), you’ve probably already heard of “Roast My Strava”. If you haven’t, you should probably give it a go.

What started as a fun side-project in 2024 by Jason, a software engineer living in NYC, quickly took over social media this week. And for good reason: the “Strava Roasted 2025” is basically your 2025, not wrapped, but roasted. It’s something else. It’s unique. It’s fun!

Try it out yourself here ⤵️

Last week, I had the pleasure of giving away a race entry for Boulderthon. The winner is Sarah Schwarz - I’ll get in touch with you via e-mail to arrange your entry!

Here’s to a great weekend ahead ☀️

Caroline

P.S. I also made a video with 3 good reasons to run on Christmas day. Did you see it?