From the crazy 50K female finish at Chamonix to a discount on Shokz headphones and a (half) marathon in Salt Lake City: this edition of RunLetters is packed again.

Before we get started, I’d love to know who is racing in the upcoming months!

Voting is anonymous.

I’m personally signed up for a half marathon in Vienna in October, and a half in Lisbon in December. I’m planning to run some other races, but will see which ones.

ANYHOW, let’s get started ⤵️

I truly don’t care if you are into trail running or not. The finish of OCC, the 50K at UTMB Chamonix last week, is one you have to watch.

It’s a beautiful yet enthralling finish. You don't often see two women battling to the finish line in trail distances like these (and to be happy for the final winner, shout-out to Naomi).

Besides the actual finish (which you can see in the video above), I recommend watching the behind-the-scenes from Lauren herself. Seeing the prep and the moments just before the race, plus hearing her strategy throughout, makes you realize how hard it is to finish like this.

Because Lauren didn’t go into this race knowing she was going to win. She wanted to; she knew the opportunity was there. But she also knew that, to win, she’d have to run freely, not being drowned by the pressure of the possibility (which can tank your confidence).

I loved watching this one. It’s not a fancy edit (Lauren edits her own videos), but it does really take you behind the scenes of what it takes to run and win a race like this.

Why do you run?

For many of us, it’s to have a moment for ourselves. Whether that’s running with friends or solo, it’s some time spent just on ourselves. Improving our physical and mental health, challenging our boundaries.

So it was, and still is, for Caitlyn. “At 32, I really only knew who I was as a mom, wife, and business owner. I no longer had anything for ME, and I needed that back.”

What she didn’t know was that picking up running would change her life completely. It gave her confidence in so many aspects of life. Something I personally really resonate with.

Caitlyn’s page is full of good reminders not to wait for tomorrow to do the things you love. It’s not all running, but a lot revolves around it.

She’s some sunshine for your feed, and hence worth a follow.

Looking for a race for Spring next year? An event for the whole family? In one of the US’ most beautiful states?

Then the Salt Lake City Marathon could be a good fit for you. It takes place on April 24, 2027, and right now through September 7th, the entry fees are reduced (early bird pricing).

There are 4 distances: 5K, 10K, half marathon, and a full marathon (as well as a 1K kids event).

Both the half and full marathon are net downhill. The course map itself looks pretty nice too, with zero repeated sections for the half and only a few miles during the full (I personally really dislike out-and-back races).

Salt Lake City’s (half) marathon is still a relatively small event, which in my opinion is a plus. Big events can be absolutely awesome, but smaller races can be equally great, sometimes less chaotic and overwhelming while just as much fun.

Shokz bone-conducting headphones might be the most popular option on the market for runners who like to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks while running. And for a reason: they’re good.

Most runners don’t switch brands after they’ve tried out Shokz.

So it only made sense that I’d feature their newest product, which launched just last week: the OpenRun Air 2.

These new headphones are water-resistant and last up to 10 hours. They also charge extremely fast (just 5 minutes for 2 hours of playback), are super lightweight, and have wind-resistant mics for clear calls.

You can even ring them from your phone in case you lose ‘em!

Pretty nifty if you ask me. I’m definitely considering getting a pair.

I’m excited to share that the RunLetters Run Club has a new home 🏠

Last October, I started the RLRC to bring the readers of this newsletter together in a place where we could chat about all things gear, gadgets, races, events, etc. The club grew to 250+ members, but… the platform it was hosted on came with its own limitations.

The new platform solves these limitations.

You can join here:

With a new, fresh wind, I’m also working on more resources for the club as well as fun incentives. Join now to lock in your membership at just €1 a month.

Above all: thank you to those who decide to join. You help keep this newsletter alive and thriving!

That’s it for another edition of RunLetters ✅

I hope to see you inside the Run Club soon.

Other than that… here’s to a great weekend ahead ☀️ Hope you get a lovely (long, easy, fast, or short and sweet) run in!

Caroline

P.S. If you’re signed up for a race… tell me which one! I’d love to know where you’re all headed. Just hit reply on this email. I read every single one!