Running 100 Miles: Part Three: A History (1977-1979) (Ultrarunning History)

Book Synopsis: The first two volumes of this 100-mile ultrarunning history covered nearly 250 years, during which more than 1,000 people walked or ran 100 miles within 24 hours. Volume three covers only three years. Why? Starting in 1977, the 100-mile ultramarathons received much more publicity and participation. 1977 was the year when the Western States 100 was established in the California Sierra mountains. This volume presents, for the first time, a detailed history of the first three years of the Western States 100, cutting through the common myths and marketing claims. During 1977, seven other 100-mile races were held around the world that have been mostly forgotten, including trail 100-milers in England that pre-dated Western States 100 by four years. Their stories are told.

1978 saw the establishment of the Unisphere 100 at Flushing Meadows in New York City, the Fort Meade 100 in Maryland, and the Primo 100 in Hawaii. In 1979, the Old Dominion 100 was created, patterning many of its mountain trail 100 practices after those that were being implemented at the Western States 100.

These ultramarathons would be nothing without the ultrarunners and their stories. This volume will include detailed spotlights on the amazing 100-miler runners during the late 1970s, including Don Ritchie, Park Barner, Ted Corbitt, Marcy Schwam, Frank Bozanich, Don Choi, Andy Gonzales, Max Telford, Ruth Anderson, Ed Dodd, Tom Osler, Ray Krolewicz, Gordy Ainsleigh, Stu Mittleman, and others.