The Leadville Trail 100, also known as The Race Across The Sky, is a renowned ultramarathon that takes place annually in the heart of the Rocky Mountains near Leadville, Colorado. Established in 1983, this grueling race challenges participants with its rugged terrain and high-altitude conditions. The course is famous for its breathtaking scenery and the physical and mental endurance it demands from runners.
The Course: A Test of Endurance
The Leadville Trail 100 is a 100-mile out-and-back
race that primarily follows the Colorado Trail. Starting at an elevation of 10,200 feet, the course takes runners through a series of climbs and descents, totaling 15,744 feet of elevation change. The most notable feature of the course is the climb up to Hope Pass, which reaches an altitude of 12,532 feet. This challenging ascent is encountered twice, once on the outbound leg and again on the return, making it a critical point in the race.
The high-altitude environment and rugged terrain make the Leadville Trail 100 a formidable challenge. Runners must navigate dirt roads and rocky trails, often facing unpredictable weather conditions. The combination of altitude, distance, and terrain means that fewer than half of the participants typically finish the race within the 30-hour time limit. This demanding course tests not only physical endurance but also mental resilience.
Historical Roots and Community Impact
The Leadville Trail 100 was conceived in the early 1980s by Jim Butera, president of the Colorado Ultra Club. When other locations showed no interest, Butera found support in Leadville, a town seeking to boost tourism after the closure of the Climax Molybdenum Mine. The first race was held in August 1983, with Butera serving as race director alongside local supporters.
Over the years, the race has grown in popularity and significance. In 2001, the Leadville Trail 100 Legacy was established to support the welfare of Lake County residents. The race has become a key event in the ultrarunning community, attracting participants from around the world and contributing to the local economy.
A Part of Ultrarunning History
The Leadville Trail 100 is part of several ultrarunning series, including the "Western Slam" and the "Grand Slam of Ultrarunning." It is also a qualifying event for the prestigious Western States 100. Unlike many other ultramarathons, Leadville does not have qualifying standards, allowing a diverse range of runners to participate.
The race has seen many notable performances, including the participation of the Tarahumara runners from Mexico in the early 1990s. Their presence and success brought international attention to the event. The Leadville Trail 100 continues to be a symbol of endurance and adventure, drawing runners who seek to test their limits in one of the most challenging ultramarathons in the world.
