In the final episode of the UU Leadville Uncovered 2026 series, Corinne Shalvoy and Russell Ditsworth break down the newly announced Leadville Trail 100 Run course and discuss how the reroutes compare to the traditional route. While the first and last sections of the race have changed, runners will still experience the heart of Leadville: Outward Bound, Twin Lakes, Hope Pass, and Winfield. Russell shares why he believes the redesigned course does an excellent job preserving the spirit and profile of the original race while reducing bottlenecks and technical terrain.
The conversation then turns to race predictions, with discussion around top contenders, potential winning times, and how the faster course could impact both elites and mid-pack runners. Corinne and Russell predict a competitive race on both the men's and women's sides, while acknowledging the legendary performances that have defined Leadville history.
Russell also shares a candid look at his Leadville preparation. From his strongest training block to date, night running practice, gear choices, heat management lessons, and race-day strategy, he's entering the race feeling healthy, confident, and focused on pursuing the coveted Big Buckle while securing a Western States qualifier.
The episode closes with details about Ultra Uncovered's live athlete panel at the Leadville Expo, shoutouts to the Castle Rock Run Club athletes racing and supporting the event, and an overview of expanded media coverage that will bring fans closer to the action throughout race weekend.
HUGE Thanks to Open Fuel Nutrition for their support of the entire Leadville Uncovered series.
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