Staying Connected to the Community
AJW writes about the rewards of staying involved in the ultrarunning community, beyond one’s own racing days.
Andy Jones-Wilkins
Title: AJW’s Taproom Columnist
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
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Expertise
- Topics of Expertise: Trail running, ultrarunning, run coaching
- Amount of Expertise: 22 years trail running, 30 years ultrarunning, and 12 years coaching running, along with more than 500 articles published in the AJW’s Taproom column.
Education & Certifications
- Education: Bachelor of Arts, American Studies, Hamilton College; Master of Arts in Liberal Studies, Villanova University
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Years of Professional Experience Relevant to iRunFar: 11 years writing AJW’s Taproom
- Club Memberships: Aravaipa Running, Virginia Happy Trails Running Club, Charlottesville Area Trail Runners Club
- Other Relevant Positions, Current or Past: Senior-level coach with CTS, frequent contributor to Trail Runner Nation Podcast, Koopcast, and the Adventure Jogger podcast.
A Word from Andy Jones-Wilkins
I aim to inspire and motivate others about and through trail running and ultrarunning by providing thoughtful and provocative columns. My personal interests include trail running, ultrarunning, gravel cycling, and pizza making.
Analyzing the 2022 UltraRunner of the Year and Trail Runner of the Year Awards
A look at who took the top spots in both the 2022 “UltraRunning Magazine” (North American) UltraRunner of the Year and Freetrail Trail Runner of the Year awards.
The Curative Power of Nature
AJW’s thoughts on the restorative power of nature and time in green spaces.
Introducing the Race Director Chronicles
AJW introduces his new article series honoring the race directors who make our sport possible.
AJW’s Five 2023 Predictions for the World of Ultrarunning
AJW’s predictions for 2023 in the world of ultrarunning.
AJW’s Taproom 2022 in Ultrarunning Awards
AJW’s nominees for various 2022 end-of-year awards for ultrarunners.
Three Intriguing Storylines for the 2023 Western States 100/Hardrock 100 Double
A look at a couple of the lucky runners who will be taking on the 2023 Western States 100 and Hardrock 100 double.
Lottery Thoughts and a Challenge
Ahead of this weekend’s Western States 100 and Hardrock 100 lotteries, AJW offers some words of wisdom to the many who won’t be chosen.
Thankful for the Community
In this season of thanksgiving, AJW is grateful for the running community.
Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks
AJW talks about his new venture into gravel bike racing, and how it’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks!
The Future of Ultrarunning
AJW recounts recent chats with five strong figures in ultrarunning about the future of the sport.
Seasonal Swings
AJW reflects on the significance of the changing seasons and their effects on his running.
Eleven Years in the Taproom
A look back on the history of AJW’s Taproom thus far, reminding us of some great past articles.
Where Toughness Comes From
Building toughness through deliberative training, thoughtful nurture, and a flexible culture.
The Extraordinary Ultrarunning Career of Kilian Jornet
An article about the long, and still progressing, ultrarunning career of Kilian Jornet.
Keeping Your Head in the Game When the Weather Goes South
Advice for how to manage bad weather in the upcoming UTMB or other races.
Unforgettable Moments in Ultrarunning: Gunhild Swanson and the 2015 Western States 100
An article recalling Gunhild Swanson’s historic finish at the 2015 Western States 100.
The Incomparable Longevity of John Geesler
An article about ultrarunning legend John Geesler, who recently completed his 28th Vermont 100 Mile.
Unforgettable Moments in Ultrarunning: Kyle Skaggs and the 2008 Hardrock 100
An article remembering Kyle Skaggs’s iconic win at the 2018 Hardrock 100, as part of a series on unforgettable moments in ultrarunning.
A Coach’s Chronicles From the 2022 Western States 100
Stories from one group of runners in the 2022 Western States 100.
Food for the Soul at the Western States 100
AJW explains what makes the Western States 100 such a special event.
Remembering Mark Godale
A dedication to American ultrarunner Mark Godale, who recently passed away. RIP.
