Celebrity Sightings: Ultrarunning Legends Are Coming to the Biggest Little Ultra. Will You Join Them?

We've got big news to share: the 2026 Biggest Little Ultra just got even more special.

With more than 60 registrants already signed up from across the country, we're thrilled to announce that some celebrated ultrarunning athletes will be toeing the line with us October 9-11, 2026 at the Sparks Marina. These are legends who have shaped what our sport is today. And they'll be running, chatting, and celebrating right alongside everyone else who signs up.

Here's who you'll get to meet (and maybe even run a loop with).

Ann Trason: The Greatest Woman Ultrarunner of All Time

If you know anything about ultrarunning history, you know the name Ann Trason. She is, without argument, the greatest woman ultra distance runner who has ever lived. Her résumé speaks for itself: she won the legendary Western States 100 an almost unbelievable 14 times.

Ann will be joining us for the 48-hour event, and her presence alone makes this a can't-miss weekend for anyone who loves this sport's history. Runners who've never had the chance to share a course with a true pioneer of women's ultrarunning now have that opportunity, right here in Sparks.

Ed Ettinghausen ("The Jester"): More 100-Milers Than Anyone Alive

Ed Ettinghausen, better known in the ultra community as "The Jester," has completed more 100-mile races than any other human being on the planet—north of 300 of them. Yes, you read that right.

Ed will be tackling one, possibly two, 100-milers over the weekend, all while entertaining runners and volunteers with his legendary stories and infectious sense of humor along the way. If you need a boost during those tough overnight miles, keep an eye out for The Jester. He's known for lifting spirits as much as he's known for logging miles.

Jim Ingalls: 81 Years Young and Still Chasing 100-Milers

Age is just a number for Jim Ingalls, and he's proving it in remarkable fashion. On February 21, 2026, Jim was crowned a National Champion after completing the USA Track & Field 100-mile ultramarathon at Jackpot in Henderson, Nevada, finishing in an incredible 38 hours, 51 minutes, and 38 seconds. That time was the fastest recorded by any participant over the age of 80.

We're honored that Jim is returning to the Biggest Little Ultra for his second year, ready to knock off yet another 100-miler. If you're ever tempted to think you're "too old" to try something big, Jim Ingalls is here to tell you otherwise.

Why This Matters for You

Here's the thing about ultrarunning: it's not really about who's fastest. It's about community, perseverance, and showing up alongside people who inspire you to be better.

Having Ann, Ed, and Jim at the Biggest Little Ultra means you'll have the chance to run the same course, share the same aid stations, and maybe even trade a few words with athletes whose names are woven into the history of this sport. Whether you're chasing your first ultra finish or your fiftieth, that kind of company makes the miles feel a little more meaningful.

And remember: you don't need to be a legend to belong here. Over 60 runners and walkers from all over the country have already registered, spanning every experience level imaginable. Beginners, veterans, walkers, and record-chasers are all welcome on this course.

Join Us October 9-11, 2026

The Biggest Little Ultra offers multiple distance and timed options, so there's a challenge suited to wherever you are in your journey. Come run alongside legends. Come chase your own personal record. Come be part of a community that celebrates every single finisher, at every single pace.

Register now: BiggestLittleUltra.com/registration

We'll see you at the Sparks Marina.