Running and Aging: Tapering for a Big Race
AJW writes about taper considerations for older athletes.
The 2026 Hardrock 100 is history! Read our 2026 Hardrock 100 results article, and watch our post-race interviews with winners Courtney Dauwalter and Ludovic Pommeret.
Andy Jones-Wilkins
Title: AJW’s Taproom Columnist
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Social Media Links
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.
AJW’s Final Thoughts on the 2026 Western States 100
AJW looks back on some statistics of the 2026 Western States 100.
A Tribute to Multi-Sport Legend Mark Macy
A tribute to Mark “Mace” Macy who passed away on June 6, 2026, after inspired generations of adventurers.
Intriguing Storylines and Predictions for the 2026 Western States 100
AJW’s intriguing storylines and predictions for the upcoming 2026 Western States 100.
If You Can’t Take the Heat: Historic Western States 100 Heat Training Protocols
A look at the heat training protocol of the original Western States 100 medical director Dr. Lind for the event’s runners.
History-Making Hundreds: Nikki Kimball’s 2006 Western States 100
In a new mini-series, AJW remembers Nikki Kimball’s 2006 Western States 100 win and overall podium finish.
The Pros and Cons of Modern Technology and Innovation
AJW writes about changes in running tech that he appreciates, and those he could do without.
John Cappis: Remembering a Hardrock and Western States Pioneer
A tribute to ultrarunning pioneer John Cappis, who passed away earlier this week.
Discovering a New Place Through Running
AJW writes about how running can help you get to know a new-to-you place.
Building Community the Old Fashioned Way
AJW writes about how race-specific training camps have created some of his best running memories.
Running and Aging: Finding Surprise Improvements
AJW takes a moment to appreciate a good day out at the 2026 Crown King Scramble 50k.
On the Move Again
Before a move from Arizona to Oregon, AJW thinks about how running has helped him find a sense of home wherever he lives.
The Virtues of Intrinsic Rewards Revisited
AJW considers the importance placed on finisher’s medals in light of the 2026 LA Marathon.
Jeff Galloway and Running for Life
A memorial to running legend Jeff Galloway, who recently passed away.
Time, the Great Unifier
AJW reexamines his relationship with time after watching the new film, “The Cutoff.”
Pitchers and Catchers Have Reported to Spring Training
There are many signs that spring is on the way — both in running and baseball.
One Voter’s Analysis of the 2025 North American Ultrarunner of the Year Awards
AJW looks at the panel’s selections for the 2025 “UltraRunning Magazine” North American Ultrarunner of the Year awards, and compares them to his own ballot.
Burrito League: Salsa-Inspired Pedestrianism
AJW compares the 2026 Burrito League and 19th century pedestrianism.
Sharing Miles with Ann Trason
AJW talks about getting to spend a few miles with long-time friend Ann Trason at the 2025 Across the Years.
AJW’s Three Wishes for Ultrarunning in 2026
AJW asks the genie in the bottle for three wishes for ultrarunning in 2026.
AJW’s 2025 Year in Ultrarunning Awards
AJW’s picks for various 2025 end-of-year awards for ultrarunners.
Revisiting DNFs as a Component of Ultrarunner of the Year Voting
AJW explains how he factors DNFs into his Ultrarunner of the Year ballot.
Legendary Aid Stations: Crossroads at the Uwharrie 100 Mile
AJW honors the legendary Crossroads aid station at the Uwharrie 100 Mile.
Running and Aging: Western States 100 and the Stages of Life
AJW compares the stages of the Western States 100 to the different phases of life.
Legendary Aid Stations: Snow Valley Peak at the Tahoe Rim Trail 100 Mile
AJW honors the legendary Snow Valley Peak aid station at the Tahoe Rim Trail 100 Mile.
