Running and a Sense of Place
When searching for a sense of place, sometimes it’s worth going back to where it all started.
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.
Arizona’s Crown King Scramble, 25 Years Later
Twenty-five years after completing his first 50-mile race, the Crown King Scramble, AJW returns to the classic springtime race in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert.
Under the Radar Races: Trail du Loup
AJW profiles the Trail du Loup in the Central Ardennes region of Belgium as part of a series celebrating under the radar races.
Spring Training Has Begun
AJW ponders the yearly cycle of the running — and baseball! — season and how “hope springs eternal” as the days get longer.
Running For Different Goals
AJW shares his thoughts on different approaches to racing, after his recent experience at the 2024 Black Canyon 60k.
Under the Radar Races: Zane Grey Highline Trail Runs
AJW profiles the Zane Grey Highline Trail Runs, and its marquee event, the Zane Grey 50 Mile, in Arizona, as part of a series celebrating under the radar races.
Staying in the Game: Choosing to Stay in the Sport After One’s Competitive Peak
AJW’s thoughts on staying in the game, even when past one’s competitive peak.
Thoughts on the 2023 UltraRunner of the Year Awards
A look at current and previous winners of “UltraRunning Magazine’s” UltraRunner of the Year awards.
Under the Radar Races: Many on the Genny
AJW profiles the Many of the Genny 45-mile ultra in New York state, in the first part of a new series celebrating under the radar races.
AJW’s Five 2024 Predictions for Ultrarunning
AJW’s predictions for the world of ultrarunning in 2024.
AJW’s Taproom 2023 in Ultrarunning Awards
AJW’s picks for various 2023 end-of-year awards for ultrarunners.
Introducing the Under the Radar Races Series
Introducing a new series to celebrate low-key, under-the-radar races.
Race Director Chronicles: Michael Owen and Southeastern Ohio Trail Runners
An interview with race director Michael Owen of Southeastern Ohio Trail Runners.
Running and Holiday Traditions
Andy Jones-Wilkins reflects on a Thanksgiving ritual, and how it has become a part of his life in the same way as running has.
Scheming and Dreaming Season
A look ahead to popular race plans for 2024 and trends in ultrarunning.
Race Director Chronicles: Libby Jones and The Active Joe
A profile of Dinosaur Valley Endurance Runs race director, Libby Jones.
Golden Ticket Season: The History and Evolution of the Western States 100 Golden Ticket Races
A brief history and explanation of the Western States 100 Golden Ticket Races.
Race Director Chronicles: Jubilee Paige and Aravaipa Running
A profile of Javelina 100 Mile and Black Canyon Ultras race director, Jubilee Paige.
Paying Homage to the Classic September 100 Milers
AJW pays homage to eight of his favorite fall 100 milers.
Ultrarunning as a Soul Sport
AJW writes about finding food for the soul, in running or other sports.
Race Director Chronicles: Michele Hartwig and Ornery Mule Racing
An interview with Michele Hartwig of Ornery Mule Racing.
Running and Aging: From Strength to Strength
An essay about transitioning to the second half of life as a runner.
The Western States, Hardrock, and Leadville 100 Milers, 14 Years Later
AJW’s reflections on the changes through the years at three iconic American ultramarathons.
When the Race Flame Dims
Ideas for enjoying our sport and the outdoors when you aren’t inspired to race.
Race Director Chronicles: The One and Only Dave Walker
An interview with Dave Walker, race director of the Worlds End Ultramarathon.
2023 Vermont 100 Mile: Canceled Due to Flooding
Flood damage and severe safety concerns forced the cancellation of the 2023 Vermont 100 Mile.
