Jazmine Lowther’s unyielding journey in pro trail running

The 2022 trail running season was a whirlwind for Jazmine Lowther of Nelson, B.C., marked by triumphs and setbacks, all while navigating the fierce terrain that defines her passion. She swooped onto the pro scene after pulling off an upset at the Canyons Endurance Run 100K in April 2022 and followed up that performance with a fourth-place finish in the CCC race at Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) off six weeks of training. 

Lowther’s introduction to professional trail running was like a dream come true, but she soon faced a tough challenge. “I’ve been on and off the injury bus for nearly a year now,” Lowther shares. “I’ve had to slash my entire season due to a foot injury. It’s coming down to biomechanics.”

At-home strength workouts with Canadian ultrarunner Jazmine Lowther

Although she’s faced numerous hurdles, Lowther remains motivated to return to the grand stage of trail running. One of her aspirations is to qualify for and participate at the much-celebrated UTMB in 2024. “I want to return to UTMB,” she expresses with enthusiasm, recounting her experience at CCC (Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix) last year. “Running through the Alps and soaking in the atmosphere—it’s unparalleled.”

The European racing scene, as Lowther points out, contrasts dramatically with what she has experienced in North America. “It’s night and day,” she says, acknowledging the distinct challenges and dynamics that the European races bring. “I know I could’ve pulled off a better result if I had more time to train [for CCC],” she confesses. With a training strategy focused on vertical gain and honing her mountain skills, Lowther is inspired to do everything it takes to get to that next level.

Since her first win at Canyons, Lowther and The North Face have been in a harmonious partnership driven by shared values and mutual determination. “The North Face was one of the first brands to reach out,” Lowther says. “They have been nothing but supportive. They know injuries are a part of the sport, but have embraced my journey and provided unwavering support.”

As Lowther continues to work toward her goals, her outlook remains positive. “I am starting to plan and look at races two years down the road,” she says, indicating a strategic approach that balances A races and B races. “I’m planning a slow but steady return in order to keep myself healthy for the 2024 season with my new coach, Jason Koop.”

Lowther emphasized that she’s happy she can align her identity with the brand as a mountain athlete. Her alliance with The North Face encapsulates the heart of her journey—a testament to the power of community, collaboration and to conquering the trails, one step at a time.

Jazmine Lowther appeared on the cover of Canadian Running’s Trail Special Issue in April 2023.