Canada’s Rob Krar to race Leadville 100

One of the world’s best ultrarunners, Rob Krar, is back. And he’s making a big splash, racing the Leadville 100-Miler, which many consider to be one of the most prestigious and challenging ultra events in the world.

In 2014, Krar ran Western States, Leadville and Run Rabbit Run in the span of just 11 weeks. He won all three.

“Leadville, to this day, was the most challenging race I’ve ever done,” Krar said in the race’s Facebook Live Q and A, which can be watched in its entirety above. “I often talk about going to a dark place, but Leadville took it to the next level.” Krar won that race, and is also a two-time Western States champ.

Krar started off as a middle distance runner and triathlete. After burning out of track and road racing, he tried the 2009 TransRockies, but has battled injuries and has been candid about his struggle with depression. The native of Hamilton, Ont. emerged in the last few years as one of the best ultrarunners in the world.

Started in 1983, the Leadville 100 is a 161-kilometre trail race through the Colorado Rockies, hitting 3840-metre peaks, earning it the nickname “the race across the sky.” Krar came within 30 minutes of setting the course record with his 2014 win, finishing in 16:09:32.

Read our cover story on Krar from the 2014 Trail Special.