Western States 2026 - Walmsley, Jornet Lead Deepest WSER Lineup Yet
Photo : WSER
Western States 2026 is shaping up to be one of the deepest fields ever
The start list for the Western States Endurance Run is already giving off big-year energy. With Jim Walmsley confirmed and Kilian Jornet already on the line, the headline alone is enough to define the race. But it’s the depth behind them that makes 2026 feel different.
A field that goes way beyond the favorites
Returning names from last year’s top finishers bring serious continuity into this edition. On the men’s side, runners like Jeff Mogavero, Daniel Jones, Hans Troyer and Hiroki Kai are back — all capable of shaping the race deep into the canyons.
The Golden Ticket system has once again delivered a wave of in-form challengers. Names like Adam Peterman, Hayden Hawks, Zach Miller, Thomas Cardin, Vincent Bouillard and Francesco Puppi add even more firepower. It’s a mix of proven WSER performers, aggressive racers, and athletes arriving in peak form after standout qualifying races.
On the women’s side, the returning top 10 is just as compelling. Abby Hall returns as defending champion, with Fuzhao Xiang, Marianne Hogan, Ida Nilsson and Fiona Pascall all back in the mix. Add Golden Ticket winners like Riley Brady, Tara Dower and Yngvild Kaspersen, and the women’s race could be just as unpredictable — if not more.
Looking back: what 2025 reminded us
Last year’s edition reinforced what makes Western States unique. It’s not just about who is strongest on paper — it’s about who can handle the rhythm of the course. The heat through the canyons, the long runnable sections, the descents that quietly destroy your legs.
The 2025 race saw Abby Hall take the win on the women’s side with a composed, late-race effort, while the men’s race delivered a tightly contested podium where Kilian Jornet finished 3rd — a reminder that even the best in the world have to adapt to this course.
A race built on history
Few races carry the same weight as Western States. From the early days of Gordy Ainsleigh riding into Auburn, to modern duels that have defined eras, this race has always been about more than just finishing times.
The course itself — from Olympic Valley to Auburn — rewards patience, punishes mistakes, and creates moments that stick. River crossings at Rucky Chucky, the quiet suffering through Foresthill, the final push to the track — it’s all part of the identity.
What to expect in 2026
This year feels like a collision of eras and styles.
A returning champion trying to defend
Global stars stepping back onto the WSER stage
Golden Ticket winners arriving with momentum
A depth that could keep the race open well past Foresthill
If conditions play their usual role, the race won’t be decided early. It rarely is. Western States is about timing your move, surviving the lows, and still being able to run when it matters most.
Jim Walmsley for HOKA
