| Ultra distance running is running a distance longer than the typical marathon length. Ultra runs are typically trail running. Wikipedia has a good basic description of runs and locations. Ultra distance is not a new phenomena. In 1861 Edward Payson Weston walked 453 miles from Boston to Washington DC. This first distance walk began as the result of a bet regarding the inauguration of President Lincoln. In 1867 Edward Payson Weston walked from Portland to Chicago in 25 days, captivating the nation. A rivalry quickly developed between Payson and Daniel O'Leary, a recently-immigrated Irish farmer, and this rivalry spurred a series of 6-day races. The ultra race was born. The ezineArticles site offers a History of Ultra Distance Running. |  |