Meet Ultra Widow: Behind the Miles
Somewhere between 3 a.m. aid stations and long training weekends, I realized ultra running wasn’t just something my husband did. It was something we lived.
A new year feels like the right time to step back, introduce ourselves, and talk about what I hope Ultra Widow becomes in the year ahead.
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👋 When Running Turned Into a Lifestyle
My husband and I weren’t always active. Over time, we slowly changed our habits -- prioritizing health and finding activities we genuinely loved doing together. Mountain biking. Hiking. Exploring new places. He also found something new: running.
It started with his first 5K. Distances grew quickly, training cycles stretched longer, and suddenly ultra marathons weren’t a someday goal -- they were the plan.
From the outside, race day looks like the big moment. And it is exciting and incredibly rewarding. But what most people don’t see is everything that happens before it: reworking schedules, planning long runs, having honest conversations about time and priorities. Ultra running quietly reshapes everyday life.
That’s when I realized this wasn’t just a hobby. It was a lifestyle.
🤝 Who We Are (Outside of Ultra Running)
Something I want to be clear about: my husband isn’t a professional athlete, more middle of the pack kind of runner.
He runs ultra marathons because he believes it’s an honor that his body can do these. We’re just everyday people with day jobs who fit ultra running into real life.
We both work remotely, which gives us flexibility -- but it doesn’t mean unlimited time.
Ultra running isn’t our entire identity -- it’s something we build into busy lives alongside work, family, social calendars, and everything else that matters. And honestly, that’s part of why community and support mean so much to us. None of this happens in a vacuum.
🧠 Learning the Hard Way (and Loving It Anyway)
At my husband’s first ultra marathon, I had absolutely no idea what I was doing.
Ultra races aren’t like traditional marathons where you mostly just spectate. Aid stations are active and hands-on. Crews refilling bottles, managing nutrition, problem-solving on the fly, constant pace math, and providing emotional support when runners hit low points.
I showed up with the right intentions but absolutely no idea what I was doing, trying to help while quietly hoping I wasn’t making things worse.
But I learned -- fast. And it showed me something else too.
🫶 The Magic of Crews and Aid Stations
One of my favorite things is seeing a runner coming into an aid station and instantly light up when they see their crew. That moment when exhaustion meets familiarity…it’s powerful.
There’s something remarkable about watching runners arrive feeling completely defeated, only to be lifted up by their crew and sent back out again.
Aid stations are also where the community really comes alive. The waiting between runner sightings turns into connection. I’ve handed out extra water, offered lube, and traded tips with other crews. There’s no competition -- just crews cheering for every runner to make it through.
💛 Why Ultra Widow Exists
As I learned more, one thing became clear: there just weren’t many resources or even a online community for crews.
And I had so many questions:
What should you expect on race day?
How do you prepare during training season?
What gear actually matters?
What do you wish someone had told you before your first ultra?
I wanted a place to share what I’ve learned -- sometimes the hard way -- and to tell the stories that often go unseen.
The stories of spouses, partners, pacers, and crew members who help make these races possible.
🔮 Looking Ahead to the New Year
Right now, we’re waiting on the Leadville lottery to finalize this year’s race calendar. Last year brought five ultras, our first DNF, and countless unforgettable connections. This year, I’m excited to keep meeting new crews, volunteering at races, and continuing to share the stories that make this community so special.
As Ultra Widow grows, my hope is to offer more of what crews actually need -- practical guides and checklists, shared experiences, and community conversations.
Not just for race day but for the entire journey.
✨ Welcome to the Ultra Widow Crew
If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed or unsure of what you’ve stepped into -- welcome, we’re glad you’re here!
You don’t need to have it all figured out. This community exists to help you feel prepared, supported, and confident -- from your first ultra and beyond.
You belong here.
Here’s to a new year, new stories, and continuing to show up for the runners we love -- and for each other.
P.S. Want more crew tips like these? Don’t forget to download the free Ultra Crew Checklist to feel confident and prepared on race day.
HEY THERE, I’M ASHLEY
I’m the creator of Ultra Widow during the week and my ultra runner husband’s Crew Captain on race weekends.
This is a place for those of who didn’t sign up for the race but still show up anyway.
I’m glad you’re here, welcome to our crew!
