UTMB World Series 2025: The Tarawera Ultra-Trail This February
The UTMB World Series 2025 has officially commenced, bringing an exhilarating season of trail running to enthusiasts worldwide. Last weekend marked the exciting launch of the Arc of Attrition, one of nine new events on the global trail running circuit. As the series progresses, it shifts its focus to the stunning landscapes of New Zealand for the upcoming Tarawera Ultra-Trail, a celebrated race set to take place over February 15-16 in Rotorua.
Overview of the Tarawera Ultra-Trail
The Tarawera Ultra-Trail stands out as a prominent event within the 2025 UTMB World Series, comprising a daunting 102km challenge that serves as a HOKA Golden Ticket qualifier. This prestigious race offers top male and female finishers the incredible opportunity to qualify directly for the renowned Western States 100 in 2025. The Tarawera Ultra-Trail is expected to attract a diverse and elite roster of athletes, eager to test their mettle on the course.
Elite Competitors Set to Shine
This year’s Tarawera Ultra-Trail has drawn a remarkable lineup of elite runners, particularly in the women’s division. Defending champion Ruth Croft, who also finished as a runner-up at the 2024 UTMB, aims to secure her third consecutive T102 title on her home turf. Croft will face competition from her fellow New Zealander Caitlin Fielder, who is making her debut at the T102 distance. Rivals from across the globe, including two-time UTMB podium finisher Marianne Hogan from Canada and CCC podium finisher Helen Mino Faulkner from the USA, will make this race fiercely competitive.
Men’s Competition Heating Up
On the men’s side, home favorite Daniel Jones is on a quest to claim his third consecutive T102 title. However, he will have to contend with fierce competitors such as Thibaut Baronian from France, Robbie Simpson from Great Britain, and Adrian Macdonald from the USA, the former TMiler champion. Another noteworthy contender is Ryan Montgomery from the USA, who secured third place in the T102 last year. The competition promises to be electrifying as these athletes vye for top honors.
Highlighting Additional Events
The Tarawera Ultra-Trail encompasses various race distances, catering to a broad spectrum of runners. The TMiler event will feature defending champion Konoka Azumi from Japan and Hillary Allen from the USA, while the men’s side will see last year’s runner-up Sam Harvey returning for another shot at victory. Additionally, the T50 race will showcase athletes like Hayden Hawks from the USA alongside Spanish runners Daniel Osanz and Marc Olle Bernades.
A Diverse International Participation
This year’s event is expected to attract over 4,000 athletes from 78 different countries, with New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and France boasting the highest representation. The UTMB World Series is designed to unite elite runners with amateurs, emphasizing inclusivity while showcasing the stunning diversity of trail running locations across five continents.
Upcoming UTMB World Series 2025 Schedule
This year marks an exciting time for global trail running enthusiasts as the UTMB World Series delivers a thrilling roster of events. Following the Tarawera Ultra-Trail, runners can look forward to numerous prestigious races, including the HOKA Ultra-Trail Australia in May and the HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc Finals in August. A full schedule of events can be accessed on the official UTMB World Series website, here.
As excitement builds for the Tarawera Ultra-Trail, spectators and participants alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable event in the heart of New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery. The combination of elite competition and stunning landscapes encapsulates the spirit of the UTMB World Series and its commitment to advancing the sport of trail running worldwide.
