Ruth Croft: 2025 World UltraRunner of the Year
In the competitive realm of ultra running, few names resonate like Ruth Croft. Crowned the 2025 World UltraRunner of the Year, Croft has once again established herself as a formidable force, achieving significant milestones throughout the year. Her 2025 season culminated in an extraordinary performance at the prestigious Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), where she crossed the finish line in an astounding time of 22:56:23. Notably, she is the first woman to successfully claim victory in all three championship races of the UTMB World Series, completing the “Triple Crown” in Chamonix: OCC (55k), CCC (100k), and UTMB.
The Path to Glory
Croft’s journey to ultra running stardom has been nothing short of inspiring. In 2015, she first made waves in the ultra running community by winning the CCC, followed by her victories in OCC in 2018 and 2019. These early triumphs set the stage for her latest feat, solidifying her status among the sport’s elite. Her victory at UTMB not only highlighted her exceptional endurance but also underscored her tenacity and commitment to pushing her limits in ultra distance racing.
2025 Season Highlights
The 2025 race calendar has been particularly rewarding for Croft. Earlier in the year, she successfully defended her title at the Tarawera 100k in February, achieving victory for the third consecutive time while simultaneously setting a new course record. This significant win served as a testament to her training regimen and preparation, emphasizing her continual evolution as an athlete.
In addition to her triumphs at Tarawera, Croft also excelled at the MaXi-Race 60k event in France, which took place at the end of May. Demonstrating her versatility across different terrains and distances, Croft’s performance reaffirmed her strength and strategic prowess in navigating challenging ultra distances.
A Setback in the Journey
However, the race season was not without its challenges. Croft faced a significant setback when she was compelled to withdraw from the Transvulcania Ultramarathon (73k) as the defending champion due to severe hypothermia. Such incidents are a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of ultra running, where athletes must contend with environmental conditions that can turn perilous. Croft’s ability to recover and keep her focus on her goals exemplifies her resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
2025 Race Results Overview
Ruth Croft’s crowning achievements in 2025 can be summarized through her impressive race results:
| Event | Result | GP | OP |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTMB (FRA) | 22:56:23 | 1 | 21 |
| Ultra Trail Ninghai by UTMB (CHN) | 5:51:49 | 1 | 12 |
| Le Maxi Race du Lac d’Annecy (FRA) | 6:09:05 | 1 | 16 |
| Tarawera (NZL) | 8:24:34 | 1 | 8 |
| Transvulcania (ESP) | dnf |
Conclusion
Ruth Croft’s achievements in 2025 have had a profound impact on the ultra running landscape, inspiring countless athletes and fans alike. Her perseverance, coupled with her ability to overcome obstacles, underscores the dedication required to excel in a demanding sport. As she continues her journey, fans and aspiring ultra runners will undoubtedly be watching closely, eager to see what new heights she will reach in the coming years.
For more updates on ultra running and to follow Ruth Croft’s journey, visit World UltraRunning and keep an eye on upcoming events in the ultra circuit.
