After eight years of pursuit and seven unsuccessful attempts, ultrarunner Joe McConaughy finally secured a Golden Ticket to the prestigious Western States 100 during Arizona's 2025 Black Canyon 100k. Starting his quest in 2017 at the Gorge Waterfalls 100k, McConaughy faced numerous challenges, including disappointing finishes and stiff competition. He briefly stepped back to focus on other races before returning to the Golden Ticket series in 2021, ultimately succeeding at the Black Canyon 100k. His long struggle underscores the determination and resilience essential in ultrarunning.
Last weekend, after seven previous attempts, Seattle, Washington, ultrarunner Joe McConaughy finally achieved the goal that had eluded him for eight years.
After three attempts within a year, McConaughy took a break from his Golden Ticket chase to run some low-key races on the U.S. East Coast.
In 2021, the Golden Ticket series evolved to include two 100-mile races - UTMB and the Javelina 100 Mile - and Joe saw Javelina as a perfect opportunity.
Joe came to Gorge Waterfalls determined and fit. After going out hard, he faded to fifth place behind Jim Walmsley, Ben Koss, Tyler Green, and Ben Stern.
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