Japan’s Miho Nakata sets a new women’s world record, and Lithuania’s Aleksandr Sorokin repeats as the men’s winner at the 2023 IAU 24-Hour World Championships. Sorokin also set a new 100-kilometer world record on May 14, 2023, and previously set a 24-hour world record in September 2022 in Verona, Italy. The article includes interviews with Sorokin about his various world record achievements and aspirations.

Explores the importance of camels and camel milk in drought-ridden regions, emphasizing the under-reported medicinal and vital health benefits of camel milk. Highlights the disparity in disaster insurance coverage between poorer and richer countries, with less than 5 percent of disaster losses covered in poorer countries compared to 50 percent in rich nations.

Stanford University has banned hard liquor at on-campus parties and limited bottle sizes in undergraduate housing as part of a new alcohol policy. Critics argue the policy is an inadequate response to sexual assault, particularly in light of the Brock Turner case, where the convicted former athlete blamed the university's party culture for his actions. Stanford law professor Michele Landis Dauber believes the policy is a reaction to the case, while university spokesperson Lisa Ann Lapin asserts the policy was not connected to the case and had been in development for some time.

Finding the perfect gift for women who trail run is made easier with this comprehensive guide, which includes a variety of high-quality, women-specific running gear and accessories. The guide features top picks like the Patagonia Women’s Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt, Oiselle Flyout Long Sleeve, Janji W’s 3″ AFO Middle Short, and the Salomon Adv Skin 5 Women’s Running Vest. It also highlights essential recovery tools such as the Roll Recovery R4 Body Roller and Brazyn Performance Talon Massager, as well as tech gadgets like the Coros Apex 2 Pro GPS watch and Myzone MZ-Switch heart rate monitor. Each product is praised for its functionality, comfort, and suitability for women runners, making them excellent gift choices.

The article provides a curated list of 14 recommended gifts for trail runners, ranging from $35 to $699. It includes detailed reviews of various trail running shoes, hydration packs, GPS watches, massage tools, foam rollers, and earbuds. Each product is praised for its functionality, practicality, and suitability for trail running. The recommendations are based on thorough testing by iRunFar staff and testers, ensuring that each item is worth the investment.

Emily Hawgood, an ultrarunner from Beatrice, Zimbabwe, has made significant strides in the sport, highlighted by her top-10 finishes at the Western States 100 and UTMB in 2021. Growing up on a farm and participating in various sports barefoot, Emily's resilience and gratitude were shaped by her upbringing. After moving to the U.S. for college, she delved into triathlons and trail running, eventually excelling in ultra-distance races. With a master's degree in High Altitude Exercise Physiology, Emily now coaches athletes while continuing to compete and push her limits in the sport.

Salt Lake City faces severe air quality issues due to its geographical location. Jared Campbell, a local trail runner, created the Running Up For Air (RUFA) race to raise awareness and funds for clean air initiatives. The event has grown into the Up For Air Series, with multiple races across different states, supporting various environmental charities. The series has garnered support from companies like Black Diamond and Patagonia and has inspired similar events like Climbing Up For Air (CUFA). Participants, including notable runners like Katie Brown, emphasize the race's importance in promoting environmental awareness and community involvement.

Patti Flynn, a trans woman and ultrarunner, is a prominent advocate for equitable policies in trail running and ultrarunning. She works with the Equality Institute and Running USA to create inclusive policies for trans and nonbinary athletes. Flynn's journey from hiding her true identity to becoming a vocal advocate highlights the challenges and progress in the acceptance of trans athletes. Her efforts aim to ensure that all athletes can compete in categories that align with their gender identity, fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting community.

This gift guide for fastpacking and adventure running highlights a range of ultralight and practical gear designed to enhance the outdoor experience. Key products include the Pa’lante Packs Joey for its optimal fastpacking features, the Sol Escape Bivvy for its lightweight and durable design, and the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape for its versatile use as a tarp and poncho. Other notable items are the Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20 Sleeping Bag for its warmth and lightness, the NEMO Switchback Ultralight Sleeping Pad for its reliability, and the BRS 3000T Stove for its ultralight convenience. The guide also recommends the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter for its effectiveness, the TentLab The Deuce #1 Potty Trowel for its practicality, and various food options like Trail Butter and Epic Provisions Chicken Sriracha Bars for their nutritional value. Additionally, the Coros Vertix 2 GPS Watch is highlighted for its battery life and features, while Nitecore products are praised for their efficiency. The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles and the Tenkara Hane Complete Set for Fly Fishing are also recommended for their utility and compact design.

The New Balance NB Fuel Bra is highlighted as the top choice in iRunFar's guide for the best sports bras for running. It is praised for its support, simple sizing, open-back breathability, and minimal chafing due to its seamless design. The bra is suitable for runners with AA to C cups and features NB DRYx fabric, which is fast-drying and made of environmentally preferred materials. The bra's removable pads, reflective logo, and optimal strap placement are also noted. Testers reported that the bra maintains comfort across a range of temperatures and is easy to remove after sweating.

The Runderwear Power Running Bra is highly recommended for larger-busted women seeking support and comfort while running. Priced at $80, it offers a wide range of sizes, padded encapsulation, and customizable features to prevent chafing and back pain. Despite some sizing challenges, the bra's quality and customer service make it a worthwhile investment.

The author announces their departure from iRunFar to pursue a career with the United States Air Force in Alaska. Reflecting on their journey, they recount their experiences in nursing, journalism, and wildland fire, emphasizing their preference for challenging environments. They express gratitude for the supportive trail running community and colleagues at iRunFar and Lola Digital Media. The author looks forward to new adventures in Alaska, inviting the local trail and ultra community to connect.

Fatima Ibrahimi, originally from Iran and raised in Afghanistan, has faced societal and dangerous opposition to her passion for running, especially as a woman. Despite these challenges, she competed internationally for Afghanistan's national team and worked with the nonprofit Free to Run to empower young women through sports. Following the Taliban's resurgence in 2021, Fatima was evacuated and eventually settled in Thunder Bay, Canada. Free to Run continues to seek ways to operate in Afghanistan and has programs in Iraq. Fatima remains dedicated to encouraging girls to pursue their dreams and participate in sports without fear.

Amy Rusiecki, a trail runner and race director, has been instrumental in promoting adaptive athletics in the trail running and ultrarunning community. She has directed the Vermont 100 Mile, which has a history of including adaptive athletes, and has introduced specific categories for them. Rusiecki's background in engineering and her experience in various endurance sports have contributed to her success in race directing. The article also acknowledges other women race directors like Krissy Moehl, Tia Bodington, Keira Henninger, and Candice Burt, who are making significant contributions to the sport.

Magda Boulet, a prominent figure in women's trail running and ultrarunning, has achieved significant milestones both as an athlete and as the President of GU Energy Labs. Boulet's journey from an immigrant and professional runner to leading a major sports nutrition company underscores her determination and ability to break barriers. Her story highlights the growing participation of women in trail running and ultrarunning, and the importance of supportive company cultures in fostering success. Boulet's experiences and leadership at GU Energy Labs reflect her commitment to inspiring other female athletes and advancing the sport.

Camille Herron set a new women's 100-mile world record at the 2022 Jackpot Ultrarunning Festival in Henderson, Nevada, completing the distance in 12 hours, 41 minutes, and 11 seconds. Despite USA Track & Field not ratifying the record due to a course deviation, Herron's achievement marks a significant milestone in her career as a masters athlete. The interview covers her recent health struggles, her transition to Hoka as a sponsor, and her strategies and experiences during the race. Herron reflects on her evolution as an athlete, her training adjustments, and her future aspirations, including competing in the Western States 100 again.

Earl Blewett, a seasoned ultramarathon runner, went missing for 36 hours during the 2021 Ancient Oaks 100 Mile race in Titusville, Florida. After a fall and severe ankle injury, he became disoriented and was eventually found by a search team involving helicopters, dogs, and volunteers. Blewett suffered from a concussion, dehydration, and rhabdomyolysis but was ultimately rescued and treated at Parrish Medical Center. The incident highlighted the challenges of ultrarunning and the importance of safety measures. Blewett and his family expressed deep gratitude for the efforts of the race volunteers, police, and medical staff involved in his rescue and recovery.

The author reflects on their first year of trail running, detailing their journey from initial struggles to finding joy and community in the sport. They recount experiences from various locations, including Minnesota, the Middle East, and Idaho, and highlight the supportive trail running community. The narrative includes personal anecdotes, lessons learned, and the author's transition from nursing to a potential career in the Air Force and a role at iRunFar.

Lithuanian runner Aleksandr Sorokin broke the 11-hour barrier for running 100 miles and set new world records for both the 100-mile and 12-hour ultramarathon at the 2022 Spartanion race in Tel Aviv, Israel. Sorokin's new records include a 100-mile time of 10 hours, 51 minutes, and 39 seconds, and a 12-hour distance of 110.24 miles. This achievement surpasses his previous records by significant margins. Sorokin's performance was consistent and impressive, further establishing him as one of the top ultrarunners globally.

The article provides a comprehensive preview of the top female runners participating in the 2022 UTMB events, including the 170-kilometer UTMB, 100k CCC, 145k TDS, and 55k OCC races. It categorizes the athletes into Recent Top-Five Finishers, Headliner Women, and More Top Women, listing their recent achievements and potential standings. The article also highlights notable entrants for each race and mentions some top runners not currently on the entrants' list for 2022.

Jim Walmsley and Jessica Brazeau, both accomplished trail runners, use a 1998 Toyota 4Runner named Casper for their high-altitude training and adventures. The vehicle, heavily modified for off-road and camping capabilities, serves as their mobile home and adventure rig. Jim, known for his ultrarunning achievements, and Jessica, also a successful trail runner, have customized Casper to handle rugged terrains and provide comfort during extended trips. The article details the vehicle's specifications and modifications, highlighting its importance in their outdoor lifestyle.

The 2021 Desert Solstice Track Invitational showcased exceptional performances with multiple American records broken. Nick Coury set a new men’s American 24-hour record with 173.01 miles. Camille Herron reset her women’s American 100-mile track record to 13:21:51. Pam Smith established four women’s American age group records in her 100-mile effort. The event, held in Phoenix, Arizona, featured elite runners competing in 24-hour and 100-mile races, with notable achievements including Jacob Jackson's men’s American age group record for 200 kilometers and Marisa Lizak's victory in the women's 24-hour race despite visible pain.

Dylan Bowman and his company Freetrail have released their first full-length film, “Begin Again,” documenting Bowman’s experience at the 2021 Diagonale des Fous, a grueling 100-plus-mile race on Réunion Island. The film, shot by Ryan Thrower, captures Bowman’s journey through the race, highlighting his physical and mental challenges, the support from aid station volunteers, and his camaraderie with fellow runner Mike Aigroz. Despite not meeting his race goals, Bowman reflects on the lessons learned, making the film an inspiring watch for runners of all levels.

The 2022 Hardrock 100 ultramarathon lottery results have been announced, with 119 runners chosen from a pool of 1,916 applicants. The event will start 145 runners, including 18 international rollovers, two returning champions, and six picks by Run Director Dale Garland. The lottery adhered to a new Gender Equity Policy ensuring women's representation on the start line is proportional to their lottery application percentage. Notable entrants include defending champions Sabrina Stanley and François D’Haene, among others. Waitlists were also drawn for potential additional entrants.

Lucy Bartholomew, known for her ultrarunning achievements, is featured in the new film 'Running Out.' Despite challenges such as dehydration and getting lost, she successfully sets the women's supported fastest known time on the 223-kilometer Larapinta Trail, finishing in 2 days, 6 hours, and 23 minutes. The film captures her journey along the trail, which is typically completed over several weeks, with the support of filmmaker Bryan Hynes and photographer Josh Lynnot.

Justin Simoni, an athlete based in Boulder, Colorado, has embraced a car-free lifestyle since 2016, relying on his two bicycles for transportation and adventure. He uses a Salsa Journeyman for paved and gravel roads and a Surly ECR for more challenging trails. Simoni's passion for outdoor activities, including trail running and bikepacking, has led him to explore various parts of Colorado and beyond. He is currently working on two guidebooks to share his experiences and encourage others to explore the outdoors. Simoni's approach to adventure emphasizes environmental consciousness and the benefits of a car-free lifestyle.

Ashley Brasovan, a competitive trail runner from the U.S., has a unique affinity for both mountains and the sea. Her background in swimming and diving in Florida sparked her interest in environmental issues, leading her to a career in environmental sustainability. Brasovan, who has competed in the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials twice, excels in sub-ultramarathon-distance mountain races, recently placing second at the 2021 Pikes Peak Ascent and the Mount Washington Road Race, and winning the 2021 Speedgoat 50k. Now residing in Golden, Colorado, she works on renewable energy and energy efficiency strategy, finding a connection between her environmental career and trail preservation. After overcoming an eating disorder and stress fractures, Brasovan has become a formidable competitor in the sub-ultra racing world. She plans to race the Moab Trail Marathon and then take a break for skiing, swimming, travel, and her upcoming wedding.

Harvey Lewis emerged as the champion of the 2021 Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra, setting a new record by completing 85 laps. The grueling race, held in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, saw participants running continuous 4.166667-mile loops until only one remained. Notable participants included Michael Wardian, Courtney Dauwalter, and Maggie Guterl, with Lewis ultimately outlasting Chris Roberts and Terumichi Morishita. The event, created by Lazarus Lake, is known for its extreme endurance challenge, with Lewis's victory marking a significant achievement in the backyard ultra format.

Anton Krupicka, after years of battling injuries and exploring other mountain activities, made a notable return to the Leadville 100 Mile race in 2021. Known for his minimalist and shirtless running style, Krupicka first gained fame with a commanding win at the Leadville 100 in 2006. Despite a series of injuries that kept him from competing in ultras since 2015, he finished third in the 2021 race, only six minutes slower than his winning time 15 years ago. The article highlights a video by Billy Yang and La Sportiva that captures Krupicka's journey and evolution.

Aleksandr Sorokin of Lithuania set a new world record for 24-hour running at the 2021 UltraPark Weekend 24 Hour race in Poland, covering 309.400 kilometers. This achievement surpasses the previous records set by Yiannis Kouros. Sorokin attributes his success to improved training, support from his coach Sebastian Białobrzeski, and the ability to train full-time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite challenges during the race, including stomach issues, Sorokin managed to push through and secure the record. He plans to compete in future IAU 24-Hour World Championships but has no immediate plans for other races this year.

The 2021 Western States 100 saw runners eager to compete after a COVID-19 hiatus, with extreme heat impacting performances. The race was notable for a historic showing by women, with three finishing in the top 10. Predictions were upended as some favorites underperformed or dropped out, while others exceeded expectations. Jim Walmsley and Beth Pascall emerged victorious, both delivering remarkable performances despite challenging conditions. The event was marked by high emotions and a strong sense of community as participants and spectators celebrated a return to competitive racing.

Women are increasingly becoming a significant presence in wildland firefighting, a field historically dominated by men. Initiatives like the National Interagency Prescribed Fire Training Center and the Women in Wildland Fire Bootcamp are fostering leadership and operational confidence among women firefighters. Despite facing challenges such as implicit bias and sexism, women like Hannah Gross and Shawna Legarza have made strides in the profession, with women now comprising over 10% of wildland firefighters. These efforts are not only increasing the number of women in the field but also enhancing team dynamics and broadening perspectives within fire crews.

Women are increasingly joining the ranks of wildland firefighters, a field historically dominated by men. Initiatives like the Cedar City Hotshots, National Forest Foundation, and National Interagency Prescribed Fire Training Center are supporting the growth of women in this sector. Women now make up 12 percent of wildland firefighters, up from 5 percent in the past. They face challenges such as implicit bias and sexism but are making strides in leadership positions. The presence of women is said to bring a different perspective and improve team cohesion in firefighting crews.

The article discusses the plight of children in Mosul, Iraq, who have been deeply affected by ISIS's rule and the subsequent war to liberate the city. It highlights the stories of several children, including Ahmad Shaker, who was trapped and orphaned during the siege, and others like Saqer and Dilshad, who bear psychological scars from their experiences. The piece also touches on the challenges faced by children with family ties to ISIS, who are stigmatized and often lack access to education and social services. The article underscores the concerns of local officials and aid workers about the potential for a new generation of extremism to arise from these traumatized and marginalized youth.

Three years of war have devastated Sanaa, Yemen, with subtle yet profound changes in daily life. The Saudi-led coalition's blockade and airstrikes have caused severe economic and humanitarian crises, leaving 80% of the population in need of aid. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and malnutrition among children is rampant. The conflict has displaced thousands, forcing many into dire living conditions. Despite the resilience of Yemenis, the war has brought the nation to a breaking point, with basic needs becoming increasingly unattainable.

Mosul, Iraq, symbolizes the future of the country post-ISIS, with its reconstruction being crucial for the millions of displaced children. The city's Old City has been particularly devastated, and while physical reconstruction is underway, there are significant challenges in addressing poverty, employment, and psychosocial issues. The U.S. played a major role in the offensive against ISIS but does not plan to contribute financially to Iraq's rebuilding, focusing instead on Afghanistan. The Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq estimated the cost at over $88 billion. The success of Iraq's next generation depends on the investment in their reconstruction and well-being.

The Euphrates River, once the lifeblood of Mesopotamia, is facing a severe water crisis, with NASA and the World Resources Institute predicting extreme water stress by 2040. The river's decline is linked to dam construction in Turkey and Syria, reduced rainfall, and increased water usage. This crisis has historical and current political implications, as water shortages have contributed to conflicts such as the Syrian civil war. Iraq's dependence on the Euphrates for agriculture, drinking water, and electricity is at risk, with the river's flow reduced and quality diminished. The article explores the river's significance through visits to key Iraqi locations and interviews with experts, officials, and locals, revealing the environmental, economic, and social challenges Iraq faces as the Euphrates deteriorates.

Ami Yerewolo stands out as Mali's leading female rapper, gaining a continent-wide following with her high-energy performances and lyrics addressing sexism, injustice, and women's rights. Despite limited internet access in Mali, her music reaches many through unregistered file sharing and packed concerts. Ami's unique style and bold messages have earned her recognition, including being a Top 10 Finalist for the Radio French International Discovery Prize.

Afghan families in Germany face the threat of deportation despite the dangers they fled from in Afghanistan. Farida Ashraf and Alia Ghafoori, who escaped violence and threats, are among those seeking asylum. Germany, which initially welcomed refugees, is now considering deportations due to changing political winds and public sentiment. The German government and the EU have negotiated agreements to deport Afghan citizens, and asylum seekers must prove personal risk to obtain asylum. The situation is complicated by the varying levels of danger across Afghanistan and the political influence on asylum decisions. The fate of these families hangs on the outcome of their asylum interviews, while they struggle with the uncertainty and pressure to integrate.

Former Guantánamo detainees like Hussein al-Merfedy face significant challenges adapting to life in countries like Slovakia, where they struggle with isolation, cultural differences, and limited opportunities. Despite being cleared for release, these individuals live in a state of limbo, unable to return to their home countries due to security concerns. The U.S. Defense Department's efforts to close Guantánamo have led to detainees being relocated to unfamiliar lands, where they often feel like pariahs. The article highlights the personal struggles of these former detainees and the broader implications of their indefinite detention and relocation.

A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck central Italy, causing significant damage. Two Irish women live-tweeted their trip to England for an abortion, highlighting Ireland's restrictive abortion laws. U.S. senators are investigating a 400% price hike for EpiPens by Mylan. Republicans allege that Hillary Clinton traded favors for Clinton Foundation donations, though the State Department found no clear evidence. A labor board ruled that graduate-student assistants at private colleges can unionize. NASA located a missing $550 million spacecraft. The USDA will purchase $20 million worth of cheese to address a surplus and aid food banks. Stanford University banned hard liquor at on-campus parties following a high-profile sexual assault case.

Donald Trump's stance on abortion has evolved over the years, shifting from pro-choice in the late '90s to pro-life in recent years. He supports exceptions for the health of the woman, rape, and incest, and has called for defunding Planned Parenthood while acknowledging its important work. Trump has promised to appoint Supreme Court justices who oppose abortion and has indicated a desire to overturn the Affordable Care Act, which includes provisions for no-cost contraception and other reproductive health services.

Michelle Obama, in an interview with Variety, emphasizes the importance of female empowerment and representation in media. She reflects on how 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' influenced her perspective on marriage and career choices, advocating that marriage and having a family are options, not necessities, for women's happiness and fulfillment.

In Bekoji, Ethiopia, running offers young people, especially girls, a path to a better life amidst challenging socio-economic conditions. The Girls Gotta Run organization supports girls by balancing their athletic training with education, helping them avoid early marriage and stay in school. The program has positively impacted girls like Sarkalem Fikreh and Fatuma Noradine, who aspire to represent their country and achieve more than traditional paths would allow. The article highlights the importance of running in Ethiopian culture and the significant role of organizations like Girls Gotta Run in empowering young women.

The war in Yemen has severely impacted the Muhamashin, a marginalized group with African ancestral roots. Already facing societal discrimination and economic hardships, the Muhamashin have been further displaced by the Saudi-led coalition's bombing campaign against Houthi rebels. Many have lost their homes and lives, with some seeking refuge in informal shelters and schools.

On July 6, 2015, Saudi-led coalition airstrikes killed over 30 civilians in the village of Al Joob, Yemen, targeting a market and a mosque. The strikes, which lacked military targets, resulted in significant civilian casualties and property damage. Local residents, previously uninvolved in politics, now express strong opposition to the Saudi-led coalition. The air campaign, supported by U.S. intelligence, is criticized for its impact on civilians and its role in escalating local opposition.

The article delves into the complexities of Yemeni politics and the country's descent into crisis, exacerbated by foreign intervention, particularly by Saudi Arabia. It features insights from Yemeni political analyst Abdul-Ghani Al Iryani, who discusses the intricate relationships and historical context behind the current conflict, including the roles of key figures such as Ali Abdullah Saleh, Ali Mohsen Al Ahmar, and Abdul Majeed Al Zindani. The Saudi-led bombing campaign, described as committing war crimes, has had a significant impact on the Houthi-Saleh coalition's military capabilities, but it also risks further destabilizing Yemen. The article underscores the importance of a balanced power-sharing agreement to avoid a full-blown sectarian conflict and the dire humanitarian situation faced by the Yemeni people.

Photographer Alex Potter reflects on her experience living in Yemen since 2012, witnessing the country's descent into chaos amidst war. Initially a place of hope and vibrant culture, Yemen's political transition and external pressures have led to increased violence and instability. Despite the generosity and resilience of its people, the ongoing conflict, exacerbated by Saudi airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels, has resulted in civilian casualties and threatens to further escalate, potentially mirroring the wars in Syria, Iraq, and Libya.