Jim Walmsley Returns to Talk Western States, Course Records, and the Next Era

Jim Walmsley returns to the Singletrack Podcast for a live, in-person conversation from our Olympic Valley, CA studio during Western States week—only this time, he’s not lining up to race. In this exclusive interview, Jim opens up about his decision to bow out of the 2025 Western States 100, offering insight into what went into that choice and where his mind and body are at as one of the most iconic runners in the sport. Whether it’s lingering fatigue, long-term goals, or a strategic reset, Jim shares what fans need to know. We also talk about the future: Will he be back at Western States in 2026 or beyond? What would it take to pull him back to the start line in Olympic Valley? And what does he still hope to accomplish at this race? In the second half of the conversation, Jim brings his deep course knowledge and competitive experience to bear in analyzing this year’s men’s field. Who are the biggest threats? What splits might signal a historic performance? Are we on the cusp of seeing another course record—or perhaps a completely new racing style emerge? Jim is not just a generational athlete, but also one of the sharpest minds in ultrarunning. This episode is part reflection, part analysis, and part look forward—an essential conversation for anyone invested in the past, present, and future of the Western States 100. Partners: Norda - check out the 005: the lightest, fastest, most stable trail racing shoe ever made ( https://nordarun.com/ ) Gorewear - use code SINGLETRACKPOD30 at checkout on their website to get 30% off your purchase. Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website ( https://www.naak.com/ ) to get 20% off your purchase. Raide - Making equipment for efficient human-powered movement in the mountains ( https://raideresearch.com/ ) Additional Links: Follow Brett on Instagram , Strava , Youtube Follow Finn on Instagram , Strava , Youtube Support the show