Courtney Dauwalter’s highly anticipated debut at the Cocodona 250 came to a sudden end Tuesday morning, as the ultrarunning icon exited the race at mile 108.
Why it matters
Dauwalter was widely seen as the sport’s biggest draw heading into this year’s Cocodona—a 256.5-mile multiday trail race through Arizona’s harshest terrain. Her participation marked a new chapter for a runner who has already won the Western States 100, Hardrock 100, and UTMB. This was her first attempt at the Cocodona distance.
What happened
After starting strong and leading overall at mile 100, Dauwalter dropped just eight miles later as she reached the outskirts of Prescott.
- Her crew posted to Instagram shortly after: “Well, shoot. Court finished her run this morning at mile 108. She’s doing fine and very thankful for all the cheers both in person and from afar.”
- The 40-year-old appeared calm and smiling in earlier footage, despite battling hail, rain, and shifting desert temperatures.
The bigger picture
While the exact reason for her withdrawal hasn’t been confirmed, Cocodona is notorious for breaking even the strongest runners.
- The course traverses deserts, canyons, pine forests, and summits, including 40,667 feet of elevation gain and the 9,301-foot Mount Elden near the finish.
- Only 91 percent of the course is on trail, with long stretches of rugged, remote terrain requiring complex logistical planning and pacing.
Where the race stands
As of Tuesday afternoon:
- Dan Green of West Virginia is in the lead at mile 129.
- Ryan Sandes of South Africa trails four miles behind in second.
- Michael Versteeg and Rachel Entrekin, past Cocodona champions, are fighting for third.
- Of the 309 starters, the majority remain on course. Runners have 125 hours total to finish.
What they’re saying
- Salomon, Dauwalter’s sponsor, commented: “So proud of you for taking a big swing at a new challenge! That’s where greatness is found.”
- Fans online praised her for showing up, pushing boundaries, and stepping into uncharted racing territory.
What’s next
Dauwalter hasn’t commented directly yet, but her return to the sport’s biggest stage is all but guaranteed. Whether she’ll target another Cocodona attempt—or pivot to new trails—is still unknown.
