The Cocodona 250 is one of ultrarunning’s most brutal challenges, stretching 250 miles through the deserts and mountains of Arizona. With over 40,000 feet of climbing, intense heat, and sleep deprivation baked in, it demands not just physical strength but unwavering mental grit.

This year, even the strongest aren’t immune as the leaders hit halfway…

Courtney Dauwalter, widely regarded as one of the greatest ultrarunners of all time, has pulled out of the race around the 100-mile mark due to severe stomach issues. Her DNF has sent shockwaves through the women’s field and opened the door for a shake-up in the standings.

A mile of 250, 125 and 38 mile trail runs through the Arizona backcountry. Photo: Scott Rokis

Currently leading the women’s race and sitting an impressive third overall is Rachel Entrekin. She continues to run a smart, determined race through the punishing Arizona terrain, showing both consistency and resilience as the miles tick by.

At the front of the pack, Dan Green holds the overall lead. But South African ultrarunner Ryan Sandes is closing in fast. Sandes is making his debut at the 200+ mile distance, but with a storied background in races like Western States and Leadville, he’s more than capable of a late-stage surge.

With runners deep into the race and sleep deprivation beginning to take hold, the next stretch will be decisive. The desert doesn’t give much only takes and as the sun rises again, the fight to finish will grow even more intense.