Dear ,

Congratulations on your entry into the 2020 Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run. With over 6600 applicants this year, of course it goes without saying that you are in a very select group. Whether it took you one or eight years to get into the race I hope you enjoy the journey to Squaw as it is all part of the experience.

This is the first of several "Runner Update" emails you will receive from me leading up to the pre-race meeting on Friday, June 26 up at Squaw Valley. These are important updates that will also be posted to the  WSER website . To stay up on the latest news you may also wish to follow us on Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Instagram .


Participant Guide
Please read the  online participant guide  on our website which contains information that you must be familiar with, including medical and other risks; performance, pacer and crew rules; aid station and drop bag information; race week agenda; lodging info; and a course description. Please read it carefully.

While you're on the web site, be sure to check out the new  maps and profile .
Wait List and Refunds
As we have since 2017, we are using a wait list to ensure we start the allowed 369 runners. You can view the wait list  here .

If you must withdraw for any reason, the next person on the wait list will be given the opportunity to take your place on the start line. We will refund part of your entry fee if you withdraw:

75% if you withdraw by May 1, 2018
50% between May 2 and June 9, 2018
25% between June 10 and June 20, 2018
no refund after June 20, 2018
Service Requirement


Since 1998, WSER has required eight (8) hours of volunteer service by each entrant, no matter where you live. The WSER Board has a strong preference that runners perform their service in support of an ultra or doing trail work on a trail used in an ultra, but will accept service provided to any organized running event or trail work done on any trail commonly used by runners. We do not want your completed form until you are selected from the wait list. When that happens please submit the SR form to us either by email or snail mail.
Training Runs
There are training runs scheduled during  Memorial Day weekend on three successive days over  the final 70 miles. Each one is point to point, run in the direction you will run on race day. These runs are open to anybody, so your pacers or friends may join you. If you are planning on doing them, sign up early as each of them fill to capacity.
Western States Store and WSER Logo
Branded merchandise is available at the  WS Store . It is always available online and will be physically setup at Squaw Valley before the race.

If you are planning on making your own crew shirts, you may use the WSER logo as long as you don't sell the shirts. Please respect our  intellectual property . 

International Runners
If you are traveling from overseas be sure to check out the services we provide to international runners to help ease the extra stress of long travel, language and unfamiliarity.


If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.
 Train smart.

Craig Thornley, Race Director