Trail Running Prize Money Outpaces Drug Testing — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Trail running has seen significant prize money growth, but its drug-testing system lags behind. UTMB, a leading event, doubled its prize purse to 344,500 euros in 2024. Yet, its drug-testing program remains opaque, lacking transparency on the number and type of tests conducted.
Western States, another prestigious race, partners with the USADA but focuses on post-race urine tests. This approach misses athletes who might use performance-enhancing drugs during training. Elite trail runners face inconsistent testing, with only World Athletics events providing year-round monitoring. Read more racing coverage.
A study found that most ultramarathon organizers lack a formal anti-doping policy. Only a few follow external rules, and none have sanctioned athletes for doping. The lack of a unified testing system leaves elite trail runners with little oversight throughout the season. Related: Canadian runners face tough competition at World Athletics U20 Championships.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Trail Running Prize Money Outpaces Drug Testing?
Despite lucrative prize purses, trail running lacks a comprehensive drug-testing system. Trail running has seen significant prize money growth, but its drug-testing system lags behind. UTMB, a leading event, doubled its prize purse to 344,500 euros in 2024. Yet, its drug-testing program remains opaque, lacking transparency on the number and type of tests conducted.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 4, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated August 4, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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