Search

RUN247 / Running News / Trail Running News / “Your favourite runner’s favourite runner” – FANTASTIC footage as David Roche earns Golden Ticket for Western States

“Your favourite runner’s favourite runner” – FANTASTIC footage as David Roche earns Golden Ticket for Western States

Jonathan Turner
News Director
Published on

David Roche is renowned in trail running circles as pretty much the greatest coach out there.

It’s easier to compile a list of the top athletes he hasn’t coached rather than those he has.

Barkley Marathons legend John Kelly is just one of the many to benefit from Roche’s expertise.

But until this year there was just one thing missing from Roche’s resume – if indeed that mattered – and that was running a 100-mile race himself.

Advertisement

Record breaker

He’s helped so many to excel at the distance but his own bow didn’t come until August and what a debut that was.

For he rewrote the record books with an amazing performance at the Leadville 100, eclipsing what had long been thought of as an unbeatable mark – Matt Carpenter’s 15 hours, 42 minutes and 59 seconds which had stood since 2005.

And just a couple of months on he lined up for his second – the Javelina Jundred at the end of October.

Again the result was mind-blowing and there’s now some stunning footage of him in action thanks to the Freetrail YouTube channel and Ryan Thrower’s beautiful camerawork. It’s embedded below for you to enjoy.

Watch out for the aid station refuel too – and especially David taking time to turn around before heading back out in order to fist-bump his young son!

‘I’m in it to win it’

While watching him seemingly glide through the desert course at McDowell Mountain Regional Park, remind yourself the temperature was pushing very close to 100°F, a new high for the event.

Despite the searing heat he would go on to finish in 12 hours, 45 minutes, and four seconds, nearly 10 minutes ahead of the rest and within two minutes of another course record.

Indeed the heat prep was what made the performance even more special – see the X post below for lots more detail.

It was another masterclass so watch out for him at Western States next year – “I’m in it to win it” he says!

David Roche Javelina Jundred 2024 photo credit Aravaipa Running
David Roche in action at the Javelina Jundred [Photo credit: Aravaipa Running]
Jonathan Turner
Written by
Jonathan Turner
Jonathan Turner is News Director for both TRI247 and RUN247, and is accustomed to big-name interviews, breaking news stories and providing unrivalled coverage for endurance sports.  

Latest Running News

Abby Hall bib number 22 WEstern States 2025
‘Keep hoping and believing’ – Western States winner hopes her AMAZING injury comeback will inspire others
Kilian Jornet third at Western States 2025
‘The sport has grown, but it’s the same spirit’ – GOAT Kilian Jornet on Western States then and now
John Kelly start Barkley Marathons 2023 photo credit: Davidmillerphotography_ on Instagram
John Kelly’s Appalachian Trail FKT attempt is over – but the bigger goal is within sight
Abby Hall wins 2024 Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB 100km title [Photo credit: Tim Bardsley-Smith | UTMB]
Western States 100-mile Endurance Run 2025 women’s results: Abby Hall crowns fairytale comeback
Caleb Olson wins Western States 2025
Western States 100-mile Endurance Run 2025 men’s results: Life-changing win for Caleb Olson
trail running on your terms

Never miss out with our trail alerts & digest. Get a dose of adventure & inspiration with Boundless.

The 247 Group

The home of endurance sports

Share to...