Rachel Entrekin made history at the 2026 Cocodona 250 by winning the race outright, a remarkable achievement as the first woman to do so. This year’s race took place in Flagstaff, Arizona, showcasing her exceptional skills and determination.
Record-Breaking Performance
Entrekin, a 34-year-old ultrarunner from Birmingham, Alabama, completed the grueling 253-mile race in a stunning time of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 48 seconds. This new overall course record shattered the previous mark of 58 hours, 47 minutes, and 18 seconds, established in 2025.
Past Successes
In her earlier participation, Entrekin won the women’s race in 2024 with an overall finish in 11th place, clocking in at 73 hours, 31 minutes, and 25 seconds. The following year, she not only defended her women’s title but also set a new women’s course record at 63 hours, 50 minutes, and 55 seconds.
Strategic Racing
During the 2026 race, Entrekin took control around mile 50. For over 24 hours, she maintained a pace that kept her nearly two miles ahead of the men’s leader, Kilian Korth. Utilizing cooler, cloudy weather, she executed her strategy brilliantly, making minimal stops at aid stations, often taking just five to ten minutes to refuel.
Support and Resilience
Her race was bolstered by a supportive six-person crew, including her parents, Carol and Robin. Entrekin shared her experience, emphasizing her focus on positivity throughout the race, stating, “You can choose your attitude, I’ve learned, so I’d rather choose to be positive.”
Kilian Korth: Men’s Champion
Kilian Korth, aged 30, finished as the men’s champion, securing second overall with a time of 57 hours, 28 minutes, and 36 seconds. After facing challenges in previous Cocodona races, including two DNF (Did Not Finish) instances, Korth overcame mental and physical hurdles this year to achieve his podium finish.
Race Dynamics and Conditions
- Start Date: May 4, 2026
- Total Distance: 253 miles
- Overall Elevation Gain: 38,791 feet
This year’s race also had unfortunate moments, including a medical emergency that led to the death of a participant. Race organizers expressed empathy and provided support to those affected.
Overall, the 2026 Cocodona 250 highlighted the extraordinary talents of ultrarunners, especially Entrekin, whose groundbreaking victory and record-setting time will inspire future generations in the sport.
