These are small businesses, running groups, individuals, other trail running races/organizations, and whatever else helped shape me into the happy and healthy human I am today. My goal is to continue adding resources to this page that could help you or be passed along to others.
PRIME SPORTS INSTITUTE – Prime has been a game changer for my ultra marathon training and recovery. The NormaTec Boots alone are magic but Prime is so much more. “Whether you need an athletic trainer to provide immediate help with an injury, massage, physical therapy, or coaching, we offer comprehensive support for athletes and active people in the Bellingham Community. ” If you are struggling with an injury or want to improve your performance, Prime is worth a visit.
SMALL SHOP STRATEGIES – I found starting my own business overwhelming to say the least. Enter Rachel Bearbower. Rachel and I met years ago through the trail running community (surprise, surprise) and became fast friends. She also happens to be a passionate and kickass business woman. She went after her dream of starting her own business which helps other small businesses and non-profits. I cannot thank Rachel enough for holding my hand in the beginning phases of being a small business owner.
THE GINGER RUNNER – If you are new to trail running, this is a great way to get plugged in. From trail running films to shoe & gear reviews to a Monday night live show, Ethan Newberry and Kimberley Teshima deliver all content in a fun, friendly, and genuine way. I highly recommend becoming a Patreon member for as little as a $1 a month for several perks including access to the Patreon Crew Corner. It’s a very supportive and positive community who tunes in every Monday night – hope to see you there!
BOLDLY WENT – One of my favorite things to do after a trail adventure is recap the day with friends over a beer. How about an evening of outdoor storytelling over beers in a warm and welcoming environment? That’s exactly what Tim and Angel Mathis created with Boldly Went. From lives shows to podcasts, you can be inspired or have a good laugh by people’s stories. Check to see if there is a live show near you and or find a podcast that strikes your outdoor cord.
CHUCKANUT 50K– This was one of my first ultra marathons in the beautiful trails in Bellingham, WA. While bias of my hometown trails, I love how the community rallies around this event and race director Krissy Moehl. Krissy is passionate about giving back by donating funds to Girls On The Run, involving local companies, and being an eco-friendly race. Rich with history, this is a classic 50k that I highly recommend.
NORTHWEST DIRT CHURNERS – Want an updated calendar of PNW trail running events? What to learn about cool new spots to run or have a story you’d like to share? Northwest Dirt Churners is a great hub for searching for your next trail running race or adventure. Creator Shane Darden is also as nice as they come so reach out and say hi!
TRAIL SISTERS – I have found Trail Sisters to be an important platform for women in trail running and building community. Not only have I met other women to run with through Trail Sisters but there are numerous articles pertaining to women on the trails. From women’s safety to periods to equal rights in trail racing, there is no topic off limits. A huge thank you to founder Gina Lucrezi for going all in and sharing her passion with women all over the country.
RYAN THROWER PHOTOGRAPHY – If you want a storyteller for your trail running events, look no further. Ryan does a fantastic job of capturing runners before, during, and after a race. He can do it behind the lens or create a video. Ryan has either run, worked, or volunteered at a number of races so he has a true understanding of the trail racing scene . I also believe he was a stand-up comedian in another life, so you are bound to have a lot of fun when you team up with Ryan!
LARIAT CREATIVE– Where does one start creating a logo for their business? I was fortunate enough to be connected with Bradley James Lockhart, the creator of the city of Bellingham Flag, Bellingham City Seal, and countless other significant designs in the PNW. Bradley was wonderful to work with – he was professional, patient, personable. I plan to continue working with Bradley for future designs!
PACIFIC MULTISPORTS– Pacific Multisports has been a go-to scalable race event partner! They offer all the services needed to deliver a successful race event from online registration to race day timing and results. Their ala carte approach means you can pick and choose the services and support you need for your particular event. Their services include Timing, Registration, Awards, Traffic Control, Event Marketing, and Web Services. I was particularly impressed with their customer service for the Walla Trails virtual events in 2020. I am looking forward to what Pacific Multisports can offer to enhance future Walla Trails events!
TEAM RUNRUN – If you are looking for a running coach, Team RunRun makes it easy to find one based on running goals, personality, and budget! Team RunRun’s philosophy: everyone and anyone deserves to benefit from a running coach. With over 80+ coaches to choose from and over 1700 runners, TRR is working hard to fulfill that philosophy. We are excited to work directly with a few coaches local to Walla Trails events so runners are aware of great coaching options when training!