Megan Eckert - Coach

Originally from Texas, Megan's first ultra was in 2017 shortly after beginning her running journey as an adult. She transplanted to New Mexico after a few years running due to the draw of the mountains and to teach. She's found enjoyment in multiple disciplines including mountain ultras, flat looped courses and track events. Her training philosophy is that running might be hard at times but it should always bring joy and passion into life.

 

2025 was a huge year where Megan's success went to a new level and she was voted number 3 in Ultra Running Magazine's World Ultra Runner of the Year. She won numerous ultras, including becoming World Champion in the 6-day event by setting the Women’s World Best (pending ratification) and achieving the American Women’s World Best in the Backyard Ultra.

 

Since 2022, Megan has been a high school cross country and track coach which was quickly followed in 2024 by beginning to work with adult athletes. She has experience coaching athletes to Boston Qualifying times, mountain ultras and multiday races on looped courses. Whatever your goal is, it’s never too late to pursue your opportunities and dreams. Just remember to have the most fun doing it. 

 

Noteworthy races:

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- The Barkley (attempt, 2026)

- World Championship 6 Jours de France (1st, 603 miles, 2025)

- Backyard Ultra (US Women's Best - 92 yards, 383 miles, 2025 and 1st Woman, 2024)

- Badwater 135 (2nd, 2025)

- Antelope Island 100 (2nd, 2025)

- Desert Solstice 24 hr (153 miles, 2024)

- Angeles Crest 100 (1st, 2024)

- Mogollon Monster 100 (1st, 2023)

- Bighorn 100 (3rd, 2022)

- Brazos Bend 100 (2nd, 2021)

- High Lonesome 100

- Sierra Vista 100k (1st, 2020)

- Sangre de Cristo 100 (1st, 2019)

- Habanero 100 (1st, 2018)

 

Qualifications/Experience:

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- USATF Level One Coaching Certification

- Safe Sport Certification 

- High school teacher

- Cross country and track coach