American ultra-trail runner and writer who has quickly risen to the elite ranks of 100-mile racing. Known for his thoughtful race reports on his Substack 'Chasing Trail,' Olson made history in 2025 by winning Western States 100 in his second attempt, holding the lead for over 94 miles and finishing in 14:11:25. A Nike ACG athlete, he combines aggressive front-running tactics with resilience under pressure, demonstrated by his ability to hold off a strong field despite suffering from severe dehydration and stomach issues in the final 30 miles of his Western States victory. Father to Marshall, he balances elite performance with family life.
UTMB Index
924
Birth Date
December 14, 1995
Sponsor
Nike ACG, Precision Fuel & Hydration
Key Achievements
- Western States 100 Winner (2025) - 14:11:25
- Transgrancanaria Classic Winner (2025) - 12:17:25
- Grindstone 100K Winner (2023) - 8:54:43
- Javelina Jundred 31K Winner (2023) - 2:07:16
- Ultra-Trail Cape Town 100K Runner-up (2023) - 11:02:28
- MIUT 85 Runner-up (2024) - 9:02:57
- Western States 100 - 5th Place (2024) - 14:40:12
Career Highlights
- 2025: Historic Western States 100 victory in 14:11:25, leading from mile 6 to finish despite severe dehydration; won Transgrancanaria Classic in 12:17:25
- 2024: Strong performances including 5th at Western States 100 (14:40:12), 2nd at MIUT 85, 12th at CCC, and 3rd at Reto VULCANO 40K
- 2023: Breakthrough year with wins at Grindstone 100K (8:54:43), Javelina Jundred 31K (2:07:16), and 2nd place at Ultra-Trail Cape Town 100K
Notable Traits
- • Writer and content creator - publishes thoughtful race reports on Chasing Trail Substack
- • Member of Nike ACG trail team
- • Father - races with family support and often references son Marshall
- • Known for leading races from the front rather than tactical sit-and-kick racing
- • Strong performances in technical, mountainous terrain
- • Suffered and recovered from significant mid-race struggles at Western States 2025 to hold the win