Shelby Houlihan began her 2026 season by running, and winning, two sub-ultra trail races on the past two consecutive weekends - generating a lot of interest, excitement, and questions about her entry into a new aspect of the sport.

At Women of Distance we're not just here for the hot results and latest news... we're here for the depth.

This is Shelby's story - her full story - in her own words.

In this episode, Lauren and Shelby revisit her full trajectory through the sport, from community mile-races as a child to a decorated career on the track. We discuss the details and experience of serving a four-year ban from the sport for anti-doping violations, the impact it had, and her growth throughout that time.

Shelby details her return to competition in 2025, how it influenced her curiosity about trail running, and what her reception and impression has been as she introduces herself to a broader view of the sport.

For more detail where we've missed any gaps, check out this short documentary from FloTrack on Shelby's story as well.

You can find and follow Shelby at  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/shelbo800

⁠⁠⁠You can find and follow Women of Distance at: ⁠linktr.ee/womenofdistance⁠

*This podcast is produced with support from ⁠Open Fuel⁠!

Fueling your needs, for your adventure - check out their Ultra Fuel (60g carbs, 500mg sodium) at ⁠openfuel.co⁠ . Passion Mango Tango is my current fav. And stay tuned for their gel mix, coming soon!

Use code: WOD for 20% off your order, every time!

Women of Distance is also kept caffeinated by our friends, and fellow trail runners, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.summit-roasters.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Use code WOD15 for 15% off your order every time!⁠⁠⁠ (Trolley House, medium roast, is my top choice.)

We'd love to see Women of Distance listeners supporting those, supporting us!