First 50k Sisterhood
Break barriers, build community, and run together toward your first ultramarathon.
First 50k Sisterhood
Maybe you’ve thought about running an ultra, but told yourself:
- “I don’t know if I can run that far.”
- “I don’t know how to start training.”
- “I’m not fast enough.”
- “I don’t see women like me doing this.”
- “There isn’t anyone to train with.”
We hear you. And the First 50k Sisterhood exists to remove those barriers.
2026 could be the year you become an ultramarathoner.
Apply here by 1/10/26.The Mission
We’re breaking barriers that keep women from starting their ultrarunning journey. Selected applicants will receive race entry to the Wild Woman 50k on June 20, 2026, built-in community, gear and nutrition support, and training resources.
We’ll prepare 15 women to complete their first 50k — and inspire thousands more to believe it’s possible.
Break Barriers
Women make up, on average, just 10-30% of ultra fields. We’re changing that by removing financial, educational, and confidence barriers to entry.
Build Community
Train together. Share stories. Support each other. There’s power in numbers, and sisterhood makes us stronger.
Create Ripples
Each finisher inspires others. She mentors. She brings friends. She becomes the representation that makes the next woman believe she can do it, too.
What You’ll Receive
15 selected applicants will receive a complete support system designed to set you up for success in training for and competing in your first 50k.
- Trail Running Shoes
Best-in-class trail footwear from LOWA to carry you through training and race day - Training Plan
Customized programming to prepare you for 31 miles of adventure - Built-In Community
Private chat with 14 other women with the same goal - Coaching Support
Monthly community calls with expert guidance and Q&A - Gear & Nutrition
The tools you need for training and race day, from sponsors who believe in you - Storytelling + Fundraising Skills
Learn to share your journey and inspire others through authentic media content - Race Entry
$135 race entry to Wild Woman Trail Runs 50k is covered - Weekend Experience
- Free camping, post-run yoga, cold soak tubs, food from local vendors, and a full weekend of grassroots trail running retreat vibes
Get Out, Give Back
Your journey to your first ultra can create opportunities for the next generation of women trail runners. Each participant commits to raising $1,000 for The Cairn Project, funding scholarships that will help other women break into trail running and outdoor sports. Together, the cohort will raise $15,000 to remove barriers for future athletes.
Never fundraised before? No problem, it’s what we do every day at The Cairn Project! We’ll hook you up with fundraising tools, storytelling skills, and ongoing check-ins so you can feel proud about your fundraising campaign as you train for the race.
Why Wild Woman Trail Runs?
Wild Woman Trail Runs is the perfect race for your first ultra. Founded in 2012 as the first all-women’s marathon (trail or road), this race has been helping women push their limits for over a decade.
The Ideal First Ultra
The 50k course rolls over gentle hills through Pacific Northwest forest paradise at the base of Mt. Adams in Trout Lake, Washington. You’ll cross mountain streams, run through beautiful trails marked with care, and feel the energy of support at every aid station. There’s no cutoff time, so you can choose a pace that feels good to you.
A Weekend Retreat, Not Just a Race
Wild Woman is a full weekend experience celebrating women and trails:
- Free camping at the Mt. Adams base camp
- Post-run lunch with locally-sourced food
- Yoga sessions
- Cold soak tubs for recovery
- Community gatherings and connection
- Uplifting vibes from start to finish
100% Women, Zero Intimidation
From first-time trail runners to seasoned ultrarunners, Wild Woman welcomes all. This is where women take their first trail running steps with the support of a team. Where women embrace their inner wild woman and realize they have zero limits.
Through the First 50k Sisterhood, you’ll get ongoing support from Angie Lake, our Trailblazer Community Manager at The Cairn Project and also a co-director of Wild Woman Trail Runs. You’ll have insider support every step of the way!
Who Should Apply
We’re looking for women (ages 16+) who are ready to push their limits and share their journey. You don’t need to be fast. You do need to feel inspired to run a 50k and share your story with others.
Here’s what will strengthen your application:
- You’re aligned with our mission to close the gender gap in trail running.
- You’re willing to document your journey and share your story authentically through collaborative media.
- You have financial or other barriers that make ultrarunning feel out of reach.
- This program would be transformative for you, opening doors you thought were closed.
- You’ll fundraise $1,000 for The Cairn Project to support future scholarships.
SELECTION PROCESS
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of volunteers from The Cairn Project and Wild Woman Trail Runs. We’ll select 15 women who embody the spirit of this program and who will benefit most from the support and community.
The Trail Ahead
Dec 27, 2025
Applications Open
Jan 10, 2026
Applications Close
Jan 20, 2026
Cohort Announced
Feb 2026
Training + Group Calls Begin
Feb-May 2026
Monthly Coaching Calls & Storytelling
June 19-21 2026
Wild Woman Weekend, with Race Day on June 20th
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need running experience?
You should have a base level of running fitness (able to run or run/walk 3+ miles 3+ days/week), but you don’t need ultra experience. That’s the point — this is your FIRST 50k. We’ll provide the training plan and support to get you there.
What does the $1,000 fundraising commitment involve?
You’ll create a grassroots fundraising campaign (we’ll teach you how!) to raise $1,000 for The Cairn Project. This money supports future scholarships for women in outdoor sports. We’ll provide all the tools and coaching you need to succeed. It’s easier than it sounds, and our Trailblazers do this all the time!
Is travel included to Trout Lake, WA?
You’re responsible for your own travel to the race. However, camping at the venue is included, and the race is in a beautiful location in Trout Lake, WA, about 1.5 hours from Portland International Airport. The Columbia River Gorge is a multi-sport paradise, offering world-class hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and stunning scenery. With protected nature areas on both the Oregon and Washington sides of the Columbia River, it’s an outdoor wonderland, so consider making a long weekend adventure of it. Many participants carpool or coordinate travel together. We can assist cohort members in sharing transportation.
What’s expected of me in terms of storytelling?
We’ll teach you how to share your journey authentically through social media, blog posts, podcasts, visuals, or whatever medium feels right for you. The goal is to inspire other women and create visibility for our sponsors. We’ll provide coaching and tools, you just need to be willing to share your voice.
How competitive is the application process?
We’re looking for women who will benefit most from this program and who embody our mission. It’s not about being fast or experienced. It’s about your story, your commitment, and your potential to inspire others.
Is there a cutoff time for the 50k?
No! Wild Woman Trail Runs has no cutoff time. The focus is on finishing and supporting each other, not racing the clock. You can learn more at wildwomanmarathon.com.
Your First 50K Starts Here
Applications open December 27, 2025 and close on January 10, 2026. Selected cohort participants will be announced in late January.
Click here for the application.Join a sisterhood of women who refuse to let barriers stop them.
First 50K Sisterhood is a partnership program of The Cairn Project and Wild Woman Trail Runs.
Questions? Email [email protected].
