A 60-year-old ultrarunner from Michigan tragically died just hours into one of the nation’s most demanding endurance races… the Hardrock 100, held in the rugged mountains of southwest Colorado.
According to the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews were dispatched around 9:02 a.m. Friday after reports that a runner had collapsed on the Little Giant Trail, near Gold Lake, east of Silverton. Rescue teams, including Silverton Medical Rescue and a Flight For Life helicopter, rushed to the remote location, trekking a quarter-mile on foot after driving as close as possible.
Despite the swift response and ongoing CPR efforts by both race medics and emergency personnel, Elaine Stypula, a Detroit-area resident, was sadly pronounced dead at 10:27 a.m.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Elaine’s loved ones and the entire ultrarunning community,” said Keri Metzler, spokesperson for the San Juan County Coroner’s Office.
Stypula was participating in the Hardrock Hundred Endurance Run, a punishing 102.5-mile race known for its extreme elevation gains and technical terrain. Runners are given 48 hours to complete the course, which weaves through scenic but treacherous landscapes, including Handies Peak, towering at 14,048 feet.
The event begins and ends in Silverton, passing through iconic mountain towns like Lake City, Ouray, Telluride, and Ophir. With 13 major mountain passes and consistently high altitudes above 12,000 feet, the Hardrock 100 challenges even the most seasoned endurance athletes.
“Hardrock has long maintained a reputation for outstanding safety and race logistics,” said Tyler George, Director of Silverton Medical Rescue, commending the race’s partnership with the local community.
In response to the tragedy, race organizers announced that grief counselors will be made available at the Silverton Gymfor anyone affected.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of the physical and environmental challenges extreme endurance athletes face in pursuit of their goals.
