Madison, Ala. (WDNews) — An Alabama woman is making headlines after becoming the first female runner to win the Cocodona 250 ultramarathon overall while also setting a new course record.
Rachel Entrekin, a Madison native, crossed the finish line after completing the 253-mile race across Arizona in just over 56 hours. The demanding event takes runners through mountain trails, desert terrain and steep elevation changes from Black Canyon City to Flagstaff.
Entrekin’s finish not only secured the overall victory but also shattered the previous course record by more than two hours.
The 34-year-old previously won the women’s division of the race twice before earning the overall title this year. During the race, she reportedly slept very little and maintained a steady pace through the difficult conditions.
The Cocodona 250 is considered one of the toughest ultramarathons in the country due to its extreme distance, heat and elevation gain.
Following the win, Entrekin said she stayed motivated throughout the race by reminding herself that she was capable of winning the event outright.
Her historic finish is drawing attention nationwide and marking a major achievement for Alabama’s running community.
