For Tucker Glenn, running once felt like something to endure rather than enjoy. In May 2022, a friend convinced him to join a trail run in the sweltering Mid-South heat. “We did a six-mile run that day, and the rest is history,” Tucker recalled. What started as a casual cardio routine quickly turned into a full-fledged passion, and less than two years later, Tucker was lining up to run ultramarathons.
A SURPRISING START
Tucker’s first race was the 2023 Sylamore 25K in Arkansas. He battled a persistent Achilles injury for months leading up to the race. “I had a lot of anxiety and fear that I wouldn’t be able to run,” he admitted.
But when race day came, he found himself in what he described as decent shape and completed the race surrounded by friends. “Crossing that finish line was incredibly satisfying,” Tucker said. However, even then, the thought of running ultra-distances had not crossed his mind.
That would change soon enough. After the Sylamore 25K, Tucker began pushing his limits, finding that trail running offered physical and mental rewards. Over time, it became a mental reset, a way to find clarity and strength.
TRAINING FOR GREATNESS
Now, Tucker runs several times weekly, integrating strength training sessions to maintain balance in his fitness routine. His favorite workout is a long Saturday morning run, a tradition he shares with friends. “It’s a great time to catch up with each other, talk about our weeks, and simply enjoy one another’s company,” he said.
For Tucker, these runs are about building community and staying connected with those who share his passion.
“THIS IS MY FAVORITE PART OF THE ULTRA RUNNING COMMUNITY. WE ALL HAVE EACH OTHER’S BACK.”
Under the guidance of coach Kevin Leathers from Can’t Stop Endurance, Tucker’s training is structured yet flexible. With a busy work schedule, he has learned to balance running with life’s other demands. Whether running in the early mornings before work or squeezing in a lunchtime jog near his office, Tucker adapts his routine to fit his lifestyle.
A significant part of his success can be attributed to nutrition and recovery. On a 3,000-calorie-a-day diet, Tucker relies on Spork & Knife, a locally-owned meal prep service. He emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery, recognizing that sleep, nutrition, and hydration are essential to his development. “If I don’t focus on these areas, my performance suffers,” he noted.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES AND PUSHING BOUNDARIES
One of Tucker’s most memorable races was the Canyons 100K in Auburn, California, in April 2024. He arrived at the race feeling strong and ready, but he encountered a new challenge midway through. “I’ve never dealt with blisters before, so I didn’t think much of them at first,” Tucker said. But by the halfway point, the blisters had grown to the size of silver dollars, and the pain became almost unbearable. “The medic even asked if I wanted to continue, which surprised me because dropping out wasn’t an option in my mind.”
Despite the pain and exhaustion, Tucker pressed on. Fellow runners, including one from Australia, offered encouragement that helped him keep going. “This is my favorite part of the ultra-running community. We all have each other’s back,” he shared. The race was grueling, but Tucker crossed the finish line with a time of 19:53:00, earning a Western States qualifier with just seven minutes to spare. “Looking back, I’m so proud that I didn’t quit, even when it got tough,” he reflected.
LOOKING AHEAD
Having completed his first 100-miler in August 2024, Tucker is already eyeing new challenges for the coming year. He recently participated in his first Ragnar Relay at the Bourbon Chase in Kentucky and is gearing up for the Walking Tall 25K.
In 2025, Tucker’s goals are set high. He’s registered for the Tahoe 200, with dreams of qualifying for the Western States 100 or perhaps taking on the Leadville 100. “I’ll take a few months to recover and assess my goals, but I’m excited to see what’s next,” he said.
For someone who once saw running as a chore, Tucker Glenn has embraced the sport in a way that few do, finding strength, community, and a sense of accomplishment that drives him forward.
By Beth Wilson
Photo by Tindall Stephens