Q&A with Allison Mercer – Team USA Ultra Runner
Allison Mercer is a highly accomplished masters-level American ultrarunner who has set records and placed impressively in major ultra races like 50‑mile, 50 km, 100 km world champs, and FKTs.
She brings energy and visibility to the ultrarunning community both on and off the trails, especially through her role at FastestKnownTime.com and her advocacy work with Trail Sisters. Notably, Allison helped lead the USA to a 3rd place finish at the IAU 100K World Championships 2024 in Bangaluru, India.
You will find Allison on Instagram at @onewomandanceparty
John O'Regan, Q1: You’ve previously represented Team USA in the 100km World Championships — also held in India. How does it feel to return, this time for the 50km distance?
It is such an honour; after representing the USA last year, I wanted to take see if I could do it in a shorter more competitive distance and was so excited to be selected again. After waiting so long to make the 100k team it's equally exciting to make it for the 50k team
Q2: What were some key takeaways from your 100km experience that are helping shape your preparation for this year's race?
Heat training! After racing in India, I don't take for granted the need for cooling and being used to warm temperatures. Also, the ability to go with the flow. Travelling internationally to race can be challenging so having an attitude to go with whatever comes your way is the key to success
Q3: How has your training evolved as you shift from the 100km to the 50km distance at the international level?
I feel like training for the 50k is just like the marathon where I don’t need to do heavy back-to-back long runs, rather dial in a fast finish. The 100k has more time on feet and being able to pick up the pace on tired legs
Q4: Can you give us a glimpse into your current training block? What does a typical week look like for you right now?
I am very lucky to live in a very runner friendly area where I see the same people every morning. My week consists of a speed workout, double day, hill strides, long run with a workout, and then followed up with a mid-long run the day after (9-13 miles). I run every day and enjoy it so much.
Q5: You juggle a demanding full-time career alongside elite-level training. How do you find balance between work, recovery, and performance?
It’s definitely a balance, but it is nice to have a distraction from just thinking about running ???? I also like using my runs to brainstorm things going on at work as a think tank session of sorts with friends
Q6: Are there any particular workouts or long runs that have been essential to your prep for this 50km?
Getting used to the 50k pace and making it feel “normal” is good mental and physical training where it comes second nature
Q7: Representing Team USA is a major accomplishment. Can you tell us about the moment you found out you were selected for the 50km team — what was that like?
I got an email that said CONGRATS you made it. I was so excited that one we had a 50k champs and 2 I had the honour to represent my country along a team with incredible runners
Q8: How are you preparing for the unique challenges of racing in India — whether it’s the travel, the climate, or the race environment itself?
Like I mentioned before, heat training and being able to handle the heat will be keep for success at the 50k champs. We are traveling early to adjust to the time difference and the fatigue of international travel
Q9: Do you have a specific race strategy in mind, or will you adjust based on how the race unfolds?
Definitely depends on the weather, race conditions and how others go out. It will also depend on the course layout
Q10: What motivates you to keep pushing forward in this sport, especially when training or racing gets tough?
I think just knowing we do this for fun and that I get to do this. Running has brought me so much joy and has helped me in so many ways (like introducing me to my husband) that even when it gets tough you just have to switch to the mentality of being able to do hard things
Q11: You’ve posted strong performances at a range of distances — from 40-milers to 100km. Do you have a favourite distance or type of race?
I wish I did, I actually had some PRs this summer in the 5k and 10k it’s more just about the community and the race than the distance that attracts me to certain races
Q12: Looking back at your ultra career so far, is there a moment or race that stands out as particularly meaningful?
I would say setting the American Masters record at Tunnel Hill proved that I could be competitive in this distance and can do anything with consistent training and belief in myself.
(5:57:12 for 50 Miles W40)
Q13: For runners who dream of representing their country or stepping up to the ultra-distance, what advice would you offer?
Don’t be intimidated by the distance! As you go further and further you realize running is more between the ears rather than the legs. Also don’t give up on your dreams, find out what it takes and go for it!
Q14: Once the 50km World Championships are behind you, do you already have your eyes set on any races or goals for the rest of the year or beyond?
I want to get back to trails! I’ve miss them so much and feel like can only help me in my training
Thank you, Allison, for sharing your insights, experiences, and contagious passion for the sport. It's inspiring to see how you balance high-level racing with a full life beyond the trails, all while lifting up the ultrarunning community. Best of luck at the IAU 50km World Championships and in all your adventures still to come — both on the road and back on the trails. We’ll be cheering you on!
Interview by John O’Regan
IAU Communication Committee
