Darren Thomas
Professional
runner
Writer
Coach
about Darren
I live in Reno, Nevada with my wife and my dog, Pike. We love running, camping, swimming in lakes, biking, gardening, eating with friends, and organizing community events. Everything outdoors is fair game! I currently work full time as a hydrogeologist, ensuring Nevada and California have clean water. I have been competing in trail running for over 10 years, in any distance from 5k to 100 miles. I really like to vary the distance and terrain of my training and racing, but really excel in mountain races from 25k-80k. After racing for over a decade, I have developed a passion for bringing the running community together and for helping athletes realize their potentials. I am the race director for Peavine Peak Hill Climb, a local trail race in Reno. Community gathering is very important for me!
I offer 1:1 coaching, individualized to each athlete. I am a UESCA-certified running coach, and have developed a coaching service thriving on constant communication and consistency.
Press and NEws
The Pikes Peak Marathon
Pikes Peak has been a constant in my life, shaping my summers and marking the passage of time through countless races. Over the years, I’ve chased glory on its slopes—sometimes finding it, sometimes falling short, but always returning. This latest race, a weather-shortened course in September’s fading light, left me questioning whether the magic is still there or if it's time to move on.
Black Canyon 100k
Join me on an epic journey through the highs, lows, heat, and grit of the Black Canyon 100k in Arizona's unforgiving desert. From pacing in 2024 to racing in 2025, I explore the intensifying world of ultrarunning. Feel the rush of the start, the struggle with dehydration, and the triumph of perseverance. Discover what went right, lessons learned, and the joy of savoring the moment.
The Ruby Crest Trail
The Ruby Mountains are one of Nevada’s best-known ranges, but they still hold plenty of mystery. Over multiple attempts on the Ruby Crest Trail, I battled storms, deep snow, and the unforgiving high desert, each time learning something new. These adventures weren’t just about setting records—they were about survival, discovery, and the wild pull of the unknown.
Why I Coach
I love to see athletes improve and love the process along the way. I believe consistency in training, as well as having fun during that training, can take an athlete to heights they could never imagine. I offer 1:1 personalized coaching through TrainingPeaks, with no limit to communication. Programs are tailored to each individual athlete and adjusted based on constant feedback.
UPCOMING RACES
UPCOMING RACES
Black Canyon 100k (Results)
February 8
Location
Mayer, Arizona
I'm so excited to kick off the year at one of the most competitive ultras in the country. I love the desert in the winter and I'm really excited to push my limits and go for a Golden Ticket to Western States
Broken Arrow VK and 46K
June 19
Location
Palisades, California
It's a classic race I've had a lot of success at the last few years, and it's local! Not only that, but it doubles as a qualifying race for the World Championships team in Spain in September.
Big Alta 28k
March 15
Location
Marin, California
This is a race only in its second year, that takes place in gorgeous Marin County, California. I ran the 50k last year and was impressed by the trails, the community, and the execution of the race. I am excited to rip around the shorter course and enjoy the California sunshine!
Gorge Waterfalls 100k
or Canyons 100k
TBD
Location TBD
Last year I showed up to the Gorge Waterfalls 100k and had to pull the plug with an achilles issue right before it started. I enjoyed the trip and got to ski Mt. Hood the next day, but would still love to run the course. This year, the race is a qualifier for the World Championships Team and is highly competitive.
Canyons 100k is in my backyard and on the historic Western States 100 course. It's on some of my favorite trails and has quite a bit more climbing than Black Canyon and Gorge Waterfalls, which suits my strengths a little more. It's also another chance at a Golden Ticket for Western States.
I am torn between these two races and will decide which one I will go to as March progresses. My body and my stoke level will decide!
Run Coaching
Let’s run, together.
1:1 coaching
1:1 Coaching includes weekly check-ins, customized training schedules that adapt to your progress and availability, and exclusive access to our expanding library of online classes and training courses.