Pinnacle 12 Liter Hydration Race Vest

Established in 1992, Hardrock 100 is an annual 102.5-mile ultramarathon held in the San Juan Range of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. With an average elevation of 11,00 feet, Hardrock is known for its extreme elevation, exposing competitors to several micro climates through the duration of the event. This past July, professional ultramarathon runner Michael Wardian completed the legendary course for the fifth time at 51 years old.

On average, entrants finish Hardrock in approximately 41 hours-however, with inspiring resilience and his Nathan Pinnacle 12L Vest, Wardian crossed the finish line in 34:33:15, placing 24^th overall. Alongside most Hardrock racers, Wardian contends the most challenging segment this time around was Handies Peak-the course’s highest point, which reaches 14,048 feet. After conquering the peak, Wardian soared from 60^th place to the top 25.

Despite missing two turns—one of which added a few miles to his journey—Wardian bounced back and clinched the last half mile of the race with a sub-six-minute pace. Finishing in under 35 hours, Wardian’s time is beyond remarkable, especially for his age division. At 51, Wardian was the second athlete over 50 to complete the 2025 Hardrock course.

But the race alone is not what makes Hardrock 100 so special, according to Wardian. “I love the Hardrock community…it feels like coming home,” he says. After nearly two days of running, hiking, and a grueling fight against altitude, Wardian concluded his ultra by volunteering at the finish line aid station. He also deeply appreciates the Southern Colorado towns that graciously host the event each year—i.e., Silverton, Lake City, Ouray, and Telluride.

However, the incredible Nathan athlete’s relationship with Hardrock does not end here. Grateful and eager, Wardian is appreciative for the opportunity to compete and is looking toward the future: “I feel so fortunate to have gotten to race at Hardrock again, and I hope I can get five more finishes.”