Elite trail & ultra runner • Marathoner • Educator
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Anthony Costales
- Date of Birth:
- Hometown: Fairfield, California (USA)
- Residence: Salt Lake City, Utah (USA)
- Education: B.S. Kinesiology, California State University–Chico (2013)
- Occupation: Junior-high physical education teacher & professional trail/ultra runner
- Family: Married to Katie; one daughter
- Sport: Trail Running / Ultra-distance
Biography
Anthony Costales is an American distance runner known for combining road-marathon speed with technical mountain ability. After a decorated collegiate career at Chico State, he settled in Utah, balancing teaching and family life with elite-level training and racing across the U.S. and internationally.
Collegiate & Early Career
- Standout for Chico State (cross country & track), earning All-Region honors and conference titles.
- NCAA qualifier at 10,000 m (2012); developed strong 5K/10K range before moving to longer distances.
- Transitioned to the marathon post-college, later qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials.
Road & Marathon Progression
Costales translated his track background into marathon success, using aerobic depth and durability as a foundation for his eventual move to rugged trail ultras. His road pedigree underpins consistent pacing and efficiency over long mountain courses.
Selected Trail & Ultra Results
| 2023 | Western States 100 — 3rd overall |
| 2023 | Black Canyon 100K — Winner |
| 2021 | Canyons 100K — Winner (Golden Ticket) |
| 2018 | Way Too Cool 50K — Winner |
| 2018 | Moab Red Hot 55K — Winner (Course Record) |
| 2018 | USATF Marathon Trail Championships — Champion |
| 2018 | World Long Distance Mountain Running Championships — 10th |
Honors & Recognition
- Ranked #6 in UltraRunning Magazine’s UltraRunner of the Year voting (2021).
Training & Philosophy
Costales emphasizes year-round strength and mobility, layering marathon-derived aerobic conditioning with climbing and downhill resilience. His approach prioritizes consistency, smart volume, and balance with work and family.