New Short Film Shares The Secrets To Ultrarunner Karl Meltzer’s Success
HOKA ONE ONE has released a new short film called The Speedgoat about the life and career of prolific ultrarunner Karl Meltzer.
In celebration of their newest trail shoe, Hoka One One has released “The Speedgoat,” a short film about the life of ultrarunner Karl Meltzer. The 20-minute video takes viewers though Meltzer’s childhood, how he entered the sport and the pivotal moments in his career. Both the film title and the new shoe, The Speedgoat 2, are based on his nickname.
Meltzer’s ongoing career has been prolific. He has won more 100 milers than any other ultrarunner. He also holds the Appalachian Trail thru-hike speed record with a time of 45 days 22 hours and 38 minutes. Throughout “The Speedgoat,” he shares his perspective on running and how he achieved these accomplishments.
The film also dives into the creation of the Hoka Speedgoat trail shoe inspired by Meltzer. Although his past sponsor turned him down, Hoka enthusiastically embraced the idea of an all-terrain running shoe. He became the brand’s first sponsored athlete in 2010 and credits Hoka with revitalizing his career.
“I always dreamed of having a shoe called the Speedgoat out there,” Meltzer said in the film. “I didn’t necessarily think it would happen. Now we have a badass trail shoe that can handle any terrain.”
Filled with great storytelling and beautiful running scenery, “The Speedgoat” is a must-watch for any ultrarunning fan. Meltzer’s life perspective is unrelentingly positive. The joy he receives from running is at the heart of the film.
“I encourage everyone to find that passion, that happy place even when it gets tough and gnarly. That’s really part of the fun and when we have fun, it’s better than anything else in the world.”
View the entire film below.