How is this even possible I hear you ask? And, more importantly, how do you ensure the dog’s health and well-being is not put at risk? Well, we’re about to find out from Evan who is with us today to talk about all of this, including his background in running and his special partnership with Nova.
Beautiful photos by: Lucas Cullen @_lucascullen and Tommy DeWitt @tommydewitt_
Meet Evan: Ultra-Runner, Coach, and the lovely Nova
Evan has been immersed in sport all his life, from competitive soccer to off-road triathlons and ultra-distance trail races. After discovering a natural talent for long-distance running, he quickly progressed from 30K to 300-mile events. His career in emergency services (as an air ambulance and EMS dispatcher) gave him a strong foundation in resilience, but also brought its own mental health challenges.
In recent years, Evan shifted from crisis response to coaching and helping others tackle endurance goals, many with dogs of their own. It turns out that ultra-running attracts a community of dog lovers, too.
“It’s funny I didn’t plan to coach runners with dogs. But it turns out, you attract your tribe.”
Enter Nova: A Supercharged Vizsla with a Gentle Soul
Nova, now seven, joined Evan’s family as a puppy — carefully selected for her gentle, child-friendly temperament. From their first 14-hour road trip home, Nova bonded with Evan over food, road miles, and quiet companionship. She was raised on trails, gradually introduced to longer runs, and has now completed over 15 ultra-distance efforts (50km+), including a massive 75-mile push at Orcas Island 100 in the US.
“She was leading for 90% of the race. Still wagging her tail. She just loves the job.”
Their bond? Unshakable. Nova isn’t just Evan’s running partner, she’s his constant companion.
Training Together: Building an Ultra-Dog, One Step at a Time
Evan and Nova train up to five times a week, covering 70-100km, with careful attention to Nova’s rest and recovery. Their weekly routine includes long mountain runs, recovery outings, and plenty of frisbee play. Unlike many high-strung breeds, Nova has a distinct “off switch” when it’s rest time, she’s flat out, recharging for the next adventure.
Evan is the first to stress: this didn’t happen overnight. They’ve spent years building endurance, with a laser focus on health, rest, and gradual exposure.
“You have to know your dog’s limits and protect them, always. That trust is everything.”
Tackling 75 Miles Together
The Orcas Island 100 wasn’t just a test of endurance; it was a careful, deeply researched adventure. With a cool climate, soft terrain, regular aid stations, and planned rests, it was the perfect environment to let Nova shine.
They completed 75 miles side by side, stopping regularly to eat, nap, and recover. Nova slept in a “donut bed” between loops and ran in a Non-stop Freemotion harness – as well as a rain coat o to stay dry and visible. The result? No injuries. No chafing. Just a wagging tail and another unforgettable memory.
“There was never a ‘must finish’ mindset. It wasn’t about ego. It was about us, together.”
Nutrition, Gear, and Care
Nova is raw-fed and trained like a pro athlete. For long races, her usual meals are broken into smaller portions and spaced throughout the event. Bone broth, rest breaks, and careful pacing are key. Evan even consulted a sled dog expert for advice after drawing parallels between long-distance mushers and Canicross athletes.
“Dogs don’t know the distance you’ve planned. They just trust you. You owe them everything in return.”
Which kit does Nova run in? It is the Non-stop Freemotion harness, which has kept Nova comfortable for years, even through some of the most extreme runs on record.
Ultra-Running for Mental Health
Evan’s journey hasn’t just been about physical milestones. After stepping away from his career due to burnout and trauma, ultra-running, and running with Nova, became a form of healing.
“Running helps. But it’s not therapy. It can’t fix the root causes. Talking to someone is key.”
He now co-hosts the Enduring Minds podcast, opening up conversations about mental health, masculinity, and endurance sport. His message is clear: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to be.
What’s Next for Evan & Nova?
While Nova is now approaching her eighth birthday, her journey isn’t over. There are no more 100-mile ambitions, but there may still be shorter ultras ahead. For Evan, it’s not about racing anymore. It’s about joy, movement, and making the most of every day they get to run together.
“I know the day will come when she doesn’t want to run anymore. So I’m soaking up every moment.”
Thinking of Running Longer with Your Dog?
Evan’s advice for anyone considering going beyond 5K or 10K with their dog?
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Respect the breed – not every dog is built for endurance.
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Talk to your vet – especially if considering longer distances.
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Choose the right conditions – soft terrain, cool temps, access to water.
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Fuel both of you – food, hydration, and electrolytes matter.
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Know when to stop – your dog’s well-being always comes first.
Watch Their Story
A documentary about Evan and Nova’s Orcas Island adventure launches 15th May 2025. It promises to be the dog-human running film of the year and a heartfelt look at what’s possible when two souls move in sync, one stride at a time.
Follow Evan: @ultrabirch
Watch the trailer (coming soon): ultrabirch.com
See our YouTube Podcast below with a guest appearance from Nova.
