Scholarship Application

2026 Trail Folx Scholarship

Trail Folx is proud to offer our inaugural scholarship for an aspiring trail runner aged 18–29. We believe everyone deserves access to the trails, and this scholarship is our commitment to removing the barriers that stand in the way.

We especially encourage applications from first-generation outdoor athletes and individuals from communities underrepresented in trail running.

○ Gear Package

○ Personal Coaching

○ Race Entries

Eligibility: Applicants must be between 18 and 29 years old at the time of application. Financial need, community identity, and passion for trail running are key selection factors — not competitive running history.

Personal Information

First Name *

Last Name *

Age *

Pronouns

Email Address *

Phone Number

City & State *

Trail Running Background

Years Running Trails *

Approximate Weekly Mileage

Favorite Trails or Races

Tell us where you love to run, or events you’ve participated in

How did you get started in trail running? *

Which race(s) would you enter with this scholarship, and why? *

Identity & Community

Trail Folx prioritizes applicants from communities underrepresented in trail running and first-generation outdoor athletes. You define what that means for you — we encourage you to share your story in your own words.

Do you identify as a first-generation trail runner or outdoor athlete? *

This means no parent or close family member participated in trail running or outdoor sport

Yes No Not sure

Do you identify as a member of a community underrepresented in trail running? *

Yes No Prefer not to say

If you’d like to share more about your identity or community background, please do (optional)

This could include race, ethnicity, disability, geographic isolation, socioeconomic background, immigration status, LGBTQ+ identity, or anything else meaningful to you

What has been your biggest barrier to participating in trail running? *

Financial Need

Approximate Annual Household Income *

Select the range that best describes your household

Under $30,000 $30,000 – $50,000 $50,000 – $75,000 $75,000+

Describe your financial situation *

In 150 words or less, tell us how financial barriers have impacted your ability to participate in trail running

~150 words max

Passion & Vision

What does trail running mean to you personally? *

Of the three scholarship components — gear, coaching, and race entries — which is most impactful for you and why? *

Where do you see yourself as a trail runner in 3 years? *

Trail Folx Mission Alignment

Why Trail Folx? *

In 250 words or less, tell us why this scholarship and this organization resonate with you

~250 words max

What does an inclusive trail community mean to you? *

How do you contribute to — or hope to contribute to — that vision?

Reference

Please provide one reference who can speak to your character and potential. This can be a coach, teacher, mentor, employer, or community member — not a family member.

Reference Name *

Relationship to You *

Reference Email *

Reference Phone

Agreements

I confirm that I am between 18 and 29 years old at the time of this application. * I confirm that all information provided in this application is accurate and truthful. * I agree to be contacted by Trail Folx regarding my application status and, if selected, scholarship details. * I give Trail Folx permission to use my name and story (with my review) in promotional materials if I am selected. (optional)

Before you submit: Review your answers and make sure all required fields (*) are complete. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. You will receive a confirmation email upon submission and a decision notification by September 1st.