Each year a few races attract a large number of elite runners. In this analysis, we have examined the races in which those who received votes for Runner of the Year competed. Giving the runners of the year 40 points, the runners-up 39 points, and so on, we have devised a system for determining which races had the most competitive fields. (Note that this analysis does not include foreign runners who are not eligible for runner of the year.)
| Women | # of Runners | Points |
| Western States | 12 | 402 |
| Lake Sonoma | 8 | 215 |
| TNF Endurance Challenge – SF | 6 | 166 |
| Way Too Cool | 6 | 155 |
| Bandera | 4 | 133 |
| Black Canyon | 2 | 72 |
| Pikes Peak Ultra | 2 | 58 |
| Speedgoat | 3 | 55 |
| Red Devil Challenge | 2 | 53 |
| Desert Solstice | 2 | 43 |
| Men | # of Runners | Points |
| Western States | 10 | 339 |
| Bandera | 5 | 112 |
| Lake Sonoma | 4 | 107 |
| Desert Solstice | 3 | 100 |
| Santa Barbara Nine Trails | 3 | 99 |
| Black Canyon | 3 | 86 |
| JFK50 | 3 | 83 |
| Project X Invitational | 2 | 77 |
| Six Days in the Dome | 2 | 73 |
| Run Rabbit Run | 2 | 61 |