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Max Jolliffe joins the show to talk about his thrilling come-from-behind win at last week's Moab 240, his journey to sobriety, and the dedication and intensity that has contributed to his rapid ascension in the ultrarunning world.

Timestamps:

• 06:56 Preparing for Moab 240
• 10:05 Overcoming Adversity in TDS
• 14:02 The Influence of Jesse Haynes
• 16:53 The Beauty of the Moab Course
• 19:57 The Hail Mary Moment at Mile 200
• 33:37 The Role of Pacers in Ultra Running
• 36:20 The Competitive Dynamics of the Race
• 38:04 Navigating Extreme Conditions
• 42:12 Crossing the Finish Line: Emotions and Reflections
• 44:44 Future Aspirations in Ultra Running
• 47:19 Personal Growth and Transformation
• 56:24 Harnessing Addictive Personalities for Success
• 01:03:18 Journey to Sobriety 
• 01:08:15 The Shift from Skating to Running
• 01:13:32 Cultural Crossovers: Surfing, Skating, and Running
• 01:18:48 Building a Career in Apparel Design
  
  

Partners:

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Links:

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• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s Javelina Jundred.

Timestamps:

• (0:00) - course strategy, weather conditions, historical performance data, competitive race context
• (15:40) - women's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions
• (49:09) - men's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions

Partners:

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Links:

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• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Jason Schlarb is a professional athlete sponsored by Norda and Ultimate Direction, based in Durango, CO.

If American ultrarunning had All-Decade teams, Jason would undoubtedly be a starter for the 2010s, boasting impressive victories at races like Hardrock and Run Rabbit Run, along with a top-five finish at UTMB, among numerous other accolades.

Even in his 40s, Jason continues to deliver outstanding performances. Earlier this year, he was the top American finisher at both TDS and Hardrock, placing 9th and 3rd, respectively.

In this conversation, we cover a wide range of topics in a wonderfully organic way. If you enjoyed our episodes with Michael Versteeg or Anton Krupicka earlier this year, you'll find this discussion similarly laid-back yet rich in insights.

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.
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• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.

 
Related Episodes:

• #340 - The Return of Anton Krupicka
• #324 - Scott Jurek | Western States 100 Reflections, Ultrarunning History, Next Steps
• #313 - Michael Versteeg | Reflections On The Soul Of Ultrarunning

Additional Links:

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• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Last month, Tara Dower achieved a monumental fastest-known time on the Appalachian Trail. In a follow-up interview, she emphasized the importance of teamwork in this accomplishment. To delve deeper into that aspect, we spoke with her Crew Chief, Rascal.

In our conversation, we explore the learning curve of supporting multi-week efforts, the physical and emotional challenges involved, and what a typical crew stop and pacing section entailed. We also discuss various logistical considerations and Rascal's advice for future crew teams taking on this ambitious project, along with other insightful topics!

Timestamps:

• (1:47) - Rascal's thru-hiking and crewing background
• (6:16) - the learning curve to crewing this FKT attempt
• (13:27) - mental aspects of crewing
• (19:57) - criticism of the style
• (23:37) - what crew stop execution looked like 
• (31:42) - how taxing this was on the crew
• (41:45) - miscellaneous logistical considerations
• (50:14) - future storytelling about this achievement
• (53:43) - advice to future crew teams, next steps for Rascal

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
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• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.

 
Related Episodes:

• #339 - How Tara Dower Shattered The Appalachian Trail Record
• #335 - Will Peterson | Inside The Fastest Known Time On Vermont’s Long Trail
• #329 - Exploring Appalachian Trail History and Endurance Records with Warren Doyle
• #284 - Jennifer Pharr Davis | Appalachian Trail Reflections, State of FKTs, Pursuits of Endurance

Additional Links:

• Follow Rascal on Instagram
• Follow Tara on Instagram, YouTube, Website, Girls On The Run
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Brett Hornig joins the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. We talk about some personal life updates before offering up our takes on Tara Dower's FKT on the Appalachian Trail, the Camille Herron Wikipedia Controversy, Mammoth Trail Fest, and "Way-Too-Early" Western States 100 Picks.
 
 
 Timestamps:

• (8:55) - Tara Dower Appalachian Trail Record
• (50:25) - Camille Herron Wikipedia Controversy
• (82:19) - Mammoth Trail Fest
• (95:40) - Way Too Early Western States 100 Picks
• (100:26) - Coolest Stuff We Found On The Internet This Week

 Sponsors:

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• Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

 Additional Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Anton Krupicka is back on the podcast! Few athletes in ultrarunning generate as much excitement as Anton, and he’s returned with a bang—recently setting a fastest known time on the iconic LA Freeway route and securing second place finish at the Grindstone 100 this past weekend.

Beyond his impressive athletic achievements, which notably helped shape the ultrarunning culture in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Anton is a thoughtful and generous conversationalist. He shares plenty of insights in this episode.

While the FKT and race results provide a backdrop, we also dive deeper into nostalgic ultrarunning memories (his friendships with Scott Jurek, Geoff Roes, and Kyle Skaggs), engaging discussions on philosophy (athlete personalities and bike culture), current events (Leadville 100), and his aspirations (UTMB and Hardrock goals). 

Timestamps:

• (1:30) - LA Freeway 
• (19:04) - Grindstone Performance, UTMB + Hardrock Goals
• (39:00) - Leadville 100, Matt Carpenter
• (57:36) - The Kids Are Alright
• (67:58) - New Balance, La Sportiva Stories
• (76:14) - Scott Jurek Stories
• (80:37) - Bike Culture
• (91:58) - Kyle Skaggs Stories

Related Episodes:

• #157 - Anton Krupicka | 2022 Ultra Trail Cape Town Pre-Race Interview
• #51 - Anton Krupicka | Trail Running Culture, Pro Athlete Lifestyle, Influence, Self-Reflection

Partners:

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• Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.
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Additional Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Anton on Instagram, Strava, Substack

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This past Saturday night at 11:53 PM, Tara Dower set the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail in 40 days 18 hours 5 minutes, besting Karel Sabbe's 2018 mark by 13 hours and 32 minutes.

Starting August 12th at 5:47 AM, Dower averaged 54+ miles per day over 2,197.4 miles of rugged and relentless terrain from Maine to Georgia to set the mark.

In masterfully riding a fine line of passion, grit, faith, and resourcefulness, Tara and her crew have set a new standard on this trail.

I said this on an Instagram post shortly after the news broke, but I’ll say it here as well - it’s easy to get caught up in the moment, especially in a year that has seen the likes of the first female Barkley finisher, a UTMB course record, and a Hardrock course record - but is this the female performance of the year? Or better yet, is this the overall performance of the year regardless of gender? This is an amazing time to be in the sport.

With all that said, we were fortunate to have Tara on the podcast shortly after her feat. In this conversation, we cover topics all about the Appalachian Trail record around her background, preparation, strategy, execution, mindset, and processing of this monumental achievement.

If you want more long-distance hiking trail or Appalachian Trail trail-specific content, be sure to check out our interviews with Will Peterson, Warren Doyle, and Jennifer Pharr Davis from the past year. Hope you enjoy this one!

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - How Tara Is Feeling Post-Appalachian Trail FKT, Expressions of Gratitude
• 05:06 - Worry About Falling Too Far Behind Karel Sabbe's Mark Early On
• 14:00 - Tara's Thru-Hiking And Ultrarunning Background
• 21:21 - Preparation For The Appalachian Trail Record
• 33:00 - Appalachian Trail FKT Strategy
• 45:23 - Daily Schedule
• 57:59 - Highlights From Various Sections Of The Appalachian Trail 
• 68:15 - Making A Statement For Female Athletes, Mindset, Launching Points
  
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Related Episodes:

• #335 - Will Peterson | Inside The Fastest Known Time On Vermont’s Long Trail
• #329 - Exploring Appalachian Trail History and Endurance Records with Warren Doyle
• #284 - Jennifer Pharr Davis | Appalachian Trail Reflections, State of FKTs, Pursuits of Endurance

Additional Links:

• Follow Tara on Instagram, YouTube, Website, Girls On The Run
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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After reading her book, "The Longest Race: Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike's Elite Running Team", I was eager to connect with Kara Goucher for an in-depth conversation.

For those less familiar with the road running scene, Kara was one of the top American distance runners of the 2000s and 2010s, achieving podium finishes at prestigious events like the Boston and New York City Marathons, as well as the 2012 Olympic Marathon Trials. She also claimed victory at the US Half Marathon Championships the same year, among numerous other accolades. In 2004, she joined the Nike Oregon Project, led by distance running legend Alberto Salazar. Behind the scenes, however, Salazar was pushing the boundaries of anti-doping regulations while fostering a toxic culture of misogyny and athlete abuse. Despite the risk of losing everything and facing immense pressure, Kara found the courage to speak out and successfully advocate for meaningful change.

In our discussion, we explore various themes from The Longest Race, and we also discuss current events, including her podcast with Des Linden - "Nobody Asked Us", and the challenges with today’s anti-doping investigative models.

Before we dive in, please note that this episode is a crossover from my guest-hosting stint on the Run To The Top podcast earlier this spring. Be sure to check out Run To The Top for their excellent coaching resources and content here: https://runnersconnect.net/running-podcast/

Timestamps:

02:00 Introduction and Podcasting, Creative Freedom and Speaking Freely
10:05 Lack of Change at Nike, Perception of Nike and Possibility for Change
13:39 Support for Athletes and Career Transitions, Effects of Pregnancy Clause
19:36 Impact on Career and Olympic Trials, Taking Responsibility and Speaking Up
23:32 The Appeal of the Oregon Project, The Motivational Climate of the Group
25:31 Staying Silent in an Abusive System, The Charisma of Alberto Salazar
34:38 Healing and Reconciliation, Moving On and Confronting the Past, Trusting in the Sport
38:40 The Challenge of Catching Dopers, Need for an Investigative Model, Future of Anti-Doping

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
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Additional Links:

• Check out RunnersConnect
• Follow Kara on Instagram, Podcast, Book
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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In this episode, I'm excited to welcome Matt Trappe to the show. If you’ve been following ultrarunning media over the past decade, Matt’s name might ring a bell. He’s been behind some fantastic content over the last decade, including Jim Walmsley’s "Lighting The Fire" series, "Droddy," and "Leadman: The Dave Mackey Story," among other influential projects.

Matt has recently launched a new brand called Auteur Sportif, which we’ll link to in the show notes below. He’s also an insightful follow on LinkedIn, where he shares valuable commentary on the latest news inside the creative and business realms of endurance sports.

In our conversation, we dive into a range of topics, such as the role of storytelling in brand marketing, the significance of context and human connection in athlete narratives, and how the digital age is reshaping marketing in the trail running space. We also discuss the fragmentation of cultural conversations and the need for brands to engage with their audiences in new ways. Additionally, we explore the potential split between professional and participant markets in ultrarunning, and have some fun exploring open job roles in the sport, like the PR position at UTMB and the Global Creative Director role at Salomon.

Timestamps:

• 02:24 The Power of Filmmaking in Athlete Narratives
• 07:45 Balancing Brand Marketing and Performance Marketing
• 15:01 The Rise of Niche Brands in the Digital Age
• 19:08 Navigating the Fragmented Cultural Conversation
• 21:12 The Value of Long-Term Brand Marketing
• 27:38 The PR Opportunity of a Lifetime at UTMB
• 37:19 The Power of Storytelling
• 44:52 The Evolution of Races
• 54:14 Marketing Activations and Moments
• 58:08 Decoupling Athletes from Races

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
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• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.

 
Additional Links:

• Follow Matt on LinkedIn, Personal Website, Auteur Sportif
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Katie Schide returns to the show a week removed from her historic, record-setting win at the 2024 UTMB.

Given that Katie will be on the media circuit fielding many interviews over the next few days and weeks, we focused on some unique angles in this conversation - getting the inside scoop on what the immediate aftermath looks like for pro runners finishing at the front of this race, the psychology of handling near constant media attention from start to finish on this course, whether it makes sense to separate start times for the men’s and women’s races at UTMB, what to do once you’ve succeeded at the pinnacle of the sport, and more.

It’s always great to have Katie on the show and stay tuned because our "Eurotrack" series will be returning in early October when we get together to preview the high-profile races at Les Templiers and Grand Raid.

Timestamps:

• 02:00 The Challenges of the UTMB Finish Line
• 06:49 Navigating the Livestream Spotlight and Performative Expectations
• 12:24 The Increasing Competitiveness of the Women's Field
• 18:59 Constantly Striving for Improvement
• 30:44 Contemplating Hardrock, Trail World Championships
  
  

Partners:

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• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.

 
Additional Links:

• Follow Katie on Instagram, Strava, North Face
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Will Peterson joins the show to talk about the fastest known time he set this past weekend on Vermont’s Long Trail, the oldest continuous footpath in the United States and the setting for many notable performances over the years from top athletes in the ultrarunning scene like Nikki Kimball, Joe McConaughy, Jennifer Pharr Davis, and John Kelly.

We talk about all aspects of Will’s effort including mental and physical preparation, multi-day strategy, highlights from his race report, the skillset to accomplish something of this stature, whether he plans to stay in this type of arena in the future, and some fun topics generated by listeners and viewers (like whether he’d do the full Appalachian Trail).


Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction and Initial Feelings
• 06:40 The Long Trail and Other Routes
• 10:38 Background and Skillset
• 15:17 Motivation and Competition
• 19:14 The Evolving FKT Scene
• 24:17 Creating a Competitive Narrative and Mental Strategies
• 27:04 Training and Preparation
• 36:22 Planning and Adaptability in FKT Attempts
• 55:46 The Future of FKTs: Amateurs and Professionals
• 01:01:41 Data-Driven Goals for Optimal Performance
• 01:09:18 Instigating Participation in the Multi-Day Scene
• 01:11:06 Future in Multi-Day FKTs
• 01:17:21 The Debate on Expanded FKT Leaderboards
• 01:19:32 The Appalachian Trail and Future Challenges
• 01:23:38 Reflections on FKT of the Year Snub
• 01:26:06 The Unique Challenges of the 100 Mile Wilderness
• 01:31:24 Regulating External Communication on Unsupported Efforts
• 01:41:11 Gratitude for the Crew

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
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• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.

 Additional Links:

• Follow Will on Instagram, Strava, From The Backcountry Podcast
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join Singletrack to recap the 2024 UTMB. We talk about the impressive performances of race winners Katie Schide and Vincent Bouillard, the standout achievements of the top 10 women, DNF culture in big-stage events, and the challenges of fueling during overnight races among other topics.

Timestamps:

• 03:53 DNF Culture 
• 31:38 Comparing the Impressive Performances of the Women's Top 10, The Potential for Improvement on the UTMB Course, The Future of Women's Racing at UTMB, Shoutouts to Sabrina Stanley, Lucy Bartholomew, and Marianne Hogan
• 48:22 The Background and Future of Vincent Viet, The Compelling Nature of Unknown and Unlikely Winners, Balancing a Breakthrough Result with a Previous Life
• 01:23:14 The Presence of Prototype Shoes, The Evolution of UTMB into a Trade Show
• 01:31:25 Fueling Challenges in Overnight Races, Questioning the High Carb Fueling Trend
• 01:48:57 The Importance of Constructive Dialogue in the Sport, Improvements in the Coverage of the Women's Race, Positive Changes Arising from Controversies, Receptiveness to Criticism and Growth
  
  

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
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Additional Links:

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• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling retunr to the Singletrack Podcast to help preview the women's and men's fields at the 2024 Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB).

In both fields, we cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, provide analysis of top contenders, categorize who we see as candidates for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we make bold predictions across a number of other fun categories.

Timestamps:

• (0:43) - Course Strategy
• (18:57) - Women's Field Preview
• (73:12) - Men's Field Preview 

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.

Additional Links:

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• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
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Abby Hall’s journey to the 2024 UTMB start line is, in my opinion, one of the most compelling storylines of this year’s race. 

It’s been a while since she was last on the podcast—roughly about two years ago, around this same time, before the same race. This hiatus was not due to a lack of interest on my part. I closely follow her career across various social media platforms; she’s an exceptional writer and excels at documenting the life of a professional trail runner.

In our conversation, we cover everything that has happened in the past 15 months and what it took for her to return to the sport’s biggest stage. I believe you’ll find the discussion highly valuable. Abby is a generous conversationalist who skillfully connects her experiences to the interests of the audience.

Timestamps:

• 01:30 Introduction and Recapping 2022/2023 timeline
• 04:53 The Challenges of Recovering from a Major Injury
• 08:23 Rehabilitation and the Full-Time Job of Recovery
• 16:14 The Emotional Impact of Injury and the Role of a Sports Psychologist
• 23:08 The Complexities of Self-Responsibility in the Recovery Process
• 26:21 The Importance of Building Relationships with Supportive Team Members
• 30:12 Personal Rituals and Ceremonies in the Recovery Journey
• 33:28 Inspiring Others Through Social Media
• 42:50 Finding Joy in the Process of Training and Racing
• 55:47 Setting Goals and Staying Focused on Your Passion

Partners:

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• Pillar Performance - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.

 Additional Links:

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• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Tom Evans returns to the Singletrack Podcast to talk about the influence of work and travel in Kenya on his ultrarunning career, how he plans to bounce back from last year's UTMB, his new approach to social media and in-person engagements before race day, and some of the latest training and racing science he's incorporating into his 2024 schedule.

Timestamps:

• (1:35) - influence of the military and Iten, Kenya on his ultrarunning career
• (11:50) - greediness, selectivity, being realistic about racing performance prospects
• (30:42) - perils of media engagements, social media, distractions and their impact on race day performance
• (48:43) - training questions around specificity, double-labeled water test, exogenous ketones, traveling with a rice cooker

Partners:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
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 Additional Links:

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Jim Walmsley returns to the Singletrack Podcast to talk about his upcoming title defense at Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc (UTMB), final takeaways from his win at the Western States 100 in June, observations from spectating this year's Hardrock 100, whether he would ever do a full season on the Golden Trail series circuit, and how his career in ultrarunning has progressed to date both from training and race standpoints.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 The Increasing Competitiveness of Western States
• 09:02 The Importance of Mental Strength in Racing
• 15:19 Considering the Golden Trail Series
• 18:22 Adjusting Strategies for Future Races
• 22:50 The Challenges of the UTMB Course
• 27:56 Keeping Training Private for Focus
• 33:25 Approaching UTMB with Caution 
• 35:30 Considering the World Trail Championships
• 39:31 The Longevity of a Successful Career
• 49:29 Finding Inspiration in Other Sports
  
  

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 Additional Links:

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This conversation with Warren Doyle might need a bit of context if you’re not well-versed in the long-distance thru-hiking scene in North America. Warren is a prominent figure in the Appalachian Trail community. While there's some debate about the exact beginning of the modern fastest known time (FKT) scene on the AT, Warren's impressive 1973 record of 66 days and change is widely considered a significant milestone.

Warren’s contributions to the trail are extensive. Over a 45-year period, he led eight large-group “circle” expeditions with near 100% completion rates. He founded the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association and established the Appalachian Trail Institute, which has helped thousands of hikers achieve their thru-hiking goals. He has also played a key role in preparing notable figures like Jenn Pharr Davis and Liz Derstine for record-setting endurance attempts, and has advised many other prominent endurance athletes, including Karel Sabbe.

I’m excited to have Warren on the show for several reasons. First and foremost, my deep love for the AT and my ongoing quest to understand its history. Warren has been a central figure in shaping the trail’s scene over the past 40 to 50 years. In our conversation, we’ll explore topics like the nature of endurance records on long trails, the purpose of the AT, social change, the impact of the outdoor industry on thru-hiking culture, the relationship between government and nature, and much more.

Regardless of your familiarity with the scene, I think you’ll find this episode engaging. Warren is a vibrant and generous conversationalist, and I’m sure you’ll gain a lot from our discussion.

Timestamps:

• 02:00 Introduction and Backlash on the AT
• 10:34 The Commercialization of the Outdoor Industry
• 17:48 The Relationship Between the Trail and the Government
• 25:22 The Importance of Substantive Conversations on the Trail
• 40:10 Regulations and Policing of Mount Katahdin
• 44:39 The Amateur Aspect of Endurance Hiking
• 47:26 The Role of Support Crews in Endurance Record Attempts
• 01:03:36 Challenges of Reintegrating into Society after the AT
• 01:11:54 Embracing a Wilderness State of Mind
• 01:17:04 Supporting Dreams and Moving Forward
• 01:24:05 The Role of a Social Change Educator
• 01:31:55 Concerns about the Future of the Appalachian Trail 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.shop/) to get 15% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

 Additional Links:

• Warren's Website, Outside Feature

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Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join the Singletrack Podcast for another edition of the Long Run Archives. We talk about the prospect of the backyard ultra format being added to the Olympic games, insights for trail runners from the Tour de France, a Western States 100 with no automatic returning top-10 runners, the value of increasing popularity in fastest known time attempts, and speculate where top runners like Zach Miller and Courtney Dauwalter might race next.
 
 
 Timestamps:

• 00:00 Imagining the Backyard Ultra Format in the Paris Olympics
• 08:28 Tour de France Nutrition Strategies for Trail Running
• 27:29 Training Partners vs. Crew Service
• 39:40 Changing the Invitation System for Western States
• 44:40 The Impact on Race Dynamics and Strategies
• 48:04 The Role of Team Support and Camaraderie
• 53:51 Improving the World Trail Majors' Team Format
• 1:15:09 Harnessing the Power of Self-Talk in Sports Performance
• 1:31:50 The Strava Pro Badge Purge
• 1:35:34 The Worth of Increasing the Popularity of the FKT Scene

 Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack10 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 10% off your next order.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website (https://pillarperformance.us/) to get 15% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

 Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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This episode was recorded live at Singletrack’s Olympic Valley studios ahead of the 2024 Western States 100.

We were joined by Nick Bare and even though this was technically a pre-race interview, so much of what we talked about was only peripherally related to the event, so similar to the Scott Jurek and Sally McRae conversations from that week I wanted to save it for a stand-alone podcast a few weeks on.

Specifically, we talk about creating portals online for people to find the sport of trail running, what it means to be a hybrid athlete, some of his favorite books about mental and physical strength, how to make our sport cooler or more memorable, his advice for athletes and creators from a content marketing standpoint, and what’s exciting him about a race like Western States.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
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This episode was recorded live at Singletrack’s Olympic Valley studios ahead of the 2024 Western States 100.

We were joined by Sally McRae who probably needs no introduction. Sally is another person I've wanted to talk with since the inception of this podcast and even though this was technically a pre-race interview, so much of what we talked about was only peripherally related to the event, so similar to the Scott Jurek conversation I wanted to save it for a stand-alone podcast a few weeks on.

Specifically, we talk about the trajectory of her career starting with her Nike trail contract signing in the mid-2010s, how to think about the business side of trail running as a creator or athlete, and some of her favorite Western States 100 stories dating back to some of those great Billy Yang films a few years ago.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

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Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling join Singletrack to recap the 2024 Hardrock 100. We talk about the amazing performances from athletes like Courtney Dauwalter and Ludovic Pommeret, Leah's experience working on the livestream, Brett’s fan experience, Finn’s time creating content around the lead runners, the history and culture of this race, top storylines and insights from the weekend, and what the future of this race might look like after such another historic year of individual and cumulative performances.

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
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• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

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This episode was recorded live at Singletrack’s Olympic Valley studios ahead of the 2024 Western States 100.

We were joined by Scott Jurek who probably needs no introduction. Scott is someone I've wanted to talk with since the inception of this podcast and even though this was technically a pre-race interview, so much of what we talked about was only peripherally related to the event, so I wanted to save it for a stand-alone podcast a few weeks on.

Specifically, we talk about his history in the sport, some of the mental and emotional aspects of being an elite athlete, how someone of his stature in the sport grapples with athletic mortality, and some of his favorite stories with fellow competitors over the years.

*Note the audio jumps a bit at a few points in the conversation. I think this was due to the poor internet connection at our studio during the livestream. - Finn


Sponsors:

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Brett Hornig and Dani Moreno join Singletrack to recap the 2024 Western States 100. 

We talk about the amazing performances from athletes like Jim Walmsley and Katie Schide, Brett's experience working on the livestream, Dani and Finn's experiences crewing top runners, whether there's a definitive training and racing playbook for this event, noticeable innovations in crewing, nutrition, and topical cooling, and what the future of this race might look like after such a historic year of individual and cumulative performances.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

   Additional Links:

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• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Dani on Instagram, SubHub, Website

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Katie Schide and Heather Jackson stop by the Singletrack studio in Olympic Valley, CA ahead of the 2024 Western States 100 to chat it up about the race, the sport at large, and life in general. Thanks to both of these guys! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

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These conversations with Dani Moreno (Predictions Show) and Jamil Coury and Matt Feldhake (Livestream Insights) were livestreamed on the Singletrack YouTube a few days before the 2024 Western States 100.  Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

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These conversations were livestreamed on the Singletrack YouTube a few days before the 2024 Western States 100. Enjoy Leah, Hayden, and Ryan's final thoughts before race day! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
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Brett Hornig and Corrine Malcolm join the show to preview the women’s field at the 2024 Western States 100. We cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, we analyze the field and categorize who we see as contenders for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we close with some of Corrine’s bold predictions for Saturday. Buckle up, because it’s another entertaining one. Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.
 
  Sponsors:

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• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
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• Follow Corrine on Instagram, Freetrail

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Brett Hornig and Mike McMonagle join the show to help preview the men’s field at the 2024 Western States 100. We cover top storylines and what to watch for, we answer some listener mail about the race, we analyze the field and categorize who we see as contenders for the win, for the podium, and the top 10, and we close with some of Mike’s bold predictions for Saturday. Buckle up, because it’s an entertaining one. Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.
 
 Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

 Additional Links:

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• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube 
• Follow Mike on Instagram, Website

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Dylan Bowman and Jim Walmsley stop by the Singletrack studio in Olympic Valley, CA ahead of the 2024 Western States 100 to chat it up about the race, the sport at large, and life in general. Thanks to both of these guys! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Additional Links:

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• Follow Jim on Instagram
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube 

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I am joined by co-host Brett Hornig to present our coverage plan for the 2024 Western States 100. From Monday, June 24th through Friday, June 28th we're livestreaming 10 athlete interviews, 5 influencer/operator conversations, and 5 pre-race daily shows from our studio in Olympic Valley. Stay tuned for more information, especially details about daily content schedules, listener and viewer giveaways, and Wednesday group run,  posted on the Singletrack YouTube and Instagram channels as we get closer to race week. Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of our content.

Sponsors:

• Brooks - check out their new Cascadia 18 shoe and High Point apparel collection (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
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Kilian Jornet joins the Singletrack Podcast to talk about how mountain sports have evolved - with motivations shifting from scientific exploration to nationalism to self-centeredness in modern times, how the concept of the impossible is debated in mountaineering and trail running - with some questioning the impact of technological advancements, the idea of reducing consumption and rethinking business models to help minimize the outdoor industry’s footprint, and his involvement working to secure a better relationship between pro athletes and race organizations like UTMB.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 The Evolution of Motivations in Mountain Sports
• 04:08 The Influence of Society and Culture on Athletes
• 07:02 The Debate on the Concept of the Impossible
• 13:56 Contrasting Philosophical Aspects of Mountaineering and Trail Running
• 50:13 The Positive Role of Competition
• 56:22 The Importance of the Pro Trail Runners Association, UTMB Observations

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• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

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Candice Burt is the Founder of Destination Trail, a trail running events company that puts on popular races like the Moab 240, Tahoe 200, and Bigfoot 200.

Timestamps:

• 1:37 - Arizona Trail, interest in long trail FKT scene, remarking on Heather Anderson’s recent unsupported FKT
• 23:15 - athlete sponsorship discussion, working with brands, content angles on the social platforms, spring energy comments
• 45:30 - being a female business owner in the ultra community, evolution of the 200 mile scene, recruiting influencers to events

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Candice on Instagram, Destination Trail 
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• "The Last American Man" by Elizabeth Gilbert

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Michael Versteeg joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation about ultrarunning.

 Timestamps:

• (0:52) - the story behind 2021 Cocodona 250 race report, Arizona trail running ambassadorship, countercultural tendencies
• (15:11) - more Cocodona 250 discussion - the direction the race is headed in, popularity, what makes it special, 2024 experience racing the likes of Harry, Jeff Browning, Arlen, Joe McConaughy, etc
• (34:26) - discussion about the sustainability of a competitive mindset and whether it interferes with mental health
• (59:57) - Saddles 100, philosophy about ultrarunning events, sponsorship, etc
• (94:26) - overall philosophy of living and building
• (141:20) - experience at the 2015 Ultramarathon Caballo Blanco 
• (152:18) - experience at the Alaska Mountain Wilderness Classic
• (170:44) - inspiration from John Wesley Powell
• (180:09) - takeaways from the conversation, race directing ideas
• (200:01) - influence of parenthood

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Michael on Instagram, Saddles 100, Blog, Run Steep Get High
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• Ketone Study

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Caley Fretz is the Co-Founder and Editor-In-Chief of Escape Collective, a member-funded independent cycling media company.  As Caley says in his LinkedIn bio, he's “used everything learned over a decade in journalism to build a more sustainable media company”. And that’s what we discuss in this episode - whether his experiences in the cycling space translate over to what current operations and the future of media look like in the trail running world.

If you’re interested in the business of sports and have enjoyed our conversations on these topics in the past, you’ll enjoy this one too.

Timestamps:

• (0:58) - Escape Collective backstory, Caley's sports journalism background
• (10:05) - explaining how we got to the current state of endurance sports media
• (23:38) - pros and cons of owned versus rented media channels
• (33:03) - pros and cons of alignment with fans versus versus partners, advertisers
• (39:11) - what happens next for the middle of the media market
• (43:03) - replicating parts of the Athletic business model
• (53:38) - future of endurance sports media, possible business models

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

 Links:

• Follow Caley on LinkedIn
• Email Caley ([email protected])
• Escape Collective
• Escape Collective Transparency Report
• Ketone Study
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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This episode is dedicated to my crew: Julia Campanelli, Sherman, Ned Melanson, Jeremiah Mullane, Joey Campanelli, Caleb Olson, Morgan Olson, and Scott Hickenlooper. Without you all, this wouldn't have been possible. I'm forever grateful. - Finn

 

Timestamps: 

• 02:02 - The Physical and Mental Challenges of a 200-Mile Race
• 09:06 - The Importance of Crew Support and Nutrition
• 23:29 - Overcoming Isolation and Low Moments in the Race
• 33:42 - Strategic Use of Live Tracker and Pacers
• 41:31 - Celebrating Checkpoints Instead of Fixating on the Finish Line
• 52:31 - The Evolving Competitiveness of 200-Mile Races
• 57:00 - Streamlined and Minimalist Gear Choices in the Future
• 01:26:35 - The Promising Future of The Cocodona 250

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Gorewear - use code Singletrack30 at checkout on their website (https://www.gorewear.com/us/en-us/home) to get 30% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

 Links:

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Ansel Dickey joins the show to talk about his experience making “Walmsley”, what it was like getting to know and work with Jim, what it’s like working as a creative in the endurance sports industry, and his role as a Race Director for Vermont Overland.


Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
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Links:

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• Overland Studio, Overland Races
• Walmsley Film
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Brett Hornig and Jeff Colt join Singletrack to riff on the latest news in the ultra-trail running world.


Timestamps:

• (1:42) - Canyons 100K Highlights
• (32:35) - Regional Trail Team Competitions (Like Boulder vs Salt Lake)
• (52:36) - UTMB Americas Major Moving From Canyons To Kodiak In 2025
• (63:49) - Merrell's Campaign To Get Trail Running In The Olympics
• (78:39) - Jim Walmsley Returning To UTMB In 2024?
• (93:31) - Spring Energy Gel Controversey

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at the 2024 Canyons 100K.
 
  Timestamps:

• (0:00) - course strategy, weather conditions, historical performance data, competitive race context
• (30:22) - women's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions
• (66:07) - men's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Jeff Browning joins the show to talk about his history in the sport, competitive relevance over the last two decades, and insights on his training and preparation leading into the 2024 Cocodona 250.

Timestamps:

• (0:00) - Wasatch 100 Reflections
• (11:49) - Competitive Relevance of Older Ultrarunners
• (29:19) - Patagonia Days
• (36:55) - 200 Mile Racing Discussion, 2024 Cocodona 250 Specifics

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Jeff's Personal Website and Coaching Business
• Follow Jeff on Instagram and Strava
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube 

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Simon Freeman is the Co-Founder of Like The Wind Magazine. In this episode, we talk about differences in running culture across the globe, the nuts and bolts of building and maintaining a media brand in the sport, and conclude with some of his insights on the professional scene in Iten, Kenya.

Timestamps:

• (0:26) - US Tour, Differences In Running Cultures Across The World
• (9:03) - Inspirations for Like The Wind Magazine, Fulfilling Content Creation
• (25:12) - Taking A Point Of View In Running Media
• (35:47) - More Discussion Of Running Media Trends
• (68:41) - More Like The Wind Magazine Discussion
• (74:50) - 70s and 80s US Marathoning Scene, Duel In The Sun, Iten, Kenya

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Like The Wind Magazine
• Connect with Simon on LinkedIn
• People vs Algorithms Podcast
• Podcast Graveyard Podcast
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Jasmin Paris returns to the Singletrack Podcast to talk about her historic, limits-defying finish at the 2024 Barkley Marathons.

Timestamps:

• 1:59 The Story Behind the Gear
• 6:57 Sponsorship Status, The Green Runners, Promoting Sustainability
• 10:13 Hardrock 100, Future Races and Travel
• 13:31 Harnessing the Media Spotlight
• 23:25 Discovering the Barkley After The 2019 Spine, Laz Remarks
• 29:14 Mock Barkley Courses In Training
• 37:48 Reflections and Moving Forward
• 44:24 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
  
  

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• The Green Runners
• 2022 Jasmin Paris Singletrack Interview
• IRunFar Interview, Freetrail Interview
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Jared Campbell is a 4-time finisher of the Barkley Marathons, a past winner of the Hardrock 100, the creator of the Running Up For Air series, and the genius behind classic FKT routes like the Wasatch Ultimate Ridge Linkup and Millwood 100.

Timestamps:

• (1:39) - Barkley Marathons Insights
• (52:09) - Wasatch FKT Scene, Under-The-Radar Cool Races
• (66:19) - Environmental Discussion 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Jared on Instagram, Website
• Running Up For Air
• City Home Collective Article
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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This episode was recorded in-person at Brooks HQ in Seattle, Washington with Joe McConaughy at the Brooks Trail Team training camp shortly after the 2024 Barkley Marathons. 

We recount Jasmin Paris’ finish and the historical significance of that moment for our sport, the impact of 5 finishers this year, what makes Barkley so interesting, Joe’s race recap with training, nutritional, and racing insights for future editions, and reflections on a few other memorable moments across the 3 day stretch.


Timestamps:

• (2:08) - Jasmin Paris 
• (14:15) - Impact of 5 Finishers
• (36:32) - Joe's Barkley Report - Crew, Training, Nutrition, Gear, Racing
• (68:32) - Final Thoughts, Lazarus Lake, Barkley Thoughts

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Jared Campbell Blog
• Media In The Wilderness by Lazarus Lake
• Follow Joe on Instagram, Strava, Coaching
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling join Singletrack to recap the Lululemon-backed FURTHER event which took place outside of Palm Springs, CA about a week ago. 

It was equal parts interesting from performance, research, technology, marketing, and lifestyle standpoints and we touch on a lot of that in this episode through the lens of Leah’s experience logging 400 miles over the 6-day event and Brett helping crew her during that time frame. 

Specifically, we recap her race experience, talk about the multi-day race strategies she picked up over the 6 days, and learn about some of the ultrarunning-related research that was conducted and when that will be available for public consumption.

No doubt many of you were glued to the live tracker for all the athletes out there, Mike McMonagle’s photo journalism, and some of the reporting from Outside and IRunFar. Hopefully, this episode adds another interesting angle to one of the more unique events we’ve seen in the running sphere in at least a few years.


Timestamps:

• 01:00 Initial Thoughts and Event Background
• 08:34 Cognitive Tests and Mental Performance
• 10:29 Preconceptions vs. Reality of a Multi-Day Event
• 23:02 Training Volume and Performance
• 37:56 Sleep Strategies
• 43:28 Medical Support, Managing Injuries
• 49:10 Wearable Technology - Core Temp, Glucose, Etc
• 01:09:47 Insights from Shoe and Apparel Tech, Biomechanics Feedback
• 01:17:05 The Purpose and Impact of Further
• 01:26:37 The Mental Game in Multi-Day Events
• 01:32:39 Post-Event Recovery and Future Races, Final Takeaways

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Christian Meier is a professional trail runner for Salomon and an entrepreneur based in Girona, Spain. In this discussion, Christian shares insights on the contrasting levels of professionalism in cycling and trail running. He delves into the integration of Norwegian training techniques into ultra-trail running, achieving excellence across diverse sports disciplines, and his diverse array of business endeavors beyond his athletic pursuits.

Timestamps:

• 01:30 Level of Preparation in Ultrarunning vs Cycling
• 10:02 Tactics in Ultrarunning
• 23:34 Increasing Level of Preparation in Ultrarunning
• 27:01 Staying Power in Ultrarunning
• 29:06 Norwegian Training Methods in Ultrarunning
• 38:37 Commitment to High Performance, Athletic Peaks 
• 56:25 Balancing Athletics and Business, Managing Business Ventures
• 01:12:43 Efficiency and Time Management
• 01:15:42 Upcoming Races and Final Thoughts

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Christian on Instagram, Strava, Chance, Overland, La Fabrica
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Meridith Cass - the Founder-CEO of Nix BioSensors - joins the show to talk about the self-health movement, the latest technology behind hydration intelligence, and the prospect of completely automating your hydration strategy and execution at an ultra-trail race like the Western States 100.

One thing to note before we get started - Singletrack has no financial partnership with Nix, but if you’re interested in trying out their products after listening to this episode feel free to use the code Singletrack15 for 15% off your order on their website.

Timestamps:

• 2:10 The Importance of Self-Health and Personalized Health Management
• 5:15 Accuracy and Meaningful Metrics in Biosensing
• 8:34 Personalized Feedback and Dynamic Recommendations
• 10:05 The Limitations of Intuition in Hydration Management
• 12:26 The Impact of Dehydration on Performance
• 14:17 How the Nix Patch Works and Measures Sweat
• 15:06 Refining Hydration Plans with Patch Data
• 17:30 The Nix Index and Environmental Conditions
• 21:05 The Value of Wearing the Patch Before and After Workouts
• 23:42 Triangulating Data with Other Sensors
• 25:04 Accuracy of Recommendations and Tolerable Error Rate
• 27:24 The Role of the Patch in Changing Consumer Purchasing and Brand Marketing
• 29:30 Granularity of Electrolyte Profile Data
• 31:06 The Future of Hydration and the Role of the Nix Patch
• 37:09 The Impact of Nix on Personalized Purchasing Decisions
• 39:39 The Need for Lab-Based Sweat Tests and the Role of the Nix Patch
• 41:00 Exciting Research in Sweat Science and Partnerships with Researchers
• 42:27 Automating Hydration Strategies with the Nix Patch
  
  
  Sponsors:
• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• deltaG Ketones - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.deltagketones.com/SINGLETRACK20) to get 20% off your next order.

Links:

• Connect with Meridith on LinkedIn, Website
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Paul Huddle is the Senior Director of Global Trail Running Operations for the Ironman Group. Beyond that, Paul is a former elite triathlete, he got a silver buckle at the 1997 Western States 100, he’s been a race director, and he’s worked extensively in endurance sports media. In this conversation, we talk about the ongoing controversy surrounding one of the Ironman Group’s newest races (UTMB Whistler), the Ironman Group’s impression over the last 2 years on the North American trail running community, and the directions our sport might be headed in the years to come.

Timestamps:

• (5:09) - UTMB Whistler
• (31:47) - Ironman Group influence on trail running
• (55:16) - miscellaneous questions

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Connect with Paul on LinkedIn
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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We are back with cohost Katie Schide for another edition of Eurotrack this time to provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at the 2024 Transgrancanaria 126K.

 Timestamps:

• (0:34) - general thoughts about Transgrancanaria
• (9:22) - course analysis for Transgrancanaria
• (26:54) - race stats from Aid Station Fireball
• (33:31) - women's field analysis, storylines, predictions
• (44:15) - men's field analysis, storylines, predictions

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Transgrancanaria Livestream
• Follow Aid Station Fireball on Twitter
• Follow Katie on Instagram, Strava, North Face
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Brett Hornig, Jeff Colt, and Corrine Malcolm join Singletrack to riff on the latest news in the ultra-trail running world.

In this conversation, we share our takeaways from the 2024 Black Canyon 100K, talk about the entirety of the Western States 100 golden ticket series including some early takes on the Canyons 100K race later this spring, and spend the rest of the time talking about the implications of Stian Angermund’s positive doping test after last year’s UTMB-OCC race, which was revealed earlier this month.

Timestamps:

• (0:42) - Black Canyon 100K Recap
• (35:58) - Wider Golden Ticket Series Discussion
• (48:42) - Stian Angermund / Positive Doping Test Discussion
• (87:24) - Miscellaneous Parting Thoughts

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Additional Links:

• Follow Corrine on Instagram, Strava, Trail Society, Coaching
• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Mary Kate Shea, serving as the Senior Director of Pro Athletes for road race events at the Boston Athletic Association, holds a pivotal role in recruiting and facilitating the experience of hundreds of professional runners at marquee events like the Boston Marathon, BAA 10K, and BAA 5K annually.

With her extensive expertise in pro athlete recruitment, event management, sponsorship, and sports marketing, I found it compelling to invite her to discuss the merits of her position and explore how the implementation of (more) dedicated, full-time roles like hers could benefit the world of mountain ultra trail running on a larger scale.

Our conversation delves into the essential elements of building and maintaining world-class running events, highlighting the critical role she plays in the process. We also explore how pro athletes are researched, recruited, compensated, and supported at races such as the Boston Marathon, offering valuable insights and takeaways for athletes, event operators, and media personnel in the trail running community.

Timestamps:

• (1:17) - ultrarunning origins, Ann Trason story
• (8:59) - building a world-class running event, the importance of elite athlete recruitment
• (21:12) - the traits of a good athlete recruiter and manager, ecosystem of athlete recruiters
• (40:19) - what the position looks like from a year-round standpoint, how athletes are supported 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Follow Mary Kate on LinkedIn
• Boston Athletic Association Website
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at the 2024 Black Canyon 100K.
 
 Timestamps:

• (1:09) - course strategy, weather conditions, historical performance data, competitive race context
• (34:01) - women's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions
• (68:51) - men's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Follow Aid Station Fireball on Twitter
• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Adam Merry is a professional trail runner for Saucony based in Boulder, CO ahead of his race at the Black Canyon 100K on February 10th. In this conversation, we catch up on the second half of his 2023 season, all the details around his race prep, the state of the Boulder boys and the new podcast they have dropping today (linked here in the show notes).

Timestamps:

• (1:53) - second half of 2023
• (9:55) - 2024 Black Canyon 100K
• (14:30) - Boulder Boys

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

  Links:

• Follow Adam on Instagram, Strava, Boulder Boys Podcast, Boulder Boys Trail
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Emkay Sullivan is a professional trail runner for Craft based in Reno NV ahead of her race at the Black Canyon 100K on February 10th. In this conversation we talk about going full-time on trail running, making the jump to the 100K distance, why 2024 represents the start of her versatility era, and some reflections on the Sub Hub Podcast and highlights from covering that part of the sport.

Timestamps:

• (0:32) - full time pro trail running
• (2:03) - reflecting on 2023 season, moving up in distance, versatility era
• (14:14) - black canyon preparation, possible race outcomes, golden ticket considerations
• (19:35) - sub hub podcast, sub ultra scene highlights

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

  Links:

• Follow Emkay on Instagram, Strava, Subhub Podcast
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Rachel Drake is a professional trail runner for Nike based in Portland, Oregon. Ahead of her race at the Black Canyon 100K on February 10th, we talk about using the road marathon as a vehicle for trail speed, the value in collaborating with competitors to reach your potential, the appeal of Black Canyon and a golden ticket to Western States, as well as her experience in the Hong Kong trail scene last month.

 Timestamps:

• (2:07) - marathon as a vehicle for trail speed
• (5:09) - collaborating with competitors
• (9:36) - race schedule, staying inspired
• (14:29) - Hong Kong trail running scene
• (17:42) - Black Canyon discussion

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

  Links:

• Follow Rachel on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Hayden Hawks is a professional trail runner sponsored by Hoka, Coros, and Precision, based in Cedar City, UT. In this conversation, we discuss his recovery from injury and surgery midway through the last season, the tools and knowledge he has incorporated into his ultrarunning routine over the past nine months, his training approach and visualization strategies for the upcoming race at Black Canyon, and some reflections on how his career has developed to date.

Timestamps:

• (0:46) - bounce back from injury and surgery
• (4:17) - training changes, load management
• (16:50) - nutrition changes
• (25:17) - making the choice early in career to go ultra versus sub ultra
• (31:50) - seasonal racing volume 
• (36:11) - Black Canyon 100K discussion 
• (48:17) - miscellaneous topics, final thoughts

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

 Links:

• Follow Hayden on Instagram, Strava, Website
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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🗣️ “The more I’m exposed to better athletes and better people and their unique things, the more obsessed they are. The more it drives their day-to-day, it drives their minute-to-minute, and nothing else kinda matters.”

Widely recognized as one of America’s best middle-distance runners in the 2010s, Ben Blankenship joins the Singletrack Podcast to talk about his move into ultra-trail running, racing the Rabid Raccoon 100 miler in March, the nature of obsession and the willingness to push limits at the top of the sport, the allure of the dirtbag runner lifestyle, and his experience at the 2015 UTMB watching the likes of David Laney, Tim Tollefson and Zach Miller throw down.

Timestamps:

• (1:21)  - witnessing the 2015 UTMB with Nike Trail 
• (5:17) - running background, the opportunities he seized to build a career
• (9:46) - the psychological builds of elite runners, bougie versus dirtbag distinctions
• (17:02) - how to watch running 
• (21:10) - grappling with a running career at a crossroads
• (24:03) - being coached by Ryan Hall, trail running training 
• (30:04) - Rabid Raccoon 100, testing the ultra scene, Grayson Murphy's influence
• (36:47) - Endless Mileage Project

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

 Links:

• Follow Ben on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Endless Mileage Project
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Sam Parsons returns to provide an update on Tinman Elite, a professional running team based out of Boulder, CO. We get into the challenges of building, maintaining, and growing the team, influencing the greater professional culture in running, and reflections on Sam’s athletic mortality and what the future might hold for him.

Note - Earlier this month we reposted a conversation with Sam from November 2021 that queues this one up nicely. Go check it out, if you haven't already. 

Timestamps:

• (0:48) - there's still no co-located ultra-trail running team 
• (3:24) - the wins and losses for Tinman Elite over the last 2 years
• (9:06) - why it's still worth it
• (11:54) - the dark side of discipline
• (19:26) - the requirements to keep at it in yours 30s
• (29:20) - changing the culture of pro running
• (34:38) - rivalries in running, recruiting runners with fire
• (44:34) - stock up or stock down, the next road runner to go to trail, next steps

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

 Links:

• Follow Sam on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Tinman Elite on Instagram, YouTube, Website 
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Zach Miller is a professional trail runner for the North Face. In this conversation, we cover this latest thoughts on training, racing, and UTMB.

Timestamps:

• (1:06) - UTMB Thoughts
• (35:56) - Training, Racing, Career Thoughts
• (89:53) - Miscellaneous Topics, Next Steps

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Follow Zach on Instagram, Strava, IRunFar
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Way back in November 2021 when this show was just getting off the ground, we did an episode with Sam Parsons - a professional runner and cofounder of the Tinman Elite team based in Boulder, CO.

At the time, I was surprised that we had not seen the formation and widespread existence of a truly professionalized, co-located team in the trail running world. So I reached out, he gave me an hour, and I tried to fit in as many questions as I could about how they operate, what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what it would take to create something similar in our community.

I have never done an episode re-run before, but I’m doing it now because (a) it’s been over 2 years and we’re in a similar position to where we were in 2021, (b) the show didn’t have many listeners when the original episode aired so there was little to no reach for the message, and (c) this re-run may queue up a potential part 2 later this winter.

Lastly, I’m well aware of the unique challenges that our sport presents for this idea to work, but I’m still convinced it’s a good idea. So, I hope that in the coming months and years a band of motivated people run with this idea and make something happen.
 
 Timestamps

• (1:46) - the story of Tinman Elite
• (4:01) - speculating on the potential for trail running teams 
• (7:09) - the Tinman playbook for recruiting team members
• (12:17) - how Tinman coordinates training, racing schedules
• (17:34) - why aspiring pro runners still default to the roads and track
• (22:54) - how Sam would grow the sport of trail running
• (26:47) - Adidas internship
• (32:17) - brand marketing inspirations for running teams
• (34:08) - how Tinman creates content for social media
• (46:08) - lessons from Tinman for the next trail running team

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

 Links

• Follow Sam Parsons and Tinman Elite 
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Trail Tea is back! In this edition, I am once again joined by Jack Kuenzle, Dan Curts, and Abby Levene. There is a fair bit of profanity used in this episode, so you are forewarned on that front. And one issue to be aware of before listening - I neglected to catch an audio issue with Dan’s microphone early in the episode that persists and ultimately, gets worse through the end of the conversation. I looked into possible fixes in post-production, but could not find an adequate solution.  We will make sure the 3rd edition (and all future editions of TT, for that matter) have immaculate audio quality.

Timestamps:

• (2:33) why Jack is not racing UTMB next year, general thoughts on whether to opt out of the UTMB system
• (62:06) doping in trail running, genetic predetermination of success in the sport
• (81:05) debating the value of trail running media 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.

Links:

• Follow Jack on Strava and Instagram
• Follow Abby on Strava and Instagram
• Follow Dan on Strava and Instagram
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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I am joined by co-hosts Brett Hornig and Leah Yingling to recap the year in mountain ultra trail running. We cover our favorite storylines, biggest changes in the sport, the rookie athletes that burst onto the scene, runners that had "comeback" type seasons, our thoughts certain candidates inside TROY and UROY voting, unsung performances and runners of the year, personal highlights, and our predictions for 2024.

Timestamps:

• (1:44) - top storylines of 2023
• (11:02) - rookies of the year
• (18:18) - comeback runners of the year
• (24:03) - unsung performances of the year
• (40:01) - internal TROY and UROY placement debates
• (47:48) - biggest changes in ultra-trail running this year
• (57:31) - predictions for 2024

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK20 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 20% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.

Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Jennifer Pharr Davis is perhaps best known in our community for her two fastest known times set on the Appalachian Trail in 2008 and 2011. The latter record, in my humble opinion, stands as one of the most important and influential feats in the ultra-endurance community during the 2010s.

Jennifer is also the author of an excellent book called 'The Pursuit of Endurance', which profiles well-known athletes from the long-distance Fastest Known Time (FKT) scene, including Scott Jurek, Heather Anderson, David Horton, and Warren Doyle.

During this conversation, we gain insights from Jennifer on the state of the FKT world. We discuss whether the current media attention, regulations, and styles that drive many modern athletes are a net positive for this space. And Jennifer also shares how she approached the trail and provides updates on what she's currently involved in.

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.

Links:

• Follow Jennifer on Instagram, Personal Website, Pursuit of Endurance Book
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and special guest Jeff Colt talk about UTMB parting ways with Corrine Malcolm, the latest, Hardrock 100 and Black Canyon 100K start lists, reactions to the new Strava messaging feature, race performances that defined the 2010s, and lower-key races that we want to see gain popularity.


Timestamps:

• 02:00 - Introduction and UTMB Parting Ways with Corrine Malcolm
• 06:47 - Speculating UTMB's Future in North America
• 27:43 - Discussion on Hardrock 100 and Black Canyon
• 45:26 - Discussion on Shoe Innovation and Replication
• 52:35 - Introduction of Strava Messaging Feature
• 59:41 - Memorable Race Performances from the 2010s
• 01:05:02 - Impact of Media on Trail Running
• 01:19:18 - The Role of Storytellers in the 2020s
• 01:21:19 - Up and Coming Races in the Next 3-5 Years
• 01:28:52 - Race Ideas: Starting Point and Distance Challenge

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Additional Links:

• Follow Jeff on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Coaching

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Spike Eskin is the VP of programming for WFAN and CBS Sports Radio and the host of a popular basketball podcast called “The Rights to Ricky Sanchez”. 

Given the proliferation of ultra-trail running media coverage in recent years, I figured this would be a good time to talk with an expert in sports programming and commentary from the major sports world that we can take lessons and insights from to bring back to our growing world. 

Whether you’re an athlete, a fan, a race director, a brand manager, or a media operator yourself, I think you’ll have many takeaways from this one. 

And as always, I’d love to continue the conversation and hear those thoughts. Shoot me a message @runsingletrack on Instagram. 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Spike on Twitter and LinkedIn
• Listen to Spike on Stratechery and Making Media 
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Christina Henderson serves as the Executive Director for the Running Event, the premier trade show for the running industry which takes place annually at the end of November in Austin, TX.

At the time of this recording, we were just a few weeks away from the 2023 edition, so I figured this would be a good time to chat with Christina and get a better understanding of how the event serves our community, what's new for this year, and the implications of the social and commercial trends she's noticing.

Timestamps:

• (2:44) - Running Event backstory
• (12:58) - Running Event business model
• (28:04) - running industry trends
• (51:04) - Running Event expansions

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Register for the Running Event
• Follow Christina on LinkedIn
• Email Christina ([email protected])
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Sam Renouf is the Founder and CEO of the Professional Triathletes Organization. In this conversation, we talk about the challenges of professionalizing and mainstreaming endurance sports, pro athlete welfare, generating more casual fans for sports like trail running, and we get into some of the details of the PTO’s relationship with Ironman.  

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Sam on LinkedIn
• Listen to Sam on the Triathlon Hour
• Sam's interview on SlowTwitch
• PTO Website
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Seth Ruhling is a professional trail runner for The North Face based in Boulder, CO.

Seth joins the podcast fresh off his 2nd win at the JFK 50 this past Saturday and we spend a fair bit of time breaking down the performance, but we also get into some good discussion around his overall racing style, his career progression towards the upper echelon of ultra-trail, the highs and lows of his 2023 season which include rebounding from a heart condition to take 6th at CCC this past August and much more.

Timestamps:

• (1:47) - JFK 50 Analysis
• (30:49) - Career Progression and 2023 Year In Review
• (53:40) - Future Plans 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Seth on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Lindsey McDonald is a trail runner for the Aravaipa Racing Team based in Flagstaff, AZ preparing for the 2023 Ultra Trail Cape Town 100K.

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Lindsey on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

Text us your thoughts about this episode or ideas for future episodes!

Marianne Hogan is a pro trail runner for Salomon based in Montreal, Quebec preparing for the 2023 Ultra Trail Cape Town 100K.

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Marianne on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Eurotrack is back! Katie recaps her Grand Raid win and her decision to return to the Western States 100 next year, and then we do a retrospective on the 2023 European ultra trail scene offering our opinions on top performances, favorite moments, rookies of the year, emerging trends and from all of that, some of our predictions for 2024.

Timestamps:

• (1:50) - Grand Raid Recap
• (31:40) - Western States 100 return
• (42:20) - European Ultra Trail Scene Year In Review

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Katie on Instagram, Strava, North Face
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Additional Episodes You May Enjoy:

• #238 - Eurotrack #2 - Katie Schide | Western States 100, Lavaredo 120K, Hardrock10
• #212 - Eurotrack #1 - Katie Schide | Eurotrack Introduction, Transvulcania Preview

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Steve Brammar is the Co-Race Director for the Hong 100K and one of the key architects of the World Trail Majors, which launches today.

Listen to our conversation to get all the details about what it is, how it works, and what it means for the trail running community.

Timestamps:

• (1:51) World Trail Majors announcement, race schedule
• (8:04) World Trail Majors purpose
• (25:17) consolidated versus fragmented ultra-trail landscape 
• (32:24) passion versus business
• (37:22) Hong Kong 100K 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow World Trail Majors, Hong Kong 100K, Ellie Greenwood 
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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In this episode, Kristian Morgan goes into detail about what it takes to pursue and set the fastest known time on the Appalachian Trail. If you're interested in this scene either as a fan of long trail attempts or as an athlete curious about making a similar attempt one day, you won't want to miss this conversation. Kristian is equal parts informative, passionate, and entertaining about this project.

Timestamps:

•  (4:45) - influence of living and training in Ethiopia and Thailand 
• (15:12) - Karl Meltzer, Warren Doyle, Jenn Pharr Davis, Heather Anderson Appalachian Trail influence
• (41:13) - mental training component for Appalachian Trail 
• (58:53) - physical training component for Appalachian Trail 
• (77:23) - logistical and financial preparation for Appalachian Trail 
• (107:21) - future of Appalachian Trail FKT

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Kristian on Instagram, Website, GoFundMe, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and special guest Jamil Coury talk about the news of Eric Senseman's retirement, the end of the Kauai 50, whether Ryan Hall is getting into ultra trail running, the UTMB Whistler debacle, and a recap of the Javelina Jundred.

Please note that this episode was recorded on the morning of November 1st. Since that time new information on the UTMB Whistler story has become available, including a Freetrail Podcast with Gary Robbins that we strongly encourage you to listen to or watch.

Timestamps:

• (2:53) - Eric Senseman Retirement
• (11:22) Kauai 50 Ending
• (25:17) - Ryan Hall Trail Running
• (37:23) - UTMB Whistler Controversy
• (92:04) - Javelina Jundred Recap 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Gary Robbins Blog Post #1
• Gary Robbins Blog Post #2
• Trail Runner Magazine Article
• Freetrail Podcast w / Gary Robbins (Audio)
• Freetrail Podcast w / Gary Robbins (Video)
• Some Work All Play Podcast 

Additional Links:

• Follow Jamil on Instagram, Youtube, Website
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Jeff Pelletier is an outdoor adventure filmmaker and competitive ultrarunner who recently took 2nd place in an unusually thrilling finish (for a race of this distance) at the Moab 240 earlier this month and runs a popular YouTube channel linked below cataloging all of his activity in the sport.

In this conversation, we talk about the emerging world of 200-mile racing, the ins and outs of Running YouTube, and all sorts of insights around being a trail running entrepreneur that operators and pro runners might enjoy.

Timestamps:

• (1:50) - Moab 240 insights
• (32:26) - Running YouTube
• (64:56) - Trail Running Business

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Jeff on YouTube, Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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Finn Melanson, Brett Hornig, and Leah Yingling provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the competition at this year’s 2023 Javelina Jundred.

Timestamps:

• (1:09) - course strategy, weather conditions, historical performance data, competitive race context
• (38:37) - women's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions
• (66:05) - men's field preview, storylines, analysis, predictions

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.

Links:

• Follow Leah on Instagram,  Strava, Twitter
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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To round out our 2023 Javelina Jundred pre-race athlete interviews, we talk with Brett Hornig, Heather Jackson, and a virtual athlete roundtable of Joe McConaughy, Blake Slattengren, and Ryan Raff - all of whom are seeking golden tickets to next year's Western States 100.

Timestamps:

• (1:15) - Brett Hornig
• (24:20) - Heather Jackson
• (48:04) - Virtual Athlete Roundtable

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Follow Brett on Instagram, Youtube, Website
• Follow Heather on Instagram, YouTube, Strava
• Follow Ryan, Follow Joe, Follow Blake

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To kick-off our 2023 Javelina Jundred coverage, we interview Preston Cates, Tara Dower, and Riley Brady who are all seeking golden tickets to next year's Western States 100.

Timestamps:

• (1:04) - Preston Cates Interview
• (25:09) - Tara Dower Interview
• (43:45) - Riley Brady Interview

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Follow Preston on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Tara on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Riley on Instagram, Strava

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Caleb Olson is an ultra-trail runner based in Draper, UT who recently won the Grindstone 100K which simultaneously earned him an auto-qualifier to next year’s CCC and a golden ticket to next year’s Western States 100. 

In this episode, we talk about Caleb’s Grindstone race report, mountaineering background, upward trajectory in the sport, the up-and-coming Salt Lake City trail running scene, and how he’ll approach next season’s slate of high-profile races. 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Timestamps:

• (2:31) - leadup to the Grindstome 100K
• (5:01) - golden ticket to Western States
• (7:18) - mountaineering background
• (11:40) - first half Grindstone race report
• (17:48) - second half Grindstone race report
• (26:56) - mental strength, nutrition fixes for race day
• (35:38) - 2024 racing schedule
• (40:46) - Salt Lake City trail running scene

Links:

• Follow Caleb on Instagram, Strava
• Lambert <10K
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Jonathan Albon is a professional trail runner for the North Face based in Romsdal Norway who recently won the prestigious CCC race in Chamonix, France earlier this summer and in the process punched his ticket to next year’s Western States. 

This conversation covers his early outlook for Western States, his training methodology, and various miscellaneous topics like group training dynamics among elite athletes and specializing at various distances and terrains in our sport. 

Sponsors:

• Naak - use code SINGLETRACK15 at checkout on their website (https://www.naak.com/) to get 15% off your purchase.
• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Follow Jonathan on Instagram, YouTube, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Brad Stulberg has authored many books in the emerging interdisciplinary research field of performance science including his latest, Masters of Change. In this conversation, we tie many of the key takeaways back to the world of mountain ultra trail running specifically discussing topics like willpower depletion, whether talent needs trauma, the benefits of group training, and self-distancing.

Sponsors:

• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack).

Links:

• Order Brad's new book "Masters of Change"
• Follow Brad on Instagram, Twitter, Personal Website
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Scott McCoubrey has influenced many of the most pivotal moments in our sport's recent history. In this conversation, Scott shares fascinating stories from his days hanging out with Krissy Moehl, Hal Koerner, and Scott Jurek on the 2000s Seattle trail running scene, his role in the genesis of sponsored trail athletes, growing the competitive racing scene through the White River 50, and the relationship between the growth of trail running over the last two decades and the greater outdoor industry. 

Timestamps:

• (3:02) - how trail races maintain competitive relevancy over the years
• (23:21) - origins of team marketing in trail running, sponsoring athletes
• (49:59) - Scott Jurek stories, influence of the Seattle trail running scene
• (67:24) - nationalizing, creating more coherence for American trail running
• (84:43) - outdoor industry business challenges
• (94:14) - UROY discussion

Sponsors:

• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)

Links:

• Follow Scott on Instagram, Twitter, Vimazi
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Jim Walmsley joins the podcast to talk about the major takeaways from his UTMB win, the impacts of moving to France last year, how he's managed his career to date and his path to going full-time pro, as well as his thoughts on whether the UTMB system works for elite athletes in our sport. 

Timestamps:

• (1:01) - preparing for a golden ticket chase at Nice Côte d'Azur
• (2:59) - reflecting on career longevity, how he's stayed elite for so long
• (9:09) - curiosity, continuing education in ultra-trail running
• (16:00) - biggest areas of improvement for Jim and for other elites at UTMB
• (25:16) - contextualizing this win, benefits of moving to France for preparation
• (34:17) - key parts of the blueprint for UTMB success
• (49:02) - the other American men have the best chance to win UTMB in the next few years, what's next for Jim
• (59:15) - how Jim creates meaning around his career, how he feels about the overall UTMB system
• (65:26) - miscellaneous questions 

Sponsors:

• Rabbit - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://www.runinrabbit.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)

Links:

• Follow Jim on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig recap the 2023 Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc - the live coverage, major takeaways, top athlete performances, the possible futures of the event, and listener takes.

Sponsors:

• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)

Timestamps:

• (2:02) - Noah Lyles trail running connection
• (6:59) - unequal coverage of the women’s race, UTMB social media wins
• (18:14) - whether Jim need to move to the French Alps to win this race, what he does next
• (39:28) - future dominant storylines now that an American man has won UTMB
• (50:30 - women’s race analysis, interesting statistics
• (68:45) - whether you have to be a full-time athlete now to win UTMB
• (72:24) - men’s race analysis, interesting statistics
• (82:09) - what does Courtney Dauwalter do next 
• (87:42) - other big takeaways from UTMB
• (96:09) - golden tickets from CCC, where the Americas Majors might be in 2024

Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, and Youtube
• Follow AS Fireball on Twitter

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Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the women's field lining up at the 2023 CCC in the UTMB World Series Finals.

Sponsors:

• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)

Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, and Youtube
• Follow AS Fireball on Twitter

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Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the men's field lining up at the 2023 CCC in the UTMB World Series Finals.

Sponsors:

• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)

Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, and Youtube
• Follow AS Fireball on Twitter

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Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the women's field lining up for the 2023 Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc.

Sponsors:

• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)

Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, and Youtube
• Follow AS Fireball on Twitter

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Finn Melanson and Brett Hornig provide in-depth analysis, commentary, and predictions for the men's field lining up for the 2023 Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc.

Note - we will be releasing our women's field preview tomorrow evening (Sunday, 8/27) as well as our CCC previews on Monday and Tuesday of next week. Stay tuned!

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon
• Follow Brett on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and The Feed
• Follow AS Fireball on Twitter

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Eric LiPuma is a professional trail runner for Adidas Terrex preparing for the 2023 CCC in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Eric on Instagram, Strava, Website
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Sabrina Stanley is a professional trail runner for Adidas Terrex preparing for the 2023 UTMB in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Sabrina on Instagram
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Tim Tollefson is a professional trail runner for Craft preparing for the 2023 UTMB in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Tim on Instagram, Strava, Mammoth Trail Fest
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Ruth Croft is a professional trail runner for Adidas Terrex preparing for the 2023 UTMB in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Ruth on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Pau Capell is a professional trail runner for the North Face preparing for the 2023 UTMB in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Pau on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Dakota Jones is a professional trail runner for Nnormal preparing for the 2023 CCC in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Dakota on Instagram, Strava, Footprints Running
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Eszter Csillag is a professional trail runner for Hoka preparing for the 2023 UTMB in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Eszter on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube, and Patreon

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Jennifer Lichter is a professional trail runner for the North Face preparing for the 2023 OCC in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Jennifer on Instagram, Strava
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Courtney Dauwalter is a professional trail runner for Salomon preparing for the 2023 UTMB in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use this link. International listeners - use this link.

Links:

• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Caitlin Fielder is a professional trail runner for Salomon preparing for the 2023 OCC race in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use (https://thefeed.com/pillar). International listeners - use (https://pillarperformance.shop/).

Links:

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• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Tyler Green is a professional trail runner for Nike preparing for the 2023 UTMB race in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use (https://thefeed.com/pillar). International listeners - use (https://pillarperformance.shop/).

Links:

• Follow Tyler on Instagram, Strava, Website
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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Ben Dhiman is a Hoka-supported trail runner preparing for the 2023 UTMB race in Chamonix, France.

Sponsors:

• Brooks Running - check out their High Point clothing collection and new and improved Cascadia 17 shoe at this link (https://www.brooksrunning.com/singletrack)
• Maurten - head over to their website (https://www.maurten.com/) and shop for gels, bars, and drink mixes.
• Kodiak Cakes - use code Singletrack15 at checkout on their website (https://kodiakcakes.com/singletrackpodcast) to get 15% off your next order.
• Feetures - use code Singletrack20 at checkout on their website (https://feetures.com/) to get 20% off your next order.
• Oladance - use code ST at this link (https://oladance.com/ST) to get $30 off the Oladance OWS2 headphones.
• Pillar Performance - use code SINGLETRACK at checkout on their website for 15% off your next order. American listeners - use (https://thefeed.com/pillar). International listeners - use (https://pillarperformance.shop/).

Links:

• Follow Ben on Instagram, Strava, and Substack
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Twitter, Youtube, and Patreon

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