Singletrack

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

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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

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 Kiilian on Instagram, Strava, Website, Nnormal
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

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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
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube
• 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 (editor@escapecollective.com)
• Escape Collective
• Escape Collective Transparency Report
• Ketone Study
• Follow Singletrack on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

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:

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

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

Links:

• Follow Ansel on Instagram, LinkedIn
• 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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

🗣️ “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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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 (chenderson@divcom.com)
• Follow Finn on Instagram, Strava, Youtube

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

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

Support the show