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Ever wondered how an athlete from a small golf town in North Carolina could conquer the world of trail running? Join us as we welcome the godfather of sub-ultra trail running, Andy Wacker, who shares his transformational journey from his hometown of Pinehurst to the professional trail running circuits. Hear about Andy’s early love for nature and bushwhacking, his competitive high school career, and his time running for the University of Colorado in Boulder. Gain insider knowledge on Andy’s ongoing projects, including the Trail Team, and his exciting plans for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

We dig into the hurdles trail runners face when entering elite races, delving into Andy’s personal experiences and the essential mindset shift required to overcome these challenges. From the necessity of a UTMB index score to the financial burdens of self-funding trips to world championships, Andy’s journey is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. Learn about the creation and impact of the Trail Team, an organization designed to nurture emerging trail running talents, and hear the compelling story of Christian Allen, proving the untapped potential in under-the-radar athletes.

Building a supportive community is at the core of trail running's evolution in the U.S., and Andy takes us through the inception and structure of the Trail Team. Discover how avoiding corporate sponsorships allows young athletes to receive genuine mentorship and the freedom to pursue races aligning with their personal goals. From the unique experiences at training camps in Rocky Mountain National Park to tales of overcoming physical and mental challenges in international competitions, Andy’s stories are a blend of resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of passion. Don’t miss out on this enriching conversation with one of trail running’s most influential figures!

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Ready to conquer the peaks with us? This week on Steep Stuff, James Lauriello and Nick Tusa offer a compelling preview of the Cirque Series Snowbird race, doubling as the US Mountain Running Champs. Set your calendars for July 13, 2024, because we’re diving into every grueling detail of this 8.7-mile course featuring a punishing 3,566 feet of vertical gain. From Nick's latest FKTs, including his climb of Mount Shavano, to the anticipated rematch between Christian Allen and Meiki Rosseau, we've got all the high-altitude highlights covered. Plus, updates on standout athletes like Grayson Murphy, Jade Bellsburg, and Anna Mae Flynn will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Are you curious about who’s making waves in the mountain running scene? Tune in as we spotlight key contenders for the upcoming season. Seth James Demore's uphill prowess and recent victories make him a force to reckon with, and we also discuss the rising stars like Christian, Kieran Nay, Cole Campbell, and Hawk Hall. On the women’s side, keep an eye on Megan Lacey, Giselle Slotboom, MK Sullivan, and more. We also break down Taylor Stack's monumental performance at Broken Arrow and his potential to shake things up in future races.

To wrap up, we dive into the excitement building around the US Mountain Running events. Hawk Call’s impressive sixth-place finish at the Broken Arrow 23K and the legacy he’s following from his father, OCR legend Hobie Call, set the stage for an inspiring narrative. We highlight the relentless drive of athletes like Hawk Call, Cole Campbell, Kieran Nay, and others. For the women, Grayson Murphy and AnnaMae Flynn lead a fierce pack including Giselle Slotboom and Jade Belzberg. Get ready for a season full of strategic maneuvers, heart-pounding races, and unexpected twists, all set against the stunning backdrop of the mountain running community.

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Ever wondered how a simple bar bet could give rise to an iconic race that captures the spirit of a mountain town? Join Nick Tusa and me as we uncover the fascinating history of the Kendall Mountain Run in Silverton, Colorado. You'll hear about legendary athletes who've conquered its grueling 12-mile course, including names like Jim Wamsley and David Sinclair, and get an insider look at this year's top contenders. We'll share our own experiences and challenges on the rugged terrain, offering tips and insights for those eager to tackle the race themselves.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. We also venture into the world of vertical racing in Europe, dissecting what sets these competitions apart and profiling formidable runners like Tyler Vierman and Cam Smith. Our passion for trail running shines through as we dream up future adventures and discuss plans for more niche, technical races that push the boundaries of what’s possible. With thrilling personal anecdotes, expert analysis, and a sneak peek into upcoming events, this episode is a treasure trove for trail running enthusiasts. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!