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Mountain running's Greatest of all Time (G.O.A.T), Joseph Gray joins us to offer an inside look at his extraordinary journey in the world of competitive mountain running. With titles like World Mountain Running Champion and 23-time US National Champion, Joseph shares his insights on balancing a demanding athletic career with his role as a father. Joseph opens up about finding renewed passion for cross-country racing after the emotionally challenging loss of a close friend, and the complexities of negotiating with sponsors while preparing for upcoming championships.

The conversation takes us through Joseph's early introduction to trail and mountain running, influenced by iconic figures like Jonathan Wyatt and Marco De Gasperi. Joseph reflects on the legacy of being considered the "Greatest of all Time" and the responsibility that accompanies such recognition. We also touch upon the often overlooked sub-ultra races, highlighting the lack of media attention and financial support for athletes, especially those from diverse backgrounds, despite their impressive feats.

Finally, we explore the strategic thinking required in sports, drawing parallels between mountain running, basketball, and boxing. Joseph’s experiences organizing a kids' trail running camp, along with the importance of maintaining a balance between personal life and passion, offer listeners a comprehensive view of his world. We address important topics like doping in mountain running, strategic aerobic training, and the vibrant running culture in Boulder, while also discussing personal reflections on training, racing, and the importance of community values.

Thank you to Ultimate Direction USA for sponsoring this episode !

Ultimate Direction USA - https://ultimatedirection.com/

LINKS
Joseph Gray Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joegeezi/?hl=en
Joseph Gray Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/journeyofjoegeezi/
COS TRCK (Trail Running Camp for Kids) - https://www.cotrailrun.com/

COS Trail Running Camp for Kids - Check it out if you have a young one ! Our 3 day camp will cover all things trail running. With our coaches, we will help build confidence on and off the trails by demonstrating tools that can be applied in running and in everyday life. Some skills we will learn: the importance of mindset, integrity, discipline, practice, leave no trace, respect for our surroundings, and teamwork! Link - https://www.cotrailrun.com/

Project Inspire Diversity - https://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/a29020178/joe-gray-diversity-in-running/
Please reach out to Joseph through instagram to learn more about donating

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Chrissy Lofgren, the trail running sensation from Colorado Springs, joins us for a thrilling episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast. Chrissy opens up about her spectacular 2024 season, featuring a top 10 finish at the Pikes Peak Marathon and a victory at the Leadville Heavy Half. From her Minnesota roots to college days in Division II athletics, Chrissy shares her journey into the world of trail running, offering insights into how she conquered the challenges of high-altitude racing and embraced the rugged terrain of Colorado. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Listeners will gain a treasure trove of knowledge about altitude training, race strategies, and the mental toughness required to excel in trail running. Chrissy discusses the intricacies of racing at dizzying heights, highlighting her approach to nutrition, mental preparation, and adapting to unpredictable race conditions. We also touch on the importance of gear selection, exploring how choices like using a vest versus a belt can impact performance. Chrissy's experiences serve as a guide for those looking to improve their trail running game or simply understand the mindset of a competitive athlete.

In addition to the technical aspects of trail running, we dive into the joys of integrating skiing into training routines and the exhilaration of wildlife encounters on the trails. The camaraderie within the supportive Colorado Springs running community is a recurring theme, as Chrissy discusses future aspirations, including tackling more local 14ers. We end with a teaser for our upcoming episode featuring Joe Gray, promising exciting news and inviting listeners to help spread the word. Whether you're an avid runner or just love a good adventure story, this episode is packed with inspiration and enthusiasm.

Chrissy Lofgren Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chrissy.lofgren/?hl=en

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On September 2nd, 2024 friend and professional endurance athlete, Michelino Sunseri etched his name in the arena of the gods by breaking Andy Anderson’s FKT on the Grand Teton in 2 hours 50 minutes and 50 Seconds.

In the aftermath of what was undeniably one the of the greatest feats of mountain running the sport had ever seen, Michelino’s record was rejected by Fastest Known Time and Michelino was investigated and charged by the NPS citing violation of 36CFR 2.1(b).

This all came to be due to Michelino’s choice in descent route - where Michelino bypassed a switchback using a historically significant climbers trail, leveraged in the last 6 of 7 established FKT’s on the route.

In the weeks that followed, dozens of articles were written by major outlets that painted Michelino’s effort in a light that did not reflect the facts of what actually took place on September 2nd, 2024.

To help provide a factual account of Michelino’s effort, Alex Rienzie, mountain athlete, community member and photographer on Michelino’s record attempt was kind enough to provide a factual first hand account of the details of Michelino’s effort as well as discuss in detail the climbers trail, Michelino chose that spurred this conversation.

It is my hope that with the conclusion of Michelino’s NPS hearing that FKT would reconsider splitting the route into old and new routes, acknowledging FKT’s prior endorsement of the climbers trail, given its historical significance of 6 of the last 7 records.

Please note that this discussion and any views belong specially to myself and Alex and in no way reflect any statements from Michelino Sunseri.

Grizzlies & Avalanches (Alex's Substack Article) - https://www.grizzliesandavalanches.com/michelino-grand-teton-fkt/

Alex Rienzie Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alexrienzie
Michelino Sunseri Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/michelino_sunseri