Gotta Run Podcast (Norm & Jodi)

Elliot Cardin toed the line at Black Canyon 100k in 2020 as a relative unknown.  He had an epic battle against Hayden Hawks and Charlie Ware. 

On this episode, we chat with Elliot about how he was able to win his Golden Ticket to WS100 and represent team Canada at the 2019 Trail World Championships.

 

Elliot's Website : elliotcardin.com

You can follow Elliot on Instagram here : @elliotcardin

Strava here : elliotcardin

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

On this episode, we feature 53 year old Jeff Bond, an ultra runner from Manitoba.  He has competed in several ultras including the Canadian Death Race, Epic East Gate in Riding Mountain National Park and the Dead Horse Ultra.

He just completed 100 miles on foot at the Yukon Arctic Ultra; a race not for the faint of heart! You can choose your mode of discipline at this event either by foot, cross country skis or mountain bike.  

Jeff is a member of The Manitoba Association of Trail Runners which is associated with the Ultimate Trails of Manitoba series or UTofMB for short (we see what ya did there)!

He is also the director of a race called Rider vs Runner where runners compete against horse riders over a 40K  course with river crossings, steep climbs and descents with approximately 610 meters of gain/loss. 

Here is Jeff....

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Dean Johnson is a Runner, Coach, and one of the Race Director's of the Lost Soul Ultra -  Canada's only 100K Western States 100 qualifying race. LSU is known as the toughest race on the Prairies (and voted “best aid stations in the universe”).

We chat to Dean about the 20+ year history of Lost Soul and how it became a WS100 qualifier.  We also chat about his running career, his recent experience at Black Canyons 100k and his coaching platform.

All that and more.

Here is Dean Johnson...

 

You can follow Dean on Instagram here : rundean

RunDeanRun coaching website here : RunDeanRun

Lost Soul Ultra website here : Lost Soul Ultra

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

 

Where do we start with David Ross? In just over 19 years of running, he has completed over 133 ultra marathons, 158 trail marathons and 170 road marathons, averaging 2 races per month which puts him #409 on the World Megamarathon List.

In Part 1, we chat about the Berlin Wall 100 Miler, How he dislocated his shoulder during the Ecotrail Paris 80K, Daytona 100 and Badwater just to name a few.

David's dry wit and unique storytelling kept us wanting more...Here is part 1.

 

You can follow David on Facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/david.ross.3158

 

You can follow Hermes Running Series here - https://www.instagram.com/hermesrunning/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Dawson Mossman hailing from the Canadian Maritimes, has racked up quite the race resume in a relatively short time.  An avid hiker, adventurer and runner, his quest for ultra is far from over.

What started as a bucket list marathon back in 2013 in New York City, he quickly turned to further distances in remote places around the world.

In this episode, we chat with Dawson about his incredible year, as he not only completed Madeira Island Ultra Trail but Western States and UTMB and he has his sights on several more epic races.

 

Here is Dawson Mossman...

 

You can follow Dawson on Facebook here - Dawson

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at youtube/@gottarunracing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: @gottarunracing

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Hey, everyone! We're back with another exciting episode of the Gotta Run Podcast. It's been a busy two weeks in the world of Gotta Run Racing, and we're thrilled to bring you all the action from the Sulphur Springs Trail Race, Canada's oldest ultra, which was vying for a Western States 100 qualifier.

We kicked things off with a recap of our Lost Treasure Trail Race in Mansfield, which went off without a hitch. Then, we headed to Ancaster, Ontario, to witness history in the making at Sulphur Springs Trail Race. With over 250 runners in both the 100K and 100-mile races, the stakes were high, trying to be the first Ultra Race in Ontario to be a Western States 100 qualifier and the atmosphere was electric.

In this episode, we bring you interviews with top finishers, and many enthusiastic participants. You'll hear firsthand accounts of the race, the challenges faced, and the incredible stories of determination and triumph. From the youngest finishers to seasoned ultra veterans, every runner had a unique tale to tell.

We also delve into the Canadian favourite butter tart debate—raisins or no raisins? And explore the community spirit that makes trail running so special. Despite the crazy weather, including torrential rain and muddy trails, the runners' resilience shone through, making this event truly unforgettable.

Join us as we celebrate the incredible achievements at Sulphur Springs and look ahead to our upcoming adventures, including our races at Rainbow Trail Run and Island Lake Classic. Don't miss out on this epic episode filled with inspiration, laughter, and the pure joy of trail running.

Ontario now has a Western States qualifier, congrats to the race directors of Straw Dog Racing for successfully achieving this for our strong ultra community.

 

Until next time, keep running and stay inspired!

 

Head on over to our YouTube channel and subscribe to not miss any uploaded videos.

If you enjoy our show, please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

In this episode of the Gotta Run Podcast, hosts Jodi and Norm welcome Canadian runner Michal Kapral, an ultramarathon juggler with an impressive list of world records including juggling 3 objects in the half marathon with a time of 1:20:40 in 2014.  His claim to fame is the record for the fastest marathon while juggling three objects in a staggering time of 2:50:12 at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon (STWM) in 2007.

He also held the very first Guinness World Records title ever achieved at the STWM; pushing a stroller, initially set in 2004, running a time of 2:49:44.

Michal shares his unique journey from running marathons to combining his passion for juggling and ultra running, leading to his latest achievement at the Sugarbush Shenanigans put on by Dirty Soles Trail Running.

Discover how Michal transitioned from marathons to ultra distances, his strategy for juggling while running, and the challenges he faced during his record-breaking 115 kilometre run. 

Tune in for a captivating conversation about the art of joggling, the spirit of competition, and the thrill of pushing boundaries. Whether you're a runner, a joggler, or simply a fan of incredible feats, this episode is sure to inspire.

 

Here is Michal...

You can follow Michal on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/marathonjoggler/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Based out of San Francisco, California, 30 year old Anna Kacius is an endurance athlete with an impressive resume, including qualifying for the Olympic marathon Trials in 2020 and competing for Team USA at the 100K World Championships in Berlin 2022.

Anna placed 4th at Black Canyon 100K this year, and recently won the Javelina Jundred 100K breaking the course record by 25 mins with a time of 8:13! She was 2nd overall.

We chat with Anna about all this and more including her plans for next year which include a WSER golden ticket attempt at Black Canyons.

Here is Anna...

You can follow Anna on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/akacius/

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Paul Reader has an extensive running career with over 20 road marathons, 64 ultras and a previous WSER finish.

Watching the WSER Lottery live stream this past December, you couldn't miss Paul as he anxiously awaited hearing his name to be called after 8 long years. With every name pulled from the United Kingdom, there was Paul waving the Union Jack until finally, his name was drawn during the waitlist. 

He recently attempted Hurt 100 for the fourth time, and we don't hesitate to get down to business chatting about that experience. 

Paul resides in a vibrant ultrarunning community that boasts many epic races by CENTURION RUNNING; he fills us on that series and all his ticket races for Western States 100.

Here is Paul...

 

You can follow Paul on Instgram here : https://www.instagram.com/reader_paul/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpIygehlXPgM_AyruXx4Mxw

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

In this episode of the Gotta Run Podcast, we sit down with Kevin McDonald, a passionate race director from Canmore and the mind behind Five Peaks Alberta and TransRockies events. Houda shares his journey from volunteering at the Atlanta Olympics to becoming a key figure in the world of stage races.

Discover how Kevin’s love for community and adventure has led him to create events that inspire people from all walks of life. He reflects on his experiences in race directing, sharing insights into the unique challenges and rewards of organizing events like the Five Peaks series and TransRockies run and Moab Run The Rocks in Moab.

Join us as Kevin recounts memorable stories from his career and offers advice to those looking to dive into the exciting world of stage races.

Tune in for a captivating conversation about the power of racing communities and the friendships formed along the trails.

Here is Houda...

You can follow Kevin on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/houda44/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Join us on the GottaRunPodcast as we dive into the inspiring journey of Leo Vitelli, an ultra runner, personal trainer, and run coach based in Toronto. Once a professional gamer, Leo shares how he transformed his life dramatically in his mid-20s, swapping game controllers for running shoes. Discover how Leo's relentless determination and mental toughness, honed during his gaming days, paved the way for his success in ultra running.

In this episode, Leo recounts his experiences at challenging races like The Divide 200 in Alberta, where he placed 6th overall for men, and Ontario's Sulphur Springs 100 miler. With captivating stories of overcoming physical and mental hurdles, Leo's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or someone seeking motivation to embark on your fitness journey, Leo's story will inspire you to push beyond limits and explore the extraordinary. Tune in to learn more about his coaching philosophy and future aspirations in the world of ultra running.

Here is Leo...

You can follow Leo on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/leo_vitelli/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Welcome back to the GottaRun Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the world of ultra running with Brad Kernohan from Pickering, Ontario. Brad takes us through his recent adventures, including the grueling Tahoe 200 and his experience at the Canyons 100K. Despite facing challenges at his first 100 miler Haliburton 100, Brad's determination and mental grit have driven him to conquer greater distances and tougher terrains.

We also hear about Brad's encounters with wildlife on the trails, and the support he receives from his equally adventurous wife, Cynthia. Brad shares his future plans, including tackling The Divide 200 and potentially the Triple Crown of 200s.

In addition to his running feats, Brad talks about his involvement with Save Our Scruff, a dog rescue organization, and how he balances his passion for ultra running with his commitment to rescuing and rehoming dogs.

Join us for an inspiring conversation and for some rapid-fire fun at the end!

Here is Brad...

You can follow Brad on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/bradkernohan/

Save Our Scruff Website - https://www.saveourscruff.org/

Save 20% by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Welcome back to the Gotta Run Podcast! Join hosts Jodi and Norm as they dive into an extraordinary episode featuring Susan Lowe-Wylde, a 63-year-old ultra-runner who has had an incredible year.

Susan shares her journey from her early days in orienteering to her recent ultra-running accomplishments, including her experiences this year at the Yakima Skyline Rim 50K, Meet the Minotaur Sky Race, Fat Dog 120, and Lost Soul 50K.

Susan's stories are one of resilience, dedication, and passion for the sport. Susan also offers valuable insights and advice for older runners, emphasizing the importance of strength training, mobility exercises, and mental toughness.

Whether you're an experienced ultra-runner or just starting out, Susan's inspiring journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the joy of running at any age. Tune in for an episode filled with motivation, laughter, and incredible tales from the trails.

Don't miss out on this captivating episode of the Gotta Run Podcast!

Here is Susan...

You can follow Susan on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/spryslw/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Hold on to your hats, we have a fun episode for you!

We chat with 32 year old Janosch Kowalczyk from Stuttgart, Germany fresh off his third place finish at Black Canyon which earned him that sought after Golden Ticket to Western States 2023.

Janosch describes his unique entry into ultrarunning and how he quit his job as an Engineer to pursue his dreams.

He is no stranger to challenging races having won MIUT, Mount Fuji Trail, Mozart 100 and more.

We loved his dry sense of humour and honest storytelling.

This is Janosch.

You can follow Janosch on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/vom.gluecker/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Join us in this engaging episode of the Gotta Run Podcast as we revisit a captivating discussion with John Lacroix, director of the renowned Human Potential Running Series, Colorado's largest ultra trail running series. John shares his unique insights into the world of ultra running, revealing the lesser-known realities of the sport and the intricacies of being a race director.

Discover why John believes ultra rankings are overrated and how his approach to race directing defies conventional norms. From handling elite runners' demands to prioritizing community over competition, John's perspective is not only refreshing but thought-provoking.

Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or new to the trails, this episode offers valuable lessons about the spirit of running and the community that surrounds it.

Here is John...

You can follow HPRS on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/hprunningseries/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Jordan first heard about UTMB while on a hike in Chamonix, France before he was a runner. The thought of being able to run the distance in 30hrs after hiking for days intrigued him.

Several years later and 80 lbs lighter his quest to race UTMB is still alive and one day he plans on being at the start line.

You can follow @jordanwickett on Instagram here : www.instagram.com/jordanwickett

Check out Jordans Blog Website here: jordanwickett.com

You can also check out the Vodcast of this interview on our Youtube Ch at Gottarunracing  

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

 

 

Van Phan's running resume is extensive.  On UltraSignup alone as of 2022 she has completed 360 ultra marathons with 143 Trophies and that's just on one platform!

We chat about her first 100 Miler that took place in Canada, Western States 100, her 13 finishes at Cascade Crest to of course running 1000k and winning Across The Years.

She is a wealth of knowledge and we were able to tap into that during this chat.

 

Without further adieu, here is Van Phan ...

 

You can follow Van on Instagram here - vanpigtails

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

 

 

Kathleen Egan's journey into ultrarunning happened by accident; while training for an Ironman, she spent many long training runs surrounded by ultrarunners who convinced her to cross over into the sport.

That was several years ago and since then, she has competed at many well known races including Tahoe Rim Trai 100 Miler, Western States 100 and Cascade Crest 100 to name a few.

She decided to up her game to a 200 miler to celebrate her 50th birthday and what transpired is the focus of our chat with her.  We chat about all this and her big win at Bigfoot 200.

 

Here is Kathleen Egan...

 

You can follow Kathleen on Instagram here - kathleen_egan

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

After relocating from Florida to Utah just prior to the pandemic, Meredith Johnson was eager to find other like minded women to explore her new backyard with and thus, the Women of the Wasatch group was born.

Meredith describes how the group quickly grew from 20 members to over 700 in a very short time and the unique experiences these women continue to share.

Fastpacking the Pacific Crest and Appalachian, completing The Bear 100 miler with support from her group and the importance of endurance sport being accessible to everyone are just a few of the things we chat about in this episode.

 

You can follow Meredith on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/where.is.mere/

You can follow WOW on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/womenofthewasatch_/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here - https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here - https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

We chat with Brian and Heather who completed 16 Half Ironmans and the Big 5 Marathons all in one year.  

How did they pull that off and what motivated them to do it in the first place all on todays podcast.  

Also what is next for them?  Full Ironmans or Ultras?  Listen to find out. 

 

You can also check out the Vodcast of this interview on our Youtube Ch at Gottarunracing  

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

 

 

Hey everyone we are back after a little break, here's a quick recap of our Rainbow Trail Run event that took place last month and a preview of what we are up to next (and why you won't hear a new episode for a few weeks)!

We are off to hike the Alps and then Norman will be running UTMB.  You can track him live on the UTMB site bib #2478

Sneak Peek - Contest Alert, listen in or follow on our socials to learn more!

And finally have a suggestion for who you would like us to chat with next, drop us a line at gottarunracing@gmail.com

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

In this episode, Ana Barroso from Asturias, Spain, now living in the UK, shares her inspiring story of transitioning from road running to ultra running.

Listen as she recounts her recent completion of her first 50K in Andorra, the challenges she faced, and the humour and determination that kept her going through her social media. Ana also discusses her role as an ASICS UK Frontrunner and her exciting future plans in the ultra-running world.

Join us for a conversation filled with laughter, lessons, and the spirit of adventure!

Here is Ana...

You can follow Ana on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/annabarrosoo/

Save 20% by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

John Lacroix, director of Human Potential Running Series, Colorado's largest ultra trail running series was able to pull off the impossible by hosting all of its running events in 2020. Join your hosts Norman and Jodi as we chat with John and ask him how was this possible during a pandemic and while so many other running events had to cancel.   You can also check out the Vodcast of this interview on our Youtube Ch at Gottarunracing  

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

     

Originally from Hungary now based in Hong Kong, Eszter Csillag made the most of her first ever visit to the United States by not only competing in the country's oldest 100 miler Western States 100 but placing 3rd in a very competitive year where records were broken!

The mother of two tells the story of how she gained entry into Western States, her vast experience of racing in South East Asia as well as a detailed recount of her race day from Olympic Valley to Auburn.

Eszter had an exceptional race year in 2022 where she placed 5th at UTMB and  represented her country at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships placing 4th in the long course. 

We chat about all this and more.

Here is Eszter...

You can follow Eszter on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/eszter.csillag/

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Join us as we dive into the world of the Lost Soul Ultra, one of Canada's most challenging ultramarathons. In this episode, we revisit our enlightening conversation with Dean Johnson, the race director of the iconic race known for its grueling terrain and rich history.

Learn about the unique challenges and stories that revolve around this prairie race, and how it became a qualifier for the prestigious Western States 100. Dean shares insights on what makes the Lost Soul Ultra a captivating adventure for runners and race enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're an experienced runner or a curious listener, this episode offers a glimpse into the dedication and passion that fuel this extraordinary race community. Discover the spirit of challenge and camaraderie that defines the Lost Soul Ultra.

Here is Dean...

You can follow Lost Soul Ultra on Instagram here  https://www.instagram.com/lostsoulultra/

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Welcome to another episode of the Gotta Run Podcast! This time, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Ken Slagter, a resilient ultra runner from Ontario, Canada.

Join us as Ken opens up about his remarkable journey to the Western States 100 Endurance Run. From the tough trials of missing out on lotteries to an unexpected health scare in 2023, Ken's love for the sport shines through.

Discover how Ken battled back to finally claim his spot at the coveted Western States 100 race. Listen in as he recounts his experiences at ticket races, the importance of good support systems, and how he's gearing up for the big event.

With a family that's always been supportive and a drive to conquer the trail, Ken's story is a testament to endurance and determination. Don't miss this episode, filled with heart, humour, and a passion for running that goes beyond physical limits!

 

Here is Ken...

You can follow Ken on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/wheresrunnerken/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Jon Rea, fresh off his Javelina Jundred record breaking win with a time of 12:43, earned his third golden ticket to Western States.

We chat about his very first ultra - the Golden Gate Dirty 30 50K back in 2015 and Desert Rats 100k (50k) which earned him a spot at CCC this past summer. 

He also shares his thoughts on the UTMB/WAM controversy and going back to WSER in 2024.

All this and more! Here is Jonathan...

 

You can follow Jon on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/jonrea_sayray/

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Join us on an exhilarating episode of the Gotta Run Podcast as we dive into the world of ultra marathon race directing with Brian Gallant, the mastermind behind Sinister Sports. As one of Canada's premier race directors, Brian shares his journey from being an adventure racer to shaping some of the country's most renowned ultra events, including the Sinister Seven, Canadian Death Race, The Divide 200 and new for 2025 The SOO 200 miler and The Blue Bully Ultra stage both in Ontario.

Tune in to discover the stories behind these legendary races, the inspiration drawn from the trail running community, and the innovative twists that keep participants coming back for more. Whether you're an ultra running enthusiast or curious about the intricacies of race management, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration!

Here is Brian...

You can follow Sinister Sports on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/sinister_sports/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Joanna Ford from Alberta recently finished Hardrock 100 for the first time (and hopefully not the last), placing sixth female overall! 

Peak bagger and outdoor enthusiast, Joanna's foray into ultrarunning started fairly recently but she set her sights on some pretty epic challenges. 

We chat with her about her nine year journey to Hardrock and about her tough qualifiers at Fat Dog 120 and Bighorn 100 that got her there.

She takes us through her day (and a half) at Hardrock 100.  

 

Here is Joanna Ford...

 

You can follow Joanna on Instagram here : jford.welsh

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

Derek Mulhall's first race was a marathon, as he says 'go big or go home.

A few years later he qualified and competed in the Boston Marathon.  Unfortunately it was the year of the Boston bombings.  He decided to go back to Boston in 2014 to have a better experience.  

He got hooked on ultra marathons after his buddy introduced him to the movie Unbreakable.   

We chat with Derek about his first ticket race, The Indiana 100, and almost DNF'ing at Hellbender.  

Here is Derek Mulhall...

 

You can follow Derek on Instagram here : canadianbeerguy

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here: GRRPatreon

Lauren Puretz is a 40 year old practicing gynecologist in Colorado Springs, CO.  She has been running ultras for a few years now and has always been in the mix of things - 5th at Bandera 2021, 7th at Black Canyon 2022, and 4th at last year's Javelina Jundred. 

She is a member of the Colorado Aravaipa running team. Fun fact - she won the Sawatch Ascent 50K in Colorado outright last year and the only other woman to do that was Courtney Dauwalter! 

Lauren earned a golden ticket to Western States 100 by placing 3rd at Black Canyon 100 K a couple weeks ago, much to her own surprise! So stick around and let's get to know Lauren more.  

Here is Lauren...

You can follow Lauren on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/lauren1642/

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

    

Jason Koomen, a Canadian living in the US has been on a quest to complete fifty 100 milers in fifty States. He just completed race # 32 in Vermont at the Vermont 100.

He started this journey in 2014 with Burning River 100 in his home State of Ohio. We met him at the start line of Western States 100 in June and after speaking with him for only a few short moments, we knew we wanted to hear more!

He has chosen some epic races like Hurt 100 in HI the Salt Flats 100 in UT, and Ozark Tr 100 in MO, and several others in this chat.

Here is Jason Koomen...

 

You can follow Jason on Instagram here : nemook27

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

 

Jordan Tropf is a resident orthopedic surgeon at Walter Reid hospital in Maryland and one heck of a runner!

He has an incredible set of running achievements in a relatively short period of time getting a personal best at Boston and winning Big Sur in 2 days. 

He currently holds the world record for the fastest 3 marathons in 3 days. A short documentary by Believe in the Run tells the tale of that journey -

3 Marathons in 3 Days.

We chat with Jordan about that epic achievement as well as his recent top 5 finish at Marathon des Sables and his journey to Ironman Kona this year. 

Here is Jordan...

You can follow Jordan on Instagram here : jordantropf

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here: GRRPatreon

 

Jazmine Lowther of Nelson, BC fresh off of her Golden Ticket win at The Canyons 100, chats with us about her short yet epic journey as an ultra runner.

With a history deep in endurance sports including alpine climbing, skiing and soccer, Jazmine is relatively new on the scene but has already carved out an impressive place at races such as Run Rabbit Run and Chuckanut 50k.

To her utter disbelief, she led the women at Canyons off the start and never let it go. She went into the race believing that the Golden Ticket for Western States was for a 2023 entry and learned afterwards that she would be again toeing the line in California in just over 2 months!

Before that, Jazmine is taking on an Everest Challenge - achieving vert in excess of 9,000 metres, in the hopes of raising $1000 or more for one of her favourite causes, protecting the ecosystems where she lives and trains. You can support her efforts by donating and/or joining her! More information here:

 

You can follow Jazmine on Instagram here - jazminerosalynn

Jazmines Everest Challenge here - Everest Challenge

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here: GRRPatreon

 

 

It's hard to imagine that Amanda Nelson from Woodstock, Ontario started her ultra journey only two short years ago as she's accomplished so much already!  She is the current Canadian female record holder in the 12 hour (with 134 km) and the 100-mile in 14hrs 45min, both achieved at the Survivorfest Ultra in Alberta. Her 33 hrs at Persistence Ultra earned her a spot on the Canadian roster for the World Team Backyard Championship where she became the last female standing with a total of 55 hours / 368.83 km,  Amanda will attempt to break the Canadian 24 hour record in December at Desert Solstice in Arizona where she will toe the line with the likes of Camille Herron. All this while being a full time Mom and part time dairy farm worker. Here is Amanda...

 

You can follow Amanda here : https://www.instagram.com/amanda_nelson/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

We love chatting with fellow Race Directors!

Andrew Fairhurst is the co-director of North America's only qualifier of the Skyrunner World Series, billed as the most technical racing circuit in the World. The Minotaur Skyrace takes place in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta in June and features 2900 metres of elevation gain over 33 kilometres with a 12 hr time limit tells you the difficulty of this event. 

Andrew shares details on how to tackle this challenging course as well as the incredibly active community that is growing in and around this corner of Alberta.

Andrew and Norman share stories from the 2005 Canadian Death Race, where not only they raced against each other but it was the first ultra for both of them. 

Here is Andrew...

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

You can follow Andrew on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/andygood75/

Meet The Minotaur website here - https://meettheminotaur.com/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Sarah Seads from British Columbia began her running journey as an adventure racer. While she enjoyed multi discipline sports, she found herself excelling as a solo runner.   Not shy of long distances, the first ultra she completed was the Canadian Death Race, 125km in Grande Cache, Alberta.   After the Death Race, Sarah set her sights on Western States 100.  Her ticket race was The Lost Soul Ultra where she either won or placed the 3 times she completed them.     Sarah became one of the Lucky Canadians when her name was called for the 2020 WS100.  Now she waits until she can finally compete.     Here is her story..  

You can Follow Sarah on Instagram here : wildseads

Check out Sarah's Coaching Website here : ELMHealth

Check out Sarah's Website here : wildseads

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

Rohan Aurora was a hiker before becoming an ultra runner.  He made the switch when his virtual hiking guru, Andrew Skurka, an American professional backpacker, came in second in the Run Rabbit Run race.  After reading about Andrew's journey in this event, Rohan felt he needed to learn more about the ultra scene. 

From there Rohan has never looked back completing races like the Mogollon Monster 100k, Lone Star 100k, and Kodiak Ultra 100 just to name a few. 

We chat to Rohan about all this and his two Western States 100 ticket races at The Georgia Death Race and his two Hurt 100 DNFs.  All this and more. 

Here is Rohan...

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here: GRRPatreon

 

Mandy Wallace competed in the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB). 

UTMB is regarded as one of the most difficult foot races in the world.  It is often considered the Olympics of the Ultra world community.

Mandy had her sights on this race since she was a kid, and thought she would never be able to compete in it after suffering severe knee injuries in university.

With her determination and driving force, she started to train in 2018, with marathons in New Zealand, the Chase The Coyote 50k in Ontario, (which she won), Bromont Ultra 160k in Quebec and Oman Ultra in the middle east.

Even while she suffered through stomach issues, knee pain, and of course was sleep deprived she still managed to get it done in over 45hrs.  

This is Mandy's story... 

 

You can follow Mandy on Instagram here : nurse_wallace

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our Youtube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

 

When Norma toed the line at this year's Badwater 135 she had no idea that not only she would place 2nd female but also earn herself a new course record for her age group. 

We chat with Norma about how she started her ultra running career, her win at Lost Souls Ultra in 2006, what made her choose Badwater and what other records she will be trying to break in the future and her charity. 

 

You can follow Norma on Facebook here : Norma Roberts

Check out Norma's charity here : Georgia Klap Award

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

Marcus Kjellberg is an ultra runner with diabetes and content creator from Sweden.  We came across one of his YouTube videos that he created about the Val D’Aran race in Spain last year - it’s an event put on by UTMB and some say the 100 miler is equal to or harder than the UTMB’s 100 miler.

During his Val D'Aran experience it turned into a lightning show and the race was stopped,  what happened next? 

We also chat with Marcus about some of his other YT videos such as his UTMB and Kullamannen 100 races.  

 

Here is Marcus...

 

You can follow Marcus on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/marcus.kjellberg/

Marcus YouTube Chanel link here : https://www.youtube.com/@MarcusKjellberg

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

We first spoke with Steve Day in 2022 when he was a guest on our Canadian Trail to Western States series Ep 38. He's back in 2023 to chat about his experience at Western States 100 and his unexpected entry into the 2023 running of UTMB.

Norman and Steve chat in detail about their shared experience from the training camp to the start line in Olympic Valley, all the way to the track in Auburn and one thing is for certain, the hype is real!

Steve has a solid training plan underway for UTMB. He is looking forward to new experiences including an evening race start and running through the night not once but twice!

Here is Steve...

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

You can read Steve's blogs here:

Western States Training Camp - https://almostultra.blogspot.com/2022/05/western-states-training-camp.html

Western States Endurance Run - https://almostultra.blogspot.com/2022/07/western-states-endurance-run.html

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Stephanie Maggs was on her way to join the Seven Continents Marathon Club if it wasn't for Covid 19.

We also chat about her adventure with triathlons which led her to running marathons for Team Diabetes.

You can follow @stephanie.maggs on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/stephanie.maggs/

Check out her website here: www.wickedlydeliciouswicks.com

You can also check out the Vodcast of this interview on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Welcome to our channel,

Our Podcast series tells the trail and Ultra running stories as told to us by average and not so average athletes. We seek the untold tales of everyday runners. Brought to you by GottaRunRacing Series.

Please join your hosts Norman and Jodi, Directors of GottaRunRacing.com as we discover the ascents and descents of trail running.

You can also check out the Vodcast of this interview on our Youtube Ch at Gottarunracing  

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter Here : GRRTwitter

 

Chelsey's introduction to trail running began when she jumped in with both feet onto a Canadian Death Race relay team.  From there, as she puts it, she fell into the wrong crowd (LOL) and decided to take on CDR solo in 2015, earning her first Western States 100 ticket. 

She was determined to earn her ticket to WS100 by completing races like Lost Soul, Hurt 100, Run Rabbit Run, and Javelina 100.  

Chelsey also competed for Team Canada in Laz's Big Dog's Backyard Ultra in 2020, completing 40 loops on a 7K looped course. 

Here is our chat with Chelsey...

 

You can follow Chelsey on Instagram here : chasingwinston

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

 

 

 

Wow Wow Wow !!

What a year 2022 has been.

We added 3 more trail races to our growing GottaRunRacing series and we have added more content on our YouTube Channel with more virtual runs and running adventures along with our Podcast chats.

If you like what you see or hear, please be sure to give us a like, comment, review wherever you listen to us, we would really appreciate it.  

Here is our 2022 year end review....

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Kevin 'Houda' McDonald is the Race Director for 5 Peaks Alberta, VP of the TransRockies stage run and RD of the newly formed Moab Run the Rocks stage race.

From the first moment of our chat with Kevin, his passion for racing quickly shone through. 

We enjoyed hearing about his origin story from working in two Olympic games to becoming an RD,  and his innate ability to make lifelong friends from all the folks who run his races.

Here is Kevin...

You can follow Kevin on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/houda44/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Wow Wow Wow !!

What a year 2023 has been, we hit 100 episodes and chatted with amazing ultra athletes.

The 4 events in our Gotta Run Racing series were a success and we have added more content on our YouTube Channel with new virtual runs, our running adventures and Podcast chats.  Head on over to our Youtube channel and subscribe to not miss any uploaded videos.

If you enjoy our show, please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Norman finally made it to the start line of the UTMB after reading about it in a magazine fifteen years ago.  The idea of running through 3 countries, (France, Italy, Switzerland) has been on his mind ever since. 

This is his race recap and Jodi’s perspective of race crewing (well, kinda).

Listen to hear his thoughts on the start line atmosphere, climbing over 10,000 metres, sleep deprivation, hallucinating, cutoffs, two sunrises and finally crossing the finish line!

Here are your hosts Norman and Jodi...

You can follow Norman on Instagram here : theultranorm You can follow Jodi on Instagram here : sharkrunner17

 

If you enjoyed our show, please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Kat Drew, one of Canada's top ultra runners, came 8th in the 2019 Western States 100 which earned her a spot in the 2021 Western States.  

While it was a different race experience, she was still able to finish under 24hrs which made her the top Canadian two years in a row.

We chat with Kat about her running career which includes her first place finish at Zion 100 and her Golden ticket race at the Canyons 100K.

This is her story...

 

You can follow Kat on Instagram here : katdrew

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

The Sulphur Springs Trail Race is a 20K loop course, in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area just outside of Hamilton, Ontario that has been running for more than 30 years, making it the oldest running Ultra Marathon in Canada!  Distances offered include 10k up to 100 miles. 

This year, the race seeks to become Ontario’s first Western States 100 qualifier - which would be a huge accomplishment - so we reached out to the trio of Race Directors from Straw Dog Racing which includes Steve Connor, Mauro Campanelli, and Russell Thacker, to get their insights on the legacy of this iconic spring race and how they are approaching the challenge ahead.

Here is Straw Dog Racing…

You can follow Sulphur Springs Trail Race on Instagram here  - https://www.instagram.com/sulphurspringstrailrace/

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

We're back with part two of Gareth Jones' amazing journey. If you haven't listened to the first episode, we strongly recommend you do because it reveals his incredible backstory and what has led him to take on the adventures in ultra running.  In this episode, we dive into Gareth's experience running the Swiss Alps 100, a race known for its stunning scenery and challenging terrain.

Gareth shares why he chose this particular race and the preparation that went into it. He talks about the unexpected challenges he faced, including the harsh realities of high altitude running and the mental hurdles that came with it. Despite these obstacles, Gareth's determination and love for running helped him push through to the finish line.

We also get a glimpse into Gareth's life beyond racing, including his social media presence as the "Mental Health Wanderer" and his new venture into coaching. Gareth's story is one of transformation and resilience, making him an inspiring figure for anyone facing their own battles.

Don't miss out on this captivating episode that not only highlights the physical demands of ultra-running but also the mental fortitude required to overcome life's toughest challenges.

Here is Gareth...

You can follow Gareth on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/mental_healthwanderer/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Ultra runner Theresa Nielsen from Alberta is the 2022 Female Triple Crown Winner!

The illustrious Triple Crown includes Tahoe 200, Big Foot 200 and Moab 240, an astonishing total of over 1,000 kilometres in less than 4 months time.

Theresa completed these epic races in a combined time of 261:09:00 hours, just wow!

Not to mention, she started off the year at Hurt 100, a race she has completed and/or volunteered at for several years running.

We chat with Theresa about all of these races as well as the claimed 'world's toughest mountain race - the multi-day Dragon's Back event in Wales. 

 

Here is Theresa...

 

You can follow Theresa here : https://www.instagram.com/rxtrails/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

If you haven't yet heard the name Meghan Morgan, it won't be long before she becomes a regular on the ultra podium.

Meghan started running with her mom as a middle-schooler, and completed the Boston Marathon at the ripe age of 17.

When she switched over to the trails, she set her sights on a Western States Golden Ticket almost immediately with attempts at Bandera 100K (4th)  and The Canyons 100K (8th) in 2022.

She put on an impressive performance at Black Canyon 2023 and earned that ticket to the big show with a third place finish.

Meghan's flexibility to alter her race plans and determination make her an exciting runner to watch, we can't wait to see her in Auburn this June!

Here is Meghan..

 

You can follow Meghan on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/gomegmo/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Join us in this exciting episode of the Gotta Run Podcast as we dive deep into the world of trail running with Jordan Brett, a 32-year-old runner from Vancouver, British Columbia.

Originally hailing from the UK, Jordan shares his journey from his early days in team sports to becoming the first male finisher at the Javelina 100K.

Jordan takes us through his transformative running experiences, from reading Scott Jurek's "Eat and Run" to tackling challenging races like the Chuckanut 50K, Canyons 100K, and Hood 100M. Discover how he overcame the intense Arizona heat and navigated the unique challenges of the Javelina race to secure a stunning victory.

With engaging stories and insights, Jordan's journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the world of ultra-running. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, adventure, and a touch of humour.

Here is Jordan...

You can follow the Sri Chinmoy team on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/scmtny/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Join us in this thrilling episode of the Gotta Racing Podcast, where we have an insightful discussion with Andrew Fairhurst, the co-director of the renowned Minotaur Sky Race in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta.

As Canadas only qualifier for the Skyrunner World Series, this unique event challenges athletes with 2,900 meters of elevation gain over a 33.5K course, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian Rockies.

Andrew shares his passion for the sport and explains the challenges of organizing such a demanding race. He talks about the origins of the Minotaur race, its evolution, and its significant place within the international skyrunning community.

We delve into the race logistics, safety measures, and the community's growing enthusiasm for trail running and outdoor adventures. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring skyrunners and those curious about the sport's growth and its potential inclusion in future Olympic games.

 

Here is Andrew...

You can follow Meet The Minotaur on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/meettheminotaur/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Moab Run the Rocks - Stage 3 Recap - final leg!

We are joined by Eric, Heather and Jonathan on today's final episode. 

The last stage was challenging for different reasons (could be because we had already covered 64K)!!

All were in agreement that the inaugural Moab Run the Rocks was an epic adventure that we won't soon forget!

Kudos to Transrockies Running Events for an amazing job well done - if you are looking to try a stage race, we highly recommend you check this one out!

 

Here is Stage Three Recap...

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

 

Anthony Costales fresh off his impressive win at Black Canyon, takes us through that epic race that earned him a Golden Ticket to Western States 100.

Anthony belongs to the growing group of uber-fast marathoners (2:13 PR) that have recently taken the Ultra scene by storm.

Earning his ticket and setting the new course record, Anthony's performance will be remembered as a gritty, no guts no glory run for the ages!

We chat about all this and more

Here is Anthony...

You can follow Anthony on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/acostales54/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Welcome to this exciting episode of the Gotta Run Podcast! We dive into the world of ultra running with Canadian ultra runner Madeline Wighardt, aka Maddie.

In this episode, Maddie recounts her experiences at the the Leadville Trail 100 fighting for third, and her recent experience at Western States 100, where she earned a coveted silver buckle by finishing under 24 hours. 

Whether you're an ultra running enthusiast or new to the sport, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the world of long-distance trail running.

Don't miss out on this episode with Maddie Wighardt—an inspiring athlete with an incredible story of determination and resilience!

 

Here is Maddie…

You can follow Maddie on Instagram here  - https://www.instagram.com/maddiewighardt/

 

Save 20% by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

We unbox a pair of brand new running shoes, model name Goshawk, from the Australian brand, Tarkine.

Tarkine is a new company who has based their concept around recyclable and eco-friendly materials. They took their campaign to Kickstarter and were able to fund their first model in less than a week.

Suitable for anyone who cares about the planet, comfort and style. #RunTheFuture

 

Best to watch this unboxing on our YouTube Channel here : GottaRunRacing

 

You can follow Tarkin Running on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/tarkinerunning/

Website : Tarkine

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

 

Said arrivederci to Italy, Bonjour to Switzerland today! Headed out from Val Ferret just outside Courmayeur and climbed almost 800 metres in about 6K to arrive at the Grand Col Ferret bordering the two countries.

Lush mountainsides, herds of sheep and more cowbell please!

Oh, and finally some epic downhill running - WOOT!

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

This episode features fellow Dufferin County podcaster, Shawn Sobon Host of Trail Tales ARP. 

We will learn how Shawn's love for running led him to start his own podcast and about his new passion, canicross running.

In turn, you can listen to Shawn's interview of us in his episode 15.

You can follow @trail_tales_arp on Instagram here : www.instagram.com/trail_tales_arp

Check out Shawn's website here: www.trailtalesarp.com

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

Ultrarunner and coach Robbie Britton recently broke the 24-hour British record which has stood since 1982!  He covered a distance of 277.439 km in a  24-hour continuous race, involving laps of Ruffini Park, in Turin. He gives us insight on how he was able to achieve this amazing feat.

His thirst for adventure has led him on some incredible journeys including a 650km record breaking crossing from north to south of Jordan with fellow British ultra runner Dan Lawson in 2019.  The film Lost Dogs & Englishmen captures this adventure perfectly.

We talk about his book 1001 Running Tips for every runner (a must read!) and we discuss the excitement building around the World Mountain and Trail running championships in Austria later this week.

All this and more, here is Robbie...

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Robbie Britton website for coaching and adventures _ http://robbiebritton.co.uk/

You can follow Robbie on Instagram here _ https://www.instagram.com/p/CpUVEFvo9jC/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Edmonton based runner Priscilla Forgie had never heard of Western States 100 when she ran her first ultra back in 2019 and now, thanks to an incredible performance at The Canyons has earned herself a ticket to the big show this June.

While her running history is relatively short to this point, she definitely has racked up some impressive performances at races such as Ultra-Trail Harricana, Squamish 50/50, and The Canadian Death Race.

2023 is shaping up to be an amazing year of racing for her with WSER just around the corner, and CCC in Chamonix waiting in the wings. Priscilla is part of a growing crop of incredible athletes from Canada that is taking the ultra scene by storm! 

Here is Priscilla...

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

You can follow Priscilla on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/prissyforgie/

You can support FARRM here - https://www.farrmrescue.org/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Ultramarathoner Sébastien Roulier is constantly looking for new challenges; if he is not representing Canada in world championship races then he is breaking world records on his own. 

He held the Guinness Records in the half marathon and marathon in the Shared event (pushing someone in a wheelchair) and currently holds the records in the 100 km and the 24hr timed event 185.5 km in the duo distance.

He also raised money for the food bank in his home town of Sherbrooke, Quebec by running 430 km in less than 4 days.

All this and more,

Here is Sébastien Roulier...

 

You can follow Sébastien on Instagram here : sebastienroulier

Sébastien's website here : www.sebastienroulier.com

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Jakob Herrmann is a Swiss living in California, and an experienced runner who has completed an incredible number of races including seventy-nine marathons, over fifty 50K’s, and twenty-five 100 milers. His first ultra was back in 2005 at the JFK 50 - go big or go home!   

Some of his more notable races include Javelina 100, Rio Del Largo 100, and Man vs Horse. 

Jakob is also the race director of the Swiss Alps 100 which is a qualifier for three of the biggest North American races - Hardrock, Western States 100, and Badwater 135. It includes over 10,000 metres of climbing in a stunning setting around the Alps.

Which means you better sign up early for the Swiss Alps 100 because it will sell out quickly!

All this and more so stick around

Here is Jakob...

You can follow The Swiss Alps 100 on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/swissalps100/

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Arden Young from Calgary joins us to chat all things running.  Fresh off her win at The Desert Rats Trail Race where she qualified for UTMBs CCC (listen to hear more on that), 

Arden has impressive performances at some big name races like Bandera 100K, Run Rabbit Run and Javelina Jundred Stateside as well as winning Lost Soul Ultra and Sinister 7 in Canada.

She earned her spot on Team Canada to compete in the upcoming World Mountain and Trail Running Championship (long course) this June in Innsbruck, Austria.

Arden is in the midst of making a move to be closer to the mountains where she plans to make the most of her new surroundings.

Here is Arden...

 

You can follow Arden on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/ardenly/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Stephanie Simpson is an ultrarunner hailing from La Belle Province - Quebec.

She is relatively new to the scene but has chalked up an impressive race resume so far with events such as Javelina 100, representing Canada and winning at Big Dog's Backyard and more recently completing the Cocodona 250.

We chat with her about those events, her dreams to run Badwater and much more!

Here is Stephanie...

You can follow Stephanie on Instagram here : steph_ultrarunner

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here: GRRPatreon

Hot off the Arizona trails is Becca Windell, celebrating not only her podium finish at Black Canyon 100k but capturing one of the elusive golden tickets to Western States 100K.

Her passion for wildlife led her down the path to her career as a biologist, studying diseases threatening the fauna in the American west.

We also chat about her experience at The Bear 100 in 2021; her only 100 miler to date and what she learned at The Canyons in 2021 that helped her to succeed at this year's Black Canyons.

She also shares her dreams of racing in the new World Trail Majors series and her answers to rapid-fire questions about her life, career, and interests add a fun twist to the episode.

Here is Becca Windell...

You can follow Becca on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/beccawindell/

Looking for a running coach? Becca's website here - https://www.beccawindell.com/

About Home Range wildlife research here - https://www.homerange.org/home

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Aytug Celikbas (pronounced I-2) starting running to lose weight with a couch to 5K program.  He quickly progressed to the half, full and beyond. 

He started running the ultra distance in his home country of Turkey at the Cappadocia Ultra Trail and after that race, he was hooked.  From there he went on to longer and harder ultras like the Iznik Ultra and Lavaredo Ultra Trail.

After moving to Canada in 2017, Aytug  began working on tickets for Western States 100 at UTMB, Cruel Jewel 100, and Ultra-Trail Harricana in Quebec.  

Aytug never dreamt that his name would be drawn so soon in the WS lottery but he is excited to be heading to the start line at Western. 

Here is Aytug Celikbas...

 

You can follow Autug on Instagram here : acelikbas

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

 

 

Dawn Desarmeau is an athlete who has struggled with her weight for years. When dieting and exercise failed, she elected to have a vertical banded gastroplasty in 1998. Ten years later, due to complications, she had to undergo corrective surgery. 

In 2011, she decided to go for a run around her block and hasn't looked back since. 

This is her journey from 5K to ultramarathons.

 

Dawn's Huffpost Article : Huffpost Article

 

You can Follow Dawn on Instagram here : ultradawn5

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

Brian Gallant director of Sinister Sports found his way to race directing over twenty years ago after participating as an adventure racer for many years.  His company, Sinister Sports, produces some of Canada's most iconic ultras including Sinister 7, the Canadian Death Race, Black Spur and recently announced, The Divide 200 - Western Canada's only 200 miler.

We chatted with him days before the live lottery is to take place (Monday, December 5) and were encouraged to hear that the response so far has been epic!

Brian provides a sneak preview into that course as well as the history behind his other ultras. 

Here is Brian Gallant..

You can follow Sinister Sports here : https://www.instagram.com/sinister_sports/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Ailsa MacDonald may not have been a household name outside of Canada leading into the 2022 Western States 100 but her incredible performance has the ultra world buzzing now!  

We chatted with her after she won her golden ticket at Bandera 100K about her 2018 Western States performance as well as her goal to improve her standings at this year's race.

Here is our Encore chat with Ailsa MacDonald...

 

You can Follow Ailsa on Instagram here : ailsamacdonaldrunner

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

Mike Obery from South Africa was introduced to running by his brother a few years back and since then, he has been on a tear checking off his Western States  100 qualifiers.

We met Mike at the Cappadocia Ultra Trail in Turkey and was instantly drawn to his warmth and passion for life. 

He tells us how Western States 100 has motivated him and is his ultimate ultra goal.

Along the way, he has completed some pretty epic races including Ultra Trail Cape Town and Karkloof 100 Miler in South Africa.

We have no doubt he will be toeing the line in Olympic Valley, California in the near future!

Here is Mike Obery...

 

You can follow Mike on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/mikeobery/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Where do we begin with Beverley Anderson-Abbs?

Her 198 trophies on UltraSignup gives you an indication of what type of athlete she is but during our chat we narrowed it down to some specific races that really put her name out there.

We discuss how her knee injuries almost kept her off many a start line, about her early days as an adventure racer and experiences at Eco-Challenge and Primal Quest and her 4 top place finishes at Western States 100. Not to mention her grand slam attempt, and of course The Barkley Marathons, and her latest win at The Last Annual Heart of the South Road Race in 2020; a race that is 326 miles in length.    

Here is Beverley Anderson-Abbs.  

 

You can follow Bev on Instagram here : bevruns

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

When we last spoke to Stephanie Maggs in 2021 (episode #7), we chatted about her quest to join the Seven Continents Marathon Club which was delayed by COVID-19.  Stephanie finally made the journey to Antarctica to complete her 7th marathon to enter the exclusive club.  Does she complete the marathon?  Did the pandemic continue to plague her efforts? These answers and more are answered in our follow up chat with Stephanie.  

Here is Stephanie...

You can follow @stephanie.maggs on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/stephanie.maggs/

Check out her website here: www.wickedlydeliciouswicks.com

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

We chat with Rachel Sklar about her epic 2019 year when she attempted to complete 12 Ultras in 12 Countries in 12 Months.  

She tells us all about the good, the bad, and the ugly on this journey and what lies ahead in 2021.  

You can also check out the Vodcast of this interview on our Youtube Ch at Gottarunracing  

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

 

If you haven't listened to Part 1 of David Ross's adventures yet - check it out first and then come back for more!

This time we cover Comrades, which he has run over 10 times, his Western States 100 2x, Leadville, his impressive Guinness World Record at the London Marathon (3:25hrs in a full 4mm wetsuit in 2013) and his goal to race in all 28 European Economic countries.

We also chat about his RD experience as leader of the Hermes Running race series in the UK.

Here is part 2 with David Ross.

 

You can follow David on Facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/david.ross.3158

 

You can follow Hermes Running Series here - https://www.instagram.com/hermesrunning/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here - https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here - https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Ryan Van Duzer (DuzerTV) host/content creator/motivational speaker is all about inspiring people to get off the couch and explore this beautiful planet. He has appeared on the Travel Channel, Discovery Channel, Men's Journal, National Geographic and many other national outlets.

It all started when he rode his bike 4000 miles from Honduras to Boulder, Colorado after a volunteer mission.  That ride kicked off an incredible quest to explore the world on two wheels. He also loves to run and has completed the Javelina 100 3xs and more recently,  Leadville 100. He is one of the OG YouTuber's and has documented his adventures on his channel @DuzerTV

Here is Ryan Van Duzer!

 

You can follow Ryan on Instagram here : duzer

Ryan Van Duzer's website : duzertv

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

You can also check out our Youtube Channel at GottaRunRacing

On March 2, 2022, UTMB organizers published a press release informing runners of their intent to “immediately suspend Russian and Belarusian athletes from all events operating under the UTMB® brand, i.e. the 25 UTMB® World Series events including the UTMB® Mont-Blanc from 22 to 28 August”, until further notice.

In this episode, we discuss this decision from a race organizer and runner point of view. 

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

 

We (Norm and Jodi) your hosts head down to Arizona for a training run at Aravaipa Running's Elephant Mount Trail Race, taking on the 50K distance. 

We wanted to escape the Canadian winter weather for a few days and get in some desert training in preparation for Jodi's first stage race coming up in Moab, Utah - Run the Rocks.

Follow along as we encounter a previous podcast guest Noel Kingston Eps #17 and more than one wipeout and rocks...a lot of rocks!

It's always great fun and challenging running in the desert!

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

After an amazing season of directing races, we took off for Cappadocia, Turkey to participate in one of the most scenic races we have ever experienced.

Salmon Ultra Trail Cappadocia features distances of 119K, 63K and 38K in the recognizable region of fairy chimneys and hot air balloons.

Our 38K was full of oohs and ahhs around every corner, we might has well turned off our Garmins as time was our least concern.

Listen in as we cover every aspect of the race from registration to post race meal.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at youtube/@gottarunracing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Check out GRR Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.ca/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

We are off to Slovenia soon to race the Ultra Trail Vipava Valley UTVV for short on April 27. It will be our first time there and it came on our radar after our chat with Canadian Galen Reynolds in Episode 81 who lives and trains near the capital, Ljubljana.

Since we know very little about this part of the world or these trails we figured why not ask someone who has run the course, so we reached out to runner Anze Sobocan who not only has run the race but has completed every distance this event has to offer including several podium finishes.

Anze is 39 and a member of Team Salomon Slovenia.  He has racked up quite a few race results in a relatively short period of time including many events in Slovenia and neighbouring countries of Croatia and Austria.

We chat about the Istria 100 which has the oldest start line in the world at 3000 years old and the Swiss Ultra Tour Monte Rosa 100 miler his hardest race to date and then of course, Ultra Trail Vipava Valley UTVV.

Here is Anze Sobocan…

You can follow Anze on Instagram here  - https://www.instagram.com/anze.sobocan/

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

I'm Norman, your co-host of the GottaRunRacing podcast, and on this 50th episode we breakdown my 8 year journey and race recap of this year's Western States 100.  Over the past 2 years, Jodi and I have chatted with so many athletes about their trail to Western States, we are thrilled to have finally made it to the big show.  

2020 was supposed to be my golden trifecta of running races after successfully qualifying for Boston and gaining lottery entry to both UTMB and WS100 but the pandemic had other plans.

Fresh from the finish line, we chat about the trials and tribulations that we faced getting to the start line, during the race and overall impressions about the entire experience from our viewpoints.

Here are your hosts Norman and Jodi...

 

You can follow Norman on Instagram here : theultranorm

You can follow Jodi on Instagram here : sharkrunner17

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here : GRRPatreon

Kevin MacKinnon For over 30 years Kevin has been coaching triathletes, runners, cyclists and swimmers, helping both international stars and age group competitors reach their own level of personal excellence.  Since retiring from a nine-year career as a professional triathlete, Kevin has also become one of triathlon's busiest journalists. He has worked as the Communications Director of Ironman North America, the Editor in Chief of Ironman and is the founding editor of Triathlon Magazine Canada. In addition to his journalism work he is one of Canada's premier race announcers.  

Kevin recently covered the 2022 edition of the Marathon Des Sables stage race in Morocco and we were able to get his take on what it was like behind the scenes.  We chat with Kevin about what it took just getting to MDS and covering his first Ultra Marathon.  

Here is Kevin...

 

You can follow Kevin on Instagram here : ironmandad

Kevin Mackinnon coaching : www.mackatak.net

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Support us on Patreon here: GRRPatreon

 

In this episode, your hosts Norm and Jodi are joined by Devin Featherstone, an accomplished ultra runner from Calgary, Alberta. 

Devin shares his journey in the ultra running world, from his first race at the Canadian Death Race to his multiple podium finishes at the Lost Soul Ultra. He also provides invaluable tips for those preparing for Lost Soul, covering everything from gear choices to course strategies.

Tune in to hear Devin’s insights, his experiences with races like Hurt 100 and Western States 100, and his thoughts on the challenges of ultra running. 

Get ready to be inspired and informed as you prepare for your next ultra marathon adventure. Happy running!

Here is Devin...

You can follow Devin on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/dfeatherstone/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Ailsa Macdonald is no stranger to endurance sports.  She began competing in Triathlons in her early 20s and went on to win the Canadian National Ironman in 2018 and Ironman Santa Rosa 2019.   Before that, she tried her hand at ultra running and in 2017 she won both the Canadian National 50k race and was the first winner overall at the Canadian National 100 miler at Sinister 7.   Her road to Western States started when she won the Black Canyon 100k beating Courtney Dauwalter to earn her a Golden Ticket in 2018.   Things didn't go to plan at WS100 2018 so she earned her second Golden Ticket with a win at Bandera 100k in 2020 and winning Tarewara 2020.    Now she waits to cash in that Golden Ticket for WS100 2022.   Here is her story..      

You can Follow Ailsa on Instagram here : ailsamacdonaldrunner

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

In todays episode we chat with Brandon Miller fresh off his win at the Moab Run The Rocks 3 day stage race. 

We met Brandon Miller at the start line of Moab Run the Rocks on Day 2, after he had won the first stage in speedy fashion!

His first ultra was the Canadian Death Race in 2017, which he won describing it as a perfect day .

He also racked up wins at Lost Souls in 2021 and Freaky Creeky which qualified him for the 2023 World Mountain and Trail Running Championship in Austria.

Black Canyons remains on his list of races yet to figure out, but we are confident he will one day!

You can follow Brandon on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/brandonruns/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here - https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here - https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Returning to the podcast is Ihor Verys.  Based in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Ihor is the first Ukranian-Canadian finisher and ultimate winner of the 2024 The Barkley Marathons!

Ihor has been very busy since we last spoke to him after his Fat Dog 120 win in 2022 including runner up at Big’s Backyard World Championship running over 715k last year and a win at Hurt 100 this year.

We touch on a few key elements from those two races and then dive into The Barkley Marathons.  In a year that saw five finishers in total including the first woman, Jasmin Paris, Ihor was the winner in 58 hours, 44 minutes.

After spending just a short time with Ihor virtually, it is obvious to us that he is an incredible human being and true ambassador for ultra running. 

We wrap up our chat with a light-hearted rapid-fire segment so be sure to listen to the end. 

Here is Ihor Verys…

You can follow Ihor on Instagram here  - https://www.instagram.com/ihorverys/

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Welcome back for another episode of the Gotta Run Podcast. We were thrilled to collaborate with Adam Lee, the dynamic host of the Community Trail Running Podcast, for a 2 for 1 episode!

We chat with Adam about his journey from Ontario to the BC Coast and his recent relocation to Canada's hot spot for trail running; Crowsnest Pass. He details his passion for running and how it led to his podcasting endeavours.

We delve into his personal experiences with notable races such as the Finlayson Arm ultra and the Squamish 50-50 and his ambitious plans for future ultra challenges like the Moab Run the Rocks stage race.

Join us for this engaging chat where we also discuss the unique community spirit of trail running, and Adam's insights on managing a successful podcast (we compare notes)!

We were also guests on Adam's podcast where we revealed our foray into the worlds of trail running, Race Directing and podcasting! Be sure to check it out via his Instagram page below.

Here is Adam...

You can follow Adam and his podcast on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/communitytrailrunning/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

We are LIVE on location in Moab, Utah for Run the Rocks presented by Transrockies Running Events to recap Stage 1 with our guests Helen Butt and Jonathan Ring.

Due to inconsistent weather, the Race Directors have changed the course several times over the last 48 hours but they still came up with a doozy - 24K filled with astounding views, epic volunteers and slick rock shenanigans!

Here is Stage One Recap...

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Riccardo's Canadian Trail to Western States started in 2014 with Pinhoti 100.  Along the way, Riccardo ran UTMB and The Canyons 100k 3 times to gain insight on the WS100 course. His final qualifier was the Javelina 100 in 2019 which led him to finally earn his ticket in the Lottery.  

Now like the rest of the international runners, he awaits that day when he can finally toe the line at WS100.

 

Riccardo's Coaching Website : teamrunrun

You can follow Riccardo on Instagram here : @rtortini

Strava here : riccardo tortini

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing

Ragna Debats of the Netherlands (living in Spain) put in a stellar performance at the 2023 Javelina 100, placing 2nd and punching her golden ticket for the 2024 Western States Endurance Run.

Ragna will be returning to Auburn next June to try and better her current masters record of 17:41 where she places 3rd in 2021.

She has won some pretty incredible races around the world including Istria 100, Transgrancanaria and Marathon Des Sables but we were particularly intrigued with an epic journey she took with her family a couple of years ago called Rolling Mountains.

You can check out their journey, which included racing and training all around the world, on YouTube - it is both inspiring and motivational - https://www.youtube.com/@rollingmountains3868

We chat about all this and more.

Here is Ragna...

You can follow Ragna on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/debatsragna/

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Join your hosts Jodi and Norman as they dive into an exhilarating race recap of the Lost Soul Ultra in Lethbridge, Alberta. Norman shares his firsthand experience running the challenging 100K race, detailing the highs and lows, unexpected falls, and the unique scenery.

Discover how Norman trained for this Western States qualifier, the importance of a dedicated crew, and the strategies that helped him push through the heat. From the camaraderie of fellow runners to the aid station highlights, this episode is packed with insights and memorable moments.

Tune in to hear about the intense final stretch, the invaluable support from volunteers and local residents, and the thrilling finish. Whether you're an ultra-running enthusiast or curious about the sport, this episode is a must-listen!

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Norm and Jodi are Gladiators! That's right, we recently completed the 62K course at Ultra Trail Vipava Valley in beautiful Slovenia which is themed around an epic battle that took place in this region over 1600 years ago.

In this episode we chat about how we chose this particular race and our experience from race kit pickup to crossing the finish line.

It all started with Gladiators leading us out from the start line to unpredictable weather, whiskey shots to muddy descents and everything in between!

Here is our UTVV race recap...

Head on over to our YouTube channel and subscribe to not miss any uploaded videos.

If you enjoy our show, please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out GottaRunRacing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/ Check out GRR Twitter here: https://twitter.com/gottarun_racing Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Mike Jolie's journey to Western States 100 is different than most Canadians. He started running when his company transferred him to New Zealand, a mecca for trail running and endurance sports.  

After crewing a friend at Tarawera Ultra in 2018, he decided to start earning his own tickets to WS100.

We chat with Mike about his three ticket races earned in three different countries.

Here is Mike Jolie...   

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

Join us as we delve into an exhilarating episode of the Gotta Run Podcast featuring the inspiring ultra runner from New Zealand, Sam Harvey. Fresh off his victory at the Tarawera 100 miler, Sam shares his race strategies, experiences, and future racing goals. 

Listen in as we chat about his other wins at Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko 100 in Australia and New Zealand's The Spectacle 50k  

This episode is packed with thrilling tales and insights for every running enthusiast.

 

Here is Sam...

You can follow Sam on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/samharvey_cloudlander/

Sam Harvey Cloudlander coaching here - https://www.samharveyultra.com/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

 

Welcome to the Gotta Run Podcast, where today's episode dives into the incredible journey of Julie Hamalecki, a 44-year-old ultra runner from Toronto. Julie recently achieved monumental success at the Tunnel Hill 100 miler, breaking the Canadian women's 100 mile record with a remarkable time of 13 hours and 32 minutes. She also set a new record for the 12-hour distance in the same race.

Under the guidance of her husband and coach Adam, Julie has navigated the challenges of her running career, including overcoming a heart condition that once threatened to end her love for the sport. Discover how Julie transitioned from a figure skater and pianist to setting ultra running records and representing Canada in the 100K World Championships.

Join us as Julie shares her experiences from her earliest running days to her stunning achievements, and learn how her resilience and dedication have propelled her to the top of the ultra running scene. Her story is a testament to perseverance and the power of having a strong support team.

Tune in as we discuss her unexpected first 100-mile win, and the exciting potential future in the ultra running world.

Here is Julie...

You can follow Julie on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/jhamulecki/

 

Save 5% on Kinesys Sunscreen by using this link

https://www.kinesysactive.ca/?ref=gottarun

Save 20% on Caffeine Bullet by using coupon code GOTTARUN

https://caffeinebullet.com/GOTTARUN

Save 10% on Air Relax by using our coupon code GOTTARUN

https://www.airrelax.ca/?ref=GOTTARUN

 

If you enjoyed our show please leave a rating and review.  We would really appreciate it.

Check out the Gotta Run Racing website here and use promo code GRRPODCAST for discounts - gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel here - https://youtube.com/@GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/gottarunracing/

Check out GRR Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/gottarunracing/

Support us on Patreon here : https://www.patreon.com/gottarunracing

Annie Hughes is an up and coming ultra runner that had an incredible year in 2021 with an outright win at the Collegiate Peaks Trail Run 50 miler.  She followed that up with with wins at Leadville 100, becoming the youngest female champion ever, and another epic win at the Moab 240 just six weeks later..  

We had the chance to chat with Annie about her incredible feats and what will be coming up for her next year at Cocodona 250 and hopefully UTMB.  

Here is Annie...

 

You can follow Annie on Instagram here : outdoorable_annie

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out our YouTube Channel at GottaRunRacing

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

Check out GRR Twitter here: GRRTwitter

Check out GRR Pinterest here: GRRPinterest

 

Fanny Barrette's 7 year journey to Western States 100 was not an easy one.

In this Episoide you will hear about her Western States 100 ticket races like Bromont, UTMB, Cruel Jewel, Fat Dog and others and hear how she finally got in.

You can follow Fanny @bluerunninglicorne on Instagram here : https://www.instagram.com/bluerunninglicorne/

 

Check out GottaRunRacing website here: gottarunracing.com

Check out GRR Facebook here: GRRFacebook

Check out GRR Instagram here: GRRInstagram

You can also check out our Vodcasts on our Youtube Channel at Gottarunracing