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Ten hours on the edge, a live stream watched by hundreds of thousands, and a second-place finish that announced David Sinclair to the world stage. We unpack how an injury scare turned into a smarter build, why he chose CCC over OCC, and the exact training and fueling choices that helped him lead for hours, survive the low points, and find the grit to hold the podium in Chamonix.

David takes us inside the chaos at Worlds—from canceled flights to a sky-high vert profile—and what that taught him about specificity and course targeting. Then we go deep on the nuts and bolts: threshold-focused workouts drawn from his ski background, a summer of cross-training and uphill-only running, and the course recon that let him pace with intent. We break down his fueling strategy in plain terms—80 to 100 grams of carbs per hour, flavor fatigue management, and why separating carbs, fluids, and electrolytes can save your stomach late. With Western States on the horizon, he shares a practical heat plan: steady sauna work, relentless ice at every aid, and simple systems that keep core temperature down without overcomplicating race day.

We also talk shoes and gear, including Craft prototypes that balance cushioning with stability on runnable terrain, and why East Coast training—rolling dirt roads, rooty steeps, variable weather—can build world-class durability without altitude. David’s philosophy is refreshingly clear: keep it fun, stay flexible, and double down on the basics that actually move the needle. If you’re mapping your next build or just love a front-row view of a breakthrough season, this conversation is a masterclass in turning setbacks into fuel.

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your cart at UltimateDirection.com!