Colin and Danny interview Mark Castrovinci co-founder of TopGunz Tri Team and recent finisher of the Leadville 100 mountain bike race experience.

Takeaways

Mark transitioned from rowing to triathlon, qualifying for Kona in 2021 after years of dedicated training

He recently completed the grueling Leadville 100 mountain bike race, overcoming severe GI issues to finish just before the cutoff

Mark balances training with family life and a career in the running shoe industry at Altra

His positive attitude and ability to suffer through challenges are key traits that have led to his success

Mark's Athletic Background

Started rowing after college, competed in club races in Boston

Transitioned to triathlon in 2011-2012 after moving to North Carolina

Qualified for Kona in 2021 at Ironman Lake Placid with a 13th place AG finish

Has completed challenging events like a 210-mile gravel ride with 20,000 ft of climbing

Career Path

Worked in finance at Fidelity, then chemical sales with his father's company

Made a major career change to pursue passion in running industry

Now works as a tech rep for Altra Running, covering the New England territory

Enjoys the active lifestyle and flexibility the job provides for training

Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race Experience

Entered via lottery, trained intensively for 3 months with coach Tim Snow

Battled severe GI issues throughout the race, repeatedly vomiting and having diarrhea

Considered quitting at mile 65 but pushed through with encouragement from volunteers

Finished just before the 12-hour cutoff in an intense sprint to the line

Describes it as one of the hardest physical and mental challenges he's ever faced

Training and Racing Philosophy

Emphasizes the importance of staying consistent during non-racing periods

Uses creative ways to fit in training around work and family commitments

Values the camaraderie and shared suffering of endurance events

Maintains a positive, fun-loving attitude even during intense challenges

What's Next

Mark plans to do some local half-ironman races in 2024

Will support his wife's marathon training for Boston and Chicago

Considering another full Ironman in late 2024 (possibly Cozumel)

May attempt Leadville 100 again in the future after more mountain bike experience