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The steep stuff podcast delivers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of elite mountain runners in this special episode featuring the Bar Trail Mountain Race Elite Night panel. Host James Loriello brings listeners directly into the pre-race conversation with six accomplished athletes preparing to tackle one of Colorado Springs' most iconic trail races.

The episode opens with crucial safety information from El Paso County Search and Rescue, highlighting the unique challenges of the course, including the infamous Big Boulder section where traffic jams are inevitable. Their practical advice serves as a sobering reminder that even elite athletes must respect the mountain.

What follows is an intimate discussion with panelists Melissa Rogers, Wendy Roberts, Amanda Kozlowski, Benjamin Townsend, John Aziz, and Dean Abel. Each athlete shares their distinct running journey – from those who competed in high school to others who discovered their talent decades later. Their stories prove that elite performance can emerge at any age when passion and dedication align.

Particularly moving is John Aziz's experience balancing new fatherhood with elite competition. Just three weeks after his daughter's birth, he's toeing the line against Colorado's best mountain runners. Meanwhile, Benjamin Townsend provides a global perspective as he recounts racing across multiple continents on the Skyrunner World Series circuit.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as athletes reveal their preferences between climbing and descending, their favorite races worldwide, and even their non-running hobbies – from hacky sack to dog parenting. When asked about motivation, their answers range from supportive partners to the simple joy of experiencing nature without a phone in hand.

Whether you're preparing to race Bar Trail yourself or simply curious about what drives elite mountain runners, this episode offers candid insights into the physical challenges, mental strategies, and personal connections that make trail running such a rewarding pursuit. The camaraderie among these competitors reminds us that even at the highest levels, the trail running community remains supportive, genuine, and grounded in shared passion.

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod