The famous Western States 100 began from a horse race that started back in 1955. SIX years prior to this (1949), Pack Burro racing had been a prize-paying sport that started in the mountains of Colorado.

Here is a fun video produced by Salomon a couple years ago with Max King and Ryan Sandes trying the race.

Past guest and running shoe enthusiast, Brian Metzler, rejoins The Nation after we found out he has participated in many of these unusual events.

Make sure you read Brian's book, Kicksology: The Hype, Science, Culture & cool of Running Shoes

Listen to the episode on shoes we did with Brian.

Check out Christopher McDougall's book about his experience running with a donkey, Running with Sherman