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#125 - In this episode, Mario Valentin, an Army National Guard veteran and founder of the Super Smash Bros racing team, and I discuss overcoming life's obstacles and transforming them into personal growth experiences. 

Mario opens up about his past, where responsibilities like starting a family and serving in the military took precedence over sports. Yet, these very experiences instilled in him a discipline and camaraderie that would later ignite his passion for running and obstacle course racing. Having conquered 61 Spartan races, Mario's story is a powerful reminder of the opportunities that fitness can bring into our lives.

Topics Covered:

• Mario’s start into obstacle course racing 
• Overcoming the challenges of his first Spartan Beast race
• Coping with and recovering from an Achilles injury
• The importance of community through the Super Smash Bros OCR team
• An emphasis on making fitness a fun and lifelong commitment

Today’s Guest

Mario Valentin

Mario Valentin, a 45-year-old father of four from Waterbury, CT, is a testament to resilience and transformation. Despite not engaging in sports during his youth, Mario found his calling in obstacle course racing (OCR) after serving in the Army National Guard. Since 2014, he has completed 61 Spartan races, including three ultras and 17 Trifectas, alongside events from brands like Bonefrog, Savage Race, and FIT Challenge.

A proud captain of the Super Smash Bros OCR team, Mario has also excelled in hybrid fitness, with achievements in DEKA and plans to tackle HYROX. His journey hasn’t been without challenges, overcoming a ruptured Achilles in 2018 and managing osteoarthritis.

Mario’s determination has earned podium finishes, including a Savage Race AG win and a 2nd place in City Challenge Masters. His mission: to use fitness as a tool for readiness and to inspire others to achieve their best selves.

Follow Mario Valentin:

• Instagram - @supersmashbrosocr

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