Tune in here to this episode of Grits, Guts, and Determination, The Leadville Race Series Podcast, a leading authority for all things Leadville! Host Cole Chlouber, son of race founder Ken Chlouber, takes us on a story-telling journey of the 38-year rich history of this race. We learn all the tips, tricks, and stories from the Leadville community members! Joining us today are Patti and Al Iverson, a couple who are members of both the Leadville and the Bahram Akradi Life Time family.

To kick off the conversation, Cole asks Patti and Al to share how Leadville found them. Their introduction to Leadville was in 2007 over a beer with a friend who had done one of the first races. At the time, participants could sign up for the race in groups of five, and they made it in! Today, Al has 12 total finishes and Patti has 11. Even though she didn’t finish the first time, Patti knew she would be back next year to finish. Listen as they share how Braham Akradi, CEO of Life Time, became the sponsor of the next year’s race and ran alongside the couple. Then, Al speaks of his transition from the real estate business world to the athletic world. The secret to life, they both believe, is to surround yourself with wonderful people in all stages of life.

For Al, the friendship, connection and comradery atmosphere of Leadville is what really drew him in. Leadville really opened the door for big adventures and inspired Al and Patti to embrace many other mountain bike adventures worldwide and meet like minded people. They share their favorite memories with Ken and Mary Lee, including Ken’s encouragement for Al to bring Patti back to the race next year. Leadville is proud to be founded on the backs of strong women and Patti is no exception to this. In addition to their athletic feats, Al and Patti have a CBD company alongside their son, Dark Horse Hemp Farms. Their products are especially pioneering care for teenagers with diabetes, though they are quite universal.

For new Leadville family members, Al and Oatti share their most valuable advice. First, don’t overlook the importance of finding valuable mentors who are familiar with the race or practice in the stage race offered at Leadville. Additionally, embrace the ebb and flow of the race. Patti recommends you come to the race with perfect nutrition and low weight, as you don’t want to carry extra weight up a mountain. Finally, they compare and contrast crews and backpacks and share what the word “Leadville” evokes for them.

Thanks for tuning in! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe, and we hope to see you on the line in August!