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What does it truly mean to represent your country on the world stage? For Michelino Senseri, it's the fulfillment of a childhood dream that once seemed impossible. Speaking from Spain where he's been meticulously studying the World Trail Championship course, Michelino offers an unfiltered look at what American trail runners can expect when they toe the line against the world's best.

The terrain in Spain presents a fascinating challenge - more technical than anything in the United States, with runnable climbs that zigzag up mountains and downhills so steep and rocky that Michelino warns "if it rains the night before, you're gonna wish to God you had lugs and good rubber." His early arrival and careful course reconnaissance reveal a race that will demand technical proficiency, strategic pacing, and mental fortitude from every competitor.

Despite what he calls a "bumpy season," Michelino approaches this championship with refreshing clarity and determination. "How many chances do you have to line up at a world championship? If you're not rolling the dice and going for it, then why are you there?" This all-in mentality extends to his assessment of Team USA's chances against powerhouse nations like Spain, Italy, and France. With teammates Eli Hemming, David Sinclair, Seth DeMoor, Noah Williams, and late addition Max King (replacing injured Ryan Becker), Michelino believes they have the firepower to challenge for gold if three Americans can crack the top 15.

Perhaps most compelling is Michelino's perspective on what success actually means. "The dream was not to win in the jersey. The dream has been to represent the jersey and the colors and the country." In a sport often focused on individual achievement, his pride in wearing the stars and stripes transcends personal results. Listen now for an insider's perspective on international competition and what it truly means to race not just for yourself, but for something larger.

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod