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In this inspiring episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Kelly Brush, founder of the Kelly Brush Foundation, and a former collegiate ski racer turned national advocate for adaptive sports. After a life-altering crash in 2006 left her paralyzed from the chest down, Kelly founded the Kelly Brush Foundation to empower others with spinal cord injuries to live active, engaged lives through sport and recreation.

Kelly shares her personal journey from rehab to riding again on an adaptive bike, and how that pivotal moment sparked nearly two decades of advocacy, innovation, and community building. We talk about the barriers people with disabilities face when accessing sport—whether cost, awareness, or terrain—and how KBF’s Active Fund and Active Project are changing that.

She also dives into the power of inclusive trail design, how Vermont became a model for accessible mountain biking, and how events like the Kelly Brush Ride are not only about fundraising but about celebration, connection, and confidence.

Whether you're an athlete, race organizer, or simply someone who believes in equitable access to the outdoors, this episode will leave you inspired to get involved and help redefine what's possible for adaptive athletes.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Brooks Nablo and Jacob Kravitz of Stage 1 Cycling, a community-built cycling club based in Connecticut that’s making big waves in the local scene.

Brooks, the club’s President and head coach of the juniors team, shares how stepping into a leadership role transformed not only the young athletes he mentors but his own perspective on racing and life. Jacob, a board member, announcer, co-promoter, and longtime advocate for grassroots cycling, offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to put on quality events—and why he keeps coming back to the sport, both on and off the bike.

Together, they talk about their club’s mission, the power of mentorship, and the joy of watching riders grow—plus they give us the inside scoop on Fattycross, the Winter Segment Challenge, and other creative ways Stage 1 is building community year-round.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into creating a meaningful, sustainable local cycling culture, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode we interview Justin Spinelli, a former professional cyclist and current entrepreneur behind Luxe Wheelworks by Gruppo Spinelli. Justin shares his journey from a young bike mechanic in New Hampshire to racing in prestigious events like the Giro d'Italia. He discusses the challenges he faced, including burnout in professional cycling, and how he found joy in cyclocross racing. Justin also delves into the founding of Luxe Wheelworks, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship and community in building high-quality, customizable wheels for cyclists. The conversation highlights Justin's passion for cycling and his commitment to creating a supportive environment for riders in New England.

Takeaways

• Justin Spinelli's journey began in a bike shop at a young age.
• He transitioned from a bike mechanic to a professional cyclist.
• Burnout in professional cycling led him to step back and refocus on education.
• He found joy in cyclocross racing with Richard Sachs' team.
• Luxe Wheelworks was founded to combine his skills in cycling and mechanics.
• The new Luxe Wheelworks focuses on customizable, high-quality wheels.
• Justin emphasizes the importance of human craftsmanship in wheel building.
• The wheels are designed for durability and performance, catering to various riders.
• Justin continues to engage with the cycling community in New England.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis talks with RJ Thompson, Executive Director of Vermont Huts & Trails, about the Velomont Project — an ambitious effort to create a 485-mile, hut-supported trail network spanning the length of Vermont.

Designed to modern mountain bike standards and open to hikers, runners, and backcountry travelers, the Velomont aims to connect communities, fuel rural economies, and redefine outdoor recreation in the Green Mountain State.

Art and RJ discuss how the project began, how it’s funded, and the partnerships — from the Vermont Mountain Bike Association to the Green Mountain Club — making it all possible. They also dive into the Tunnel Ridge Trail in the Heart of the Greens loop, which some riders say rivals Black Bear at Kingdom Trails as one of the best trails in the world.

Whether you’re a rider dreaming of a multi-day backcountry adventure or someone passionate about community-driven recreation, this episode offers an inside look at the future of Vermont’s trail culture — and what it takes to build something that lasts generations.

Episode Takeaways

• The Velomont Project will connect 485 miles of trail across Vermont.
• A collaboration among multiple organizations and communities statewide.
• Funding combines grants, donations, and hut revenue.
• Community engagement is essential to gaining land access and support.
• Volunteers and local trail chapters keep the system thriving.
• The project aims to connect rural towns and boost local economies.
• Future plans include more huts, more trail miles, and better accessibility.
• The initiative embodies Vermont’s sustainable, community-based recreation ethic.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode we sit down with John Mortimer — founder and CEO of Millennium Running, former professional runner, and one of New England’s most dynamic race organizers. John takes us from his early days as a decorated athlete to the creation of Millennium Running, a company that now produces over 30 signature events annually, operates a vibrant retail store, manages a running club, and has helped raise more than $2 million for local charities.

We explore the origins of the Millennium Mile, how themed events like the Santa Shuffle and Shamrock Shuffle welcome newcomers to the sport, and why creating first-class race experiences is central to the company’s mission. John shares the story of the Cheap Marathon — a Boston Qualifier on a New Hampshire rail trail — and how its time-trial start and quirky “lousy ribbon” have earned it a cult following.

The conversation also covers the role of community engagement (check the Millennium Run Club), the challenges and rewards of race directing, the influence of trends like super shoes, and the future of running in New England’s uniquely diverse geography. Whether you’re chasing a PR, lacing up for your first 5K, or simply curious about the business of endurance events, this episode offers an inside look at how passion and purpose can transform a local race into a regional institution.

Key Takeaways:

• John Mortimer’s path from elite athlete to entrepreneur is both personal and inspiring.
• The Millennium Mile sparked a business now at the heart of New Hampshire’s running scene.
• First-class race experiences build lasting participation and community pride.
• Accessible events attract new runners and walkers into the sport.
• The Cheap Marathon blends affordability, speed, and camaraderie in a unique way.
• Millennium Running has raised over $2 million for local nonprofits.
• The Bedford, NH retail store doubles as a community hub.
• Time-trial starts enhance both safety and runner experience.
• New England’s mountains, coastlines, and towns foster a vibrant endurance culture.
• Future trends include performance gains from super shoes and rising participation rates.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode of the New England Endurance podcast, hosts Art Trapotsis and Eric Schenker sit down with Lisa McCoy, event director of the iconic Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb (MWARBH). Known affectionately as “The Rockpile,” this race challenges cyclists with 7.6 miles of relentless climbing, an average grade of 12%, and the ever-unpredictable weather of Mount Washington.

Lisa shares her story—from her role as co-owner of the International Mountain Climbing School to managing one of the toughest uphill races in the world. The discussion dives into the race’s evolution, the mission of the Tin Mountain Conservation Center, and the enduring spirit of the New England endurance community.

Whether you're a veteran of the climb or considering your first ascent, Lisa offers behind-the-scenes insights, preparation tips, and why so many riders keep coming back year after year.

Key Takeaways:

• The course is brutally steep, with no flat sections and a punishing 22% grade at the summit.
• Lisa McCoy has been directing the event since 2017 and is deeply involved in the outdoor community.
• The Auto Road was fully unpaved until the 1970s; it’s now fully paved, but just as tough.
• Riders must be self-supported—no aid stations and no e-bikes allowed during the race.
• All proceeds benefit the Tin Mountain Conservation Center, a key player in local environmental education.
• The finish line reward? Bragging rights, breathtaking views, and a coveted MWARBH finisher’s blanket.
• The event consistently draws 500–600 riders, showcasing the grit and camaraderie of New England’s endurance athletes.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode we sit down with Abby Long, the (outgoing) Executive Director of Kingdom Trails — one of the top mountain biking and multi-use trail networks in the country, located in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

Abby shares her inspiring journey from global service work to leading one of New England’s most beloved trail systems. With over 100 miles of trails traversing private land, Kingdom Trails is more than just a riding destination — it's a shining example of what happens when community, conservation, and recreation come together.

The conversation dives into:

• The origins and growth of Kingdom Trails
• How strong landowner partnerships make it all possible
• The push for adaptive and inclusive trail design
• Future expansion plans and event partnerships
• KT’s year-round offerings, including winter fat biking and skiing
• The economic and social impact on the local community

Abby’s leadership highlights the power of stewardship, respect, and place-based collaboration. Whether you’re a rider, trail builder, or community advocate, this episode is packed with insights on what it takes to create sustainable, inclusive, and beloved outdoor spaces.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode we interview Amy Rusiecki — ultrarunner, trail advocate, race director of the iconic Vermont 100 Endurance Race, and race director of the Beast Coast Trail Running Series.

We take a deep dive into  the origins of the Vermont 100 and how it began as a horse endurance ride and remains one of the only events in the world where horses and runners share the same 100-mile course. Amy discusses what it takes to direct a race of this magnitude, from coordinating dual events to cultivating a tight-knit, supportive race culture.

More than just a race, the VT100 is a beacon of inclusivity — proudly being the first trail ultra to welcome adaptive athletes and raising money for the Vermont Adaptive.   Amy speaks passionately about her mission to foster a trail running culture that is accessible, welcoming, and community-driven.

The conversation also spotlights the Beast Coast Trail Running series, a collection of events (like the Seven Sisters trail race) that embody the rugged charm and spirited camaraderie of New England’s trail scene. Amy shares her insights on what makes the East Coast ultrarunning community so unique, why volunteerism is at the heart of these events, and how the region’s technical terrain delivers a one-of-a-kind endurance challenge.

Key Takeaways:

• The Vermont 100 is one of the only ultra races where runners and horses compete side by side.
• The event has a strong, family-like community and emphasizes volunteer participation.
• VT100 was the first trail ultra to officially include adaptive athletes, pushing the standard for inclusion.
• The race is working to welcome neurodiverse athletes, part of a broader inclusivity initiative.
• Beast Coast Trail Running is also a club that has been newly formed for runners located in Western Massachusetts.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis sits down with George Munger, the director the Tufts University rowing program and men's head coach, to explore what makes Tufts one of the most successful and admired rowing teams in the country.

George shares his personal journey into the sport and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Tufts Rowing has evolved into a championship-caliber program. From multiple national titles on both the men's and women's teams (head coach, Lily Siddall) to coaching accolades to groundbreaking use of technology and community outreach, this conversation dives into the core philosophies and practices that set Tufts apart.

Listeners will learn about:

* The long-term effort behind Tufts' recent dominance on the water as DIII national champs
* Recruiting insights: How Tufts prioritizes athlete enthusiasm and love for movement in recruiting
* The integration of strength training to prevent injury and boost performance
* Innovative use of technology, like the Peach system, for real-time performance feedback
* How the team strategically peaks for major races and balances data with intuition in crew selection
* Meaningful community engagement, including environmental efforts like Malden River cleanups
* George’s goals for the future—including building a deeper team culture and increasing alumni involvement

Whether you're a rower, coach, or endurance athlete looking for insights into elite team building, this episode is full of lessons from one of the top minds in the sport.

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.

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In this episode we dive deep into what many rowers fondly call Rower’s Christmas — the legendary Head of the Charles Regatta (HOCR). We’re joined by race director Brendan Mulvey, who unpacks what makes this two-day rowing festival one of the world’s largest and most beloved regattas.

Brendan shares behind-the-scenes stories about the regatta’s rich history, the essential role of over 2,000 volunteers, and how the event welcomes everyone from world-class Olympians to determined first-timers. The conversation highlights the event’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity — featuring adaptive rowing divisions and the inspiring participation of the Survivor Rowing Network, a community of rowers united by their battles with cancer and their passion for the sport.

Listeners get an insider’s look at the unique time trial format, the monumental logistics behind hosting 300,000 spectators and thousands of boats, and the vibrant community connections that keep this New England tradition alive year after year.

Brendan also announces a new chapter in HOCR’s story: for the first time ever, HOCR will host the Boston Beach Sprints, a three-day coastal rowing event at Carson Beach in South Boston, taking place July 25–27. It’s a bold step to expand rowing’s reach and showcase this dynamic format in a new setting.

Key Takeaways:
✅ HOCR is the world’s largest two-day regatta — truly Rower’s Christmas.
✅ Welcomes athletes of all levels, with strong inclusivity for adaptive and survivor rowers.
✅ Volunteers are the heartbeat of the event.
✅ Unique time trial racing plus massive spectator buzz.
✅ New for 2025: Beach Sprints!

This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.