New England Endurance Podcast

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In this special Season 1 recap of the New England Endurance Podcast, we reflect on an incredible year of conversations, stories, and adventures across the endurance sports landscape. From gravel grinders to icy swims, we revisit the highlights that shaped our journey and celebrate the tightly connected, inspiring community that makes New England one of the greatest regions for endurance athletes. We’ll share the top 5 episodes, top 5 hidden gem endurance events, and the top 5 reasons why this region stands out in the endurance world. Plus, we reflect on the lessons learned, the challenges of podcasting, and the unforgettable stories that left a mark. Will there be a Season 2? Tune in to find out!

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis speaks with Tough Ruck race director Sarah Sweeney and five-time participant Jeffrey Paolino about the unique endurance event known as Tough Ruck. They discuss the basics of rucking, the history and significance of the event, the experience of participants, training tips, and the impact of the event on military families. The conversation highlights the camaraderie, community support, and the mission behind Tough Ruck, which honors fallen service members while promoting physical fitness and mental health.

Key Takeaways:

• Race date is day before the Boston Marathon! (Sunday, April 20, 2025)
• Rucking is a weighted walking or jogging activity.
• Tough Ruck started in 2012 with 18 participants.
• The event honors fallen military and first responders.
• Participants carry the names of fallen heroes during the event.
• The event has grown to over 1,000 participants.
• Finishers receive Boston Marathon medals.
• Funds raised go to support military families.
• Participants experience camaraderie and motivation throughout the event.
• Tough Ruck is accessible to anyone who can walk. 

Enjoy the episode and follow us on Instagram at @NewEnglandEndurance.

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we learn about one of largest cycling clubs in the Boston area: the Charles River Wheelmen (CRW). My guest today is Randolph Williams, the President of CRW, an accomplished endurance athlete, and a passionate advocate for inclusivity in cycling.

Randolph shares how growing up in a family steeped in social activism shaped his journey, culminating in his impactful essay, Biking While Black. This powerful piece not only highlighted inequalities in the sport but also inspired tangible changes, such as the Wheels of Change Strava Art project.

We’ll uncover the rich history and mission of CRW, founded over 50 years ago by Dr. Ralph Galen, and explore what makes the club such a cornerstone of the Boston cycling scene. From their inclusive approach and legendary rides to their commitment to promoting camaraderie and belonging, CRW truly embodies the joy of shared cycling adventures.

Join us as Randolph talks about his epic solo rides—like Boston to Montreal—as well as how he’s helping shape the future of CRW. We’ll also discuss CRW’s structure, favorite routes, signature events like the Cranberry Century, and the club’s role in advocating for better cycling infrastructure in New England.

Whether you’re a casual cyclist looking for a welcoming community or a seasoned rider chasing epic routes, this club and this episode has something for everyone. Don’t miss Randolph’s inspiring stories and insights about the power of cycling to build community and create lasting change.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram @newenglandendurance for updates and tags from today’s episode.

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this episode of The New England Endurance Podcast, we’re joined by Alan Atwood, President of the New England Bike Racing Association (NEBRA) and a cornerstone of the region’s road and cyclocross cycling community. With over 30 years in competitive cycling—as a team manager, event organizer, announcer, and founder of Atwood Racing Services—Alan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the sport.

We dive into the origins and mission of NEBRA, the New England road and cyclocross racing calendars, the New England Cycling Hall of Fame, and how the organization collaborates with USA Cycling. Alan shares insights into the challenges facing the bike racing scene, including the decline of road racing, and NEBRA’s efforts to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.

Follow NEBRA at nebra.us and on Instagram or Facebook, and don’t forget to tag us @newenglandendurance with your favorite cycling stories. Rain or shine, New England’s terrain is calling—so get out there and ride!

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this milestone episode, we address a glaring omission from our first 25 episodes—we haven’t yet featured a guest from Rhode Island! Better late than never, right? Today, we are thrilled to welcome Susan Rancourt, co-founder and Chief Running Officer of Rhode Races & Events. 

Susan’s journey is as inspiring as her events. A lifelong runner originally from New Hampshire, Susan moved to Rhode Island, where she fell in love with the Ocean State. After a personal turning point, she left her corporate career to focus on family and her passion for running. Teaming up with Karen Zyons in 2015, she launched Rhode Races & Events, hosting some of the region’s most iconic marathons and half marathons, including those in Newport, Providence, Jamestown, and Narragansett. 

In this episode, Susan shares the evolution of Rhode Races, the unique Rhode Island coastal charm embedded in their events, and how their series of races has become a cornerstone of New England’s endurance community. We even discuss  their innovative race app that points out historical locations along the route during your race! From community impact to tips for first-time runners, Susan gives us an inside look at what makes Rhode Races stand out. 

We wrap up with a celebration of why New England is the greatest endurance region in the world and a nod to some hidden gem routes Susan recommends. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode is full of inspiration from the great state of Rhode Island!

Tune in now, and don’t forget to check out rhoderaces.com and @newenglandendurance on Instagram for more!

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

Welcome to the 25th episode of the New England Endurance Podcast! To mark this milestone, and the coming winter season, we explore one of our favorite endurance activities: cross-country skiing!  We chat with two leaders from the New England Nordic Ski Association (NENSA): Isabel Caldwell, Community Development Director, and Ben Theyerl, Competitive Program Director. Together, they explore NENSA's mission to make Nordic skiing accessible and enjoyable for skiers of all ages and abilities, while sharing insider tips and hidden gems that even seasoned skiers might not know.

Episode Highlights:

• Nordic Skiing Essentials: For newcomers, Isabel and Ben give a rundown on Classic vs. Skate skiing and offer advice on choosing the right first-time experience. 
• They break down the accessibility of NENSA’s programs, like the Bill Koch Youth Ski League, which combines fun and community to help young skiers develop a lifelong love for Nordic skiing. Listeners will be inspired by stories of athletes who began their journey in NENSA programs like the beloved Bill Koch Festival, a must-attend event for young skiers that celebrates community spirit and friendly competition. 
• Isabel and Ben discuss how NENSA promotes both grassroots participation and elite-level achievement, balancing support for competitive athletes with initiatives to bring new people into the sport.
• The Impact of Nordic Rocks:  NENSA’s Nordic Rocks program recently received a Share Winter Foundation grant to expand access for youth across the region. Ben and Isabel share a peek into a Nordic Rocks session and describe the reactions of kids trying cross-country skiing for the first time—pure joy and discovery.
• Hidden Gems of New England Nordic Skiing:* Curious about where to find the region’s best-kept skiing secrets? Isabel and Ben reveal some lesser-known spots that offer unique trails and stunning scenery:
  •  Quarry Road Trails in Waterville, ME, known for its pristine trails and varied terrain.
  •  Wild Wings Ski in Peru, VT, a picturesque location with cozy, tree-lined trails.
  •  Trapp Family Lodge 
  • Marlboro Nordic Ski and Prospect Mountain in Woodford, VT, both offering fantastic experiences for intermediate and advanced skiers.
  •  Gunstock’s Valentine’s Paintball Biathlon in NH, a quirky, fun race combining skiing with paintball! In a delightful twist, Ben introduces the *Gunstock Valentine’s Paintball Biathlon*, a playful take on the traditional biathlon where participants swap out rifles for paintball markers, adding a fun and unexpected layer to the experience. This event exemplifies how NENSA creates unique, inclusive spaces for skiers to enjoy the sport without the intensity of competition.
  •  Tour de Stowe, an event featuring some of Vermont’s finest ski trails, ideal for those seeking a mix of scenic touring and challenging terrain...with soup and beer at the end!
  •  Rikerts Outdoor Center, a versatile venue with trails that accommodate everyone from beginners to seasoned Nordic veterans.

Join us for an inspiring episode that highlights the trails, traditions, and hidden gems of New England’s Nordic skiing community. Whether you're a competitive racer or simply looking for a scenic winter activity, Isabel and Ben’s stories will make you want to hit the trails and experience the magic of gliding on snow.

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we’re spotlighting Connecticut’s cycling scene and introducing you to two standout leaders shaping its future—brothers Ben and Brian Wolfe! Join us as we dive into their work with the Connecticut Cycling Advancement Program (CCAP), a dynamic organization founded to make youth cycling accessible across the state. Brian Wolfe, CCAP’s Executive Director, shares his vision for building one of the nation’s premier youth cycling programs, fostering a supportive, lifelong community for young riders. Meanwhile, Ben Wolfe, a senior coach at Charles Coaching & Nutrition Services and a former Jelly Belly pro, talks about his data-driven, personalized coaching philosophy that elevates endurance athletes of all levels.

Tune in to hear Ben and Brian share their favorite Connecticut cycling gems, including the thrilling Tuesday Night Criterium at Rentschler Field and the action-packed New Haven Grand Prix. Discover the challenges and triumphs of growing youth cycling in New England, the importance of mentorship, and how a balanced, resilient approach can unlock an athlete’s full potential. This episode is packed with insights for cyclists and endurance athletes alike, as we explore the hidden gems and race stories that make Connecticut’s scene one to watch and visit.

For more about CCAP and Charles Coaching & Nutrition Services, check out the links in our show notes and follow us on Instagram at @newenglandendurance.

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this episode, we chat about the vibrant New England running culture with Matt Taylor, co-founder and CEO of Tracksmith, a brand that’s reshaping how we celebrate endurance sports. Matt shares the story behind Tracksmith’s foundation in 2014, how it captures the Amateur Spirit, and its strong connection to the region’s rich running history. 

More than just an apparel company, Tracksmith has become a movement within the endurance community, fostering local grassroots running culture and celebrating the grit and tradition of New England athletes.

Matt also discusses Tracksmith’s involvement in the community through weekly workouts—Sunday mornings, Wednesday evenings, and Friday mornings—at their store locations in Boston, Williamsburg, NY, and London.

We also explore some hidden gems in the New England running scene including:

• the Dole 3 Miler, a wonderful race in memory of George Dole
• the legendary Plymouth-to-Provincetown Relay Run (now defunct but forever cherished)
• the scenic Vermont Overland Trail Run

Whether you’re running along the coast or through the trails, there’s something special about this region’s races.

Tune in as Matt shares his personal endurance journey, thoughts on the future of running, and why New England is the greatest region for endurance sports. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone just beginning your running journey, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights.

Don't miss this exciting conversation with a true icon of the New England running community!

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this special episode, we host an exclusive interview with Ted Benford, Executive Director of Community Rowing Inc. (CRI).  Whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned rower, this episode will give you an inside look at how rowing has grown into a vibrant community sport in New England and how CRI is a big part of it! 
Fun fact: Over 2 million people row daily in the U.S.

Ted shares his fascinating journey as an athlete and coach, his extensive experience leading elite crews at major competitions like the Royal Henley Regatta and World Rowing Championships, and his work with Fortune 500 companies and Olympic rowers. Ted has coached at several DI and DIII programs in the area including Tufts, BC, MIT, and Northeastern.  Now h'es devoting his time and energy into the wonderful community at CRI.  Learn how CRI, located on Boston's iconic Charles River, has become a beacon for inclusivity, offering free programs for veterans, youth rowing programs for Boston and Cambridge public schools, corporate team-building rowing programs, and much more.

From hidden gem rowing locations in Neponset, Hingham, and Duxbury to CRI’s role as one of the US National Team training centers for the Paris 2024 and LA 2028 Olympics, this episode is packed with insights. Ted also discusses the mission of CRI, their involvement in Cambridge and Boston’s unique rowing-in-schools program, and how CRI is building community through rowing.

Whether you’re curious about rowing in general, learning about CRI's youth development program, corporate rowing program, or hearing about future initiatives in New England’s rowing scene, Ted’s expertise will inspire and inform. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the sport of rowing in the greatest endurance region in the world—New England!

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

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.

In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we are joined by Karen Smyers, a triathlon legend and an inspiring figure in endurance sports. Karen's accolades include winning the 1995 Hawaiian Ironman World Championship, claiming three ITU World Champion titles, and earning her place in both the World Triathlon and USA Triathlon Halls of Fame. For 26 years, she competed at the top level of professional triathlon, and today, she’s making an impact by coaching athletes and organizing local endurance events like the Lincoln Kids Triathlon: Splash, Mash, Dash in Lincoln, MA.

Karen shares insights on her illustrious career, memories of competing in iconic races, and reflects on her journey as a coach. We dive into topics like the evolution of triathlon in New England and the challenges of balancing family life while training for Ironman events.  Plus, we explore her passion for getting kids involved in endurance sports and discuss her vision for a more inclusive future in triathlon.

Don’t miss this episode filled with stories, advice, and inspiration from one of triathlon’s all-time greats.

Tune in and follow us on Instagram @newenglandendurance for more details and updates!

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