Welcome to the Young Hearts, Run Free podcast.

Ed Furtaw is many things.  Being first ever finisher of the Barkley Marathons would maybe top that bill for most mortals. A total of 22 outings at the Barkley Marathons have since followed. Even a book, Tales from Out There, published on the topic.

However, Ed’s greatest ever Barkley appearance came very recently, in 2022 he made a glorious return to the start line at Frozen Head State Park. At the ripe old age of 74. He had quite the reason for it being an extra special occasion.

To add to that he’s also just become Young Hearts, Run Free’s first ever transatlantic guest. Yes, we had the absolute privilege to hear ‘Tales from Out There’ straight from the horse’s mouth.

Joining John & Steven from the USA Frozen Ed gives up one hour of his time to chat to us about the history, the characters (there are many), the course and it wouldn’t be complete without an insight in to the wicked mind of Gary Cantrell aka Lazarus Lake.

You’re in for a treat, whether you’re a Barkley aficionado, a trail running enthusiast or just love hearing about human beings being stretched to the very outer limit of what’s possible.

Enjoy this special edition episode. And remember, ‘Dream, Plan, Do’.

A massive thanks to Ed for chatting with us. Thanks also go to Graham Connolly of Team Pyllon for hooking us up with Ed.

You can read more Tales from Out There by grabbing Ed’s book here Tales from Out There: The World’s Toughest Trail Race Vol 1

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