Talking in Ovals

We've been trying to get this guest on basically since we've started the show, and now we're here. 

Dive into John Trautmann's running journey with us as he tells us what got him going. The we just sit back and listen as John takes us through his favorite memories of his legendary career. 

We pivot to talk more about the passing of Gags and the major impact he had on John. The way he effected John's like as a runner, coach and man.

Lastly we get John's feelings about the sport itself. He's headlong into it being a pro coach and his perspective is invaluable.

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We're always happy to be joined by Jeff Benjamin.

We chat with Jeff about the passing of Frank "Gags" Gagliano. We talk about what he meant to this sport and the stories we have from him. 

Then we chat about the upcoming 2026 SIRA Legends Gala. Who is attending this year, who will be honored and more. 

And we finally get his pulse on the sport and some of the crazy times we've seen since we last had him on!

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Stanford legend and Mountainside HS XCTF Coach Dave Frank joins the show! 

We talk about his running journey. Where the spark came from and what are some of his favorite memories. 

We transition to high school running. How has the sport changed over the nearly three decades he's been coaching?

Lastly, we pick his brain about the sport itself. Does he think it's in a good place right now? 

This is going to be a fun one, don't miss out!

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The hits keep on coming! You want to be here for this one. 

Lyle, Dave and Alex get the chance to chat with Asics pro runner, Drew Hunter.

We start off with the norm, his running journey and memories. 

But then we dive deeper. What are the family dynamics of a pro runner who is a husband, father and athlete? He gives us his version of what that looks like for him. 

Then we close out talking about the phenomena that is "trackflation" and why he thinks it's happening.

Enjoy the ride on this one with one of America's current best runners. 

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An absolutely monster show today. 

Lyle, Dave and Alex welcome pro American standout distance runner, Marco Langon.

We talk about his spark for becoming a runner and his memories from his time starting to now.

We then chat about another amazing runner in Eamonn Coghlan and his influence he's had on Marco. 

We finish by talking about where the sport is and what he would change and his goals.

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The conclusion of this epic special brings us 6 men, all NJ running legends, all former Holmdel Park record holders.

We're joined by Jim Smith, Brad Hudson, Andy Martin, Jason DiJoseph, Craig Forys & Joe Rosa to cover the legendary course.

We chat about their careers competing in NJ and the fond memories at Holmdel and beyond. 

We then get to their record races and how they braved the #1 voted hardest 5k course in America. 

Bridging generations in a way only Talking in Ovals can. You absolutely don't want to miss this special show. 

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It's time for a special addition if the show with the Holmdel Heroes series!

With the Brooks XC Northeast Championships set to be hosted by the historic Holmdel Park, we decided to bring on legendary record holders to discuss.

Tonight, Lyle, Dave and Alex are joined by former record holders Michelle Rowen and Megan Venables.

We talk everything Holmdel. From the difficulty of the course. Changes over the years and of course, the races that they set their records in.

Join us for the first part of this two part special for a walk down memory lane with these two legendary ladies.

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Lyle, Dave and Alex are joined by Mike Stahr and we talk about an array of topics.

Mike gives us his spark that made him want to become a runner then takes a walk down memory lane. From high school to professional success, Mike brings up stories that many haven't heard.

We then shift to talking about all the fast times over the last few years. What's the true reason behind them? Can it be maintained? 

We then talk about the health of the sport. Is it in a better place after the World Ultimate Championships?

If you're a running fan, this is the show for you.

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Lyle, Dave and Alex are joined by Craig Segal to chat about all of the amazing things he's doing for the running community at the shore.

We start off diving into the amazing events he has been putting on. The growth, the talent and the eye catching results from these successful races are something that can't be ignored.

Craig has quickly turned the Outpost into a staple in the running community. From being a local runner to now being a major supporter, he continues to give back in a major way. 

You don't want to miss this one, especially if you're a Shore Conference runner!

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Lyle, Dave and Alex are joined by Corey Annan and Bakari Tice as we get set for another New Jersey high school XC season! 

We go over who we think will be the best for the boys and girls individually and team wise. We also cover and dark horses and potential breakout stars! 

It's going to be another great show with the experts. If you want the skinny on this upcoming season, you don't want to miss it.

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