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Christina Mascarenas, a two-time Pikes Peak marathon champion, joins us for a captivating conversation on her latest adventures and achievements. Christina opens up about her recent trip to Japan for the Golden Trail World Series, providing listeners with vivid imagery of the Kobe 23K race and the unexpected delights of Kobe's underground city life. Get ready to experience Japan through her eyes, from its breathtaking landscapes and pristine streets to the warm and welcoming locals and delectable cuisine.

In this episode, we journey through Christina’s transformation from a competitive gymnast to a trail-running sensation. Facing a career-ending injury at 14, Christina didn’t let adversity keep her down. Instead, she channeled her determination into a remarkable running career, driven by a pivotal bet with her brother at age 24. We explore her strategic approach to racing, the camaraderie among trail runners, and the mental grit required to stay ahead in high-altitude competitions like the Pikes Peak Marathon. Her story is a testament to resilience and the powerful influence of family in shaping an athlete’s path.

But it’s not all about running; Christina’s life is a fascinating blend of athletic prowess and scientific inquiry. We delve into her work in a biology lab and discuss how she balances her demanding training schedule with her professional career. From overcoming severe injuries to representing Team USA at the World Championships, Christina's journey is filled with inspiring moments and lessons in perseverance. Tune in for insights on training routines, race preparations, and even some light-hearted banter about Bigfoot and aliens. Don't miss this episode's heartfelt conclusion, where we emphasize the importance of rating and reviewing the podcast to help us continue sharing these incredible stories.

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The Sub Stuff Ep 5 | This Week in Sub-Ultra ! Broken Arrow VK, 23K & 46K Results Recap Plus Meet the Minotaur Results & Previewing Cirque Series Brighton !!

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What’s the secret to conquering a 23K trail race with 1,433 meters of vertical gain? Tune into this electrifying episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast, where we peel back the curtain on the upcoming race on Sunday, June 23rd, at 8 am. Joined by special guest Nick Tusa, we dissect the key storylines and offer our predictions on elite athletes like Eli Hemming, Grayson Murphy, and Dani Moreno. Reflecting on last year's race dynamics, we also speculate about potential weather-induced course changes that could shake things up this year.

Craving an in-depth analysis of top contenders? Look no further. We shine a spotlight on world champion Grayson Murphy and discuss her prospects amidst fierce competition from Tabor Hemming and Annie Duby. On the men's side, Eli Hemming’s title defense faces intense rivalry from Christian Allen and Chad Hall. We dig into their training regimes, past performances, and the potential impact of snowy conditions. Our discussion is loaded with insights that will keep you on the edge of your seat as we anticipate who will rise to the top.

But that’s not all—We discuss standout performers such as Christian Allen and assess the strengths and challenges faced by athletes like Patrick Kipngeno. Additionally, we share our excitement for the Ultra Trail Running race and the Golden Trail Series qualifiers, pondering how new races could reshape the competitive landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned trail running fan or new to the sport, this episode promises a comprehensive preview packed with expert analysis and thrilling forecasts. Don't miss it!

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What does it take to conquer one of the most grueling ultra races in the world? Join us on the SeepSelf podcast as I, James Lauriello, along with the fantastic Nick Tusa, provide an in-depth preview of the highly anticipated Broken Arrow 46K race happening on June 22nd, 2024. This episode promises a front-row seat to the drama and excitement of a two-loop, 26.4-mile course that has runners from all corners of the globe vying for glory. With high-profile athletes like David Sinclair and Adam Peterman in the mix, we uncover what makes this race a true test of endurance and skill.

We spotlight the incredible lineup of ultra runners set to compete, including heavy hitters like Nick Handel, Jeff Magavero, Cam Smith, and JP Gibblin on the men's side, and fierce competitors such as MK Sullivan, Helen Mino Faulkner, Claire Rhodes, and Tony McCann on the women's side. Get ready for an exciting analysis of their past performances, current training regimens, and the competitive dynamics that could shape the outcomes on race day. We also dive into intriguing matchups and the growing international prestige of the Broken Arrow 46K, making predictions and speculating on potential surprises.

As we build the anticipation for this world-class event, we also explore the performance potential across other races at the Broken Arrow Skyrace, including the Vertical Kilometer (VK) and 23K events. Will MK Sullivan shine despite a packed racing schedule? How will altitude training and race experience impact the top contenders? Tune in to find out as we share our infectious enthusiasm and expert insights, making this episode a must-listen for any trail racing aficionado. Don’t miss out on the buzz surrounding the Broken Arrow Skyrace – it’s going to be a race to remember!

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Get ready for an adrenaline-packed episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast as we take you behind the scenes of the Meet the Minotaur Sky Race, the eighth exhilarating stop on the World Skyrunner Series! Join James Lauriello and Nick Tusa as they break down this grueling 33.5-kilometer course in Crow's Nest Pass, Alberta, featuring a staggering 2,900 meters of climbing. Discover what it takes to conquer the skies with insights on reigning champion Jackson Cole's comeback and the fierce competition from athletes like Johnny Luna Lima and Martin Kern. On the women’s front, we highlight powerhouses such as Bailey Kowalczyk and Elise Ponchette, and commend the Skyrunner Series for its enhanced media coverage that brings the thrill of the race to life.

Our episode doesn't stop there; we delve into mountain race strategies and the technical skills that differentiate elite runners. Learn how athletes like Elise Ponchette excel on challenging downhill segments while others focus on uphill endurance. We spotlight emerging talents like Robin Lesh, Karina Anderson, and Tatiana Kennedy, and discuss the unique training advantages offered by Boulder, Colorado. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of these athletes' performances and the factors that could influence their race outcomes, including a call for more recognition of Canadian trail runners.

Finally, we offer our bold predictions for the trail race podium, starting with Jackson Cole's potential dominance and strong contenders like Johnny Luna Lima and Martin Curran. We also speculate on the top-five finishers, including Morgan Elliott and David Hedges, and introduce other dark horses who could shake things up. Plus, don't miss our preview of the Pemi Loop Race, where we break down its challenging dynamics and key competitors, emphasizing Morgan's impressive track record and potential surprises from other seasoned runners. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a passionate fan, this episode is packed with expert analysis and exciting previews that you won't want to miss!

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Broken Arrow VK Race Preview | The Steep Stuff Race Companion , With Guest Nick Tusa 

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What makes obstacle course racing (OCR) so enticing for athletes, and how does it compare to sub-ultra trail running? We promise you'll gain a fresh perspective as we chat with the phenomenal Lacey Bourgois on the newest episode of the Steep Stuff Podcast. From her latest feats at the Gorge Waterfall 30K and Quad Rock 25 Mile to her unique insights on training for the 2023 and 2024 race seasons, Lacey offers a wealth of knowledge for both seasoned runners and newcomers alike. Her journey from the plains of North Dakota to the trails of Colorado Springs provides a fascinating backdrop to her athletic prowess.

Lacey's story isn't just about physical endurance; it's also about mental resilience. We explore the psychological strategies that keep her focused, including her approach to managing social media comparisons. By highlighting standout performances like Ace Brown's top 10 finish and Hannah's remarkable ACL recovery, we underscore the importance of self-confidence and resilience in the running community. We also touch on the nitty-gritty of local races, the logistics of securing race entries, and the rising popularity of trail running.

Lastly, we shed light on the physical and emotional hurdles athletes face, from dealing with injuries to staying motivated throughout the race season. Lacey shares how role models like Lindsay Webster have inspired her in the OCR world, and we discuss the importance of community support for our podcast. Don't miss out on this compelling conversation that blends athletic insights, personal stories, and essential training tips. Tune in, rate, and review us to help grow this vibrant community of running enthusiasts!

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The Sub Stuff Ep 4 | This Week in Sub-Ultra ! Go Pro Games Results Breakdown, Sinks Canyon Trail Races & Skyrace Maderia !!

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Join us as we chat with the phenomenal Anna Mae Flynn, who shares her incredible journey from Boone, North Carolina to the pinnacle of trail running. From her victory at the 2017 Speedgoat  50K to her preparation for the upcoming Broken Arrow Skyrace, Anna Mae's story is one of passion, perseverance, and unyielding spirit. Her transition from the classroom to the trails is both inspiring and enlightening, offering a unique perspective on following one's true calling.

Anna Mae's holistic coaching philosophy with Mountain Endurance Coaching is a game-changer for any athlete. She unpacks the layers of a well-rounded training regimen that includes aerobic exercises, strength training, and mental coaching. Learn how she maintains peak performance through seasonality and team-based support, and get invaluable tips on managing performance anxiety through visualization techniques. Whether you're an ambitious trail runner or just starting out, Anna Mae’s insights into balancing training and avoiding burnout are essential listening.

Discover the intricate details of the 2024 trail running season and the technical challenges of VK (Vertical Kilometer) races. From overcoming a major hip surgery to mastering the art of altitude acclimation, Anna Mae’s journey is filled with lessons on resilience. Listen to her candid thoughts on racing strategies, injury recovery, and the sheer joy of running. This episode promises to leave you motivated, informed, and ready to tackle your next big race. Tune in and let Anna Mae Flynn's remarkable story inspire your own trail running adventure!

Anna Mae Flynn IG - @annamaeflynn
Mountain Endurance Team @mountainenduranceteam
www.mountainenduranceteam.com

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The Sub Stuff Ep 3 | This Week in Sub-Ultra ! HochKönig Skyrace & European Off-Road Champs - Uphill & Updown Recaps Plus Go Pro Mountain Games Preview 

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