227. Ryan Montgomery: Creating Community For LGBTQ+ Athletes

Ryan is a runner with a full time job, family man, ultra trail athlete, queer and gay person.

In this episode we talk about:

-dealing with a multitude of injuries

-running identity when you can’t run

-wearing many hats and being more than a runner

-channeling a competitive type A personality

-growing up and running in Alaska

-running 5 marathons in 5 days aged 16

-connecting with your mind, body and surroundings through running

-ultra running unlocking possibilities

-belonging as a queer and gay trail runner

-running retreats to help LGBTQ+ youth find themselves on the trails

-giving back and having an impact

-the pull to run longer and longer

-Ryan’s first ultra marathon

-getting hooked on ultra running to discover yourself and explore the unknown

-growth and development in ultra and trail running

-goal setting

-sustainable motivations for lifelong running

-community being about shared values

Follow Ryan on Instagram @ultra.ryan and For The Long Run @forthelrpod

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Tracksmith

Thank you to Tracksmith for sponsoring this episode.

Tracksmith is an independent running brand inspired by a deep love of the sport. Their Summer Collection, inspired by the blue hues of summer watering holes, is now available and features staples thoughtfully designed for training. From their race-day-ready Van Cortlandt Singlet cut from Tracksmith’s signature 2:09 mesh, to the Allston Half Tights and Shorts built to provide a sleek fit in a minimal silhouette, these pieces are built to work as hard as you do.

Visit Tracksmith.com/forthelongrun to see some of my favorite pieces, and all orders with the code FORTHELONGRUN will receive free shipping, and 5% of your purchase amount will be donated to the Michael J Fox Foundation to help find a cure and support those living with Parkinsons.

Freedom Solar Power

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REVEL Big Cottonwood

This episode is brought to you by the REVEL Race Series. REVEL is an incredibly fast and remarkably beautiful series of full and half marathons that take place in the most scenic U.S. locations. All the races feature a fast downhill slope and spectacular scenery. Their next race takes runners from the canyons of the Wasatch Mountains to the foothills of Salt Lake City, Utah on September 10th for the 10-year anniversary of REVEL Big Cottonwood. Register at runrevel.com with code FTLR for $10 off.