The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman

Joining the panel are Jim Walmsley, an elite ultramarathoner with a focus on goal-driven training; Hillary Allen, a resilient climber and trail runner who overcame a life-threatening fall; and Tabor Hemming, a former NCAA star who found joy in trail racing. They discuss the daily motivations that keep elite athletes committed, with Hillary sharing insights on mindset and recovery after injury. Tabor emphasizes the joy of running, while Jim talks about evolving goals and the importance of community and perspective in their athletic journeys.

Adam Merry, a trail running coach and podcaster, joins to discuss significant cancellations in the sport, including the Pacific Trails by UTMB. He delves into the implications of these events on athlete motivations and goals. The conversation shifts to the new partnership for Gorge Waterfalls, promising a hefty prize purse to attract elite competitors. Previews for upcoming races like JFK and Ultra Trail Cape Town highlight key male and female athletes to watch. The hosts reflect on the influence of prize money and media exposure on race choices.

Tim Tollefson, a former professional trail runner and race director, dives into the evolving trail running scene. He discusses UTMB's recent acquisition of Zugspitz and the implications for independent events. The conversation highlights notable athletes like Molly Seidel and Des Linden transitioning from road to trail, driven by personal motivations and new opportunities. Tollefson also proposes an 'Indy Cup' to unify independent races against corporate consolidation while celebrating local identity in the sport.

Eric Lagerstrom, a seasoned multisport athlete and co-founder of That Triathlon Life, shares his inspiring journey from triathlon to elite trail running. He discusses his impressive 2nd place finish at the Black Canyon 50K and what he learned from the experience. Eric explores the transition in his training methods and the similarities between 50K races and triathlons. He also reflects on the evolution of his brand and how he captures the excitement of multisport, while highlighting the importance of maintaining the essence of independent races in the sport.

This engaging panel features Amie Engebritsen, a professional skier known for her storytelling; Steve DeKoker, a global sports marketing leader; and Adrian Ballinger, a professional alpinist. They delve into how trail running can learn from other sports. Amie discusses redefining success beyond wins, while Steve emphasizes authentic athlete-brand collaborations. Adrian shares insights on guiding and the importance of stewardship in the growing trail running scene. They explore storytelling and how to create stars in the sport, all while preserving its community spirit.

Join industry experts David Callahan, Co-CEO of UltraSignup, Stephen Holmberg, outdoor brand consultant, and race director Rob Goyen as they dive into the future of trail running. They explore trends like the significant growth in participation and the rising influence of run clubs. COVID's impact on race design and community resilience also takes center stage, with insights on how unique race experiences are in demand. With optimism, they discuss innovations shaping events and the exciting potential for female athletes in 2025.

Corrine Malcolm, an experienced trail and endurance journalist, joins for an insightful discussion. They dive into the impact of the Kodiak by UTMB race, the growing buzz around trail running's potential Olympic status, and Courtney Dauwalter's transition to road marathons. Corrine highlights the impressive performances at Diagonale des Fous and the new VK world records set by Remi Bonnet and Axelle Mollaret. The conversation wraps up with a preview of the competitive Javelina Jundred and its golden ticket stakes.

Nina Engelhard, a Double World Mountain & Trail Running Champion from Germany, balances her stunning athletic success with a career as an environmental engineer. She discusses her journey from jogging with her mother to dominating in uphill and classic races. Nina shares the challenges of sudden media attention and her preference for living off the digital grid. With insights into her unique training philosophy that includes low volume and cross-training, she reflects on her emotional victories and the joy of spontaneous race planning.

Jeremy Long, the founder of Daybreak Racing in Portland, shares exciting news about the inaugural Big Alta 100K. He reveals a stunning point-to-point course starting beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, tackling the scenic trails of Marin County. Listeners learn about the steep ascent of Mount Tam, the tough finish at Marinwood, and how the race aims to attract participants from all over. With a three-day trail festival planned, Jeremy discusses logistics and challenges faced in organizing this extraordinary event.

Join elite trail runner Jim Walmsley, a multi-time champion and the newly crowned Long Trail World Champion, as he recounts his gripping victory in Spain. He dives into his unique recovery methods and the mental strategies that define his 'clutch gene.' Discover insights on the technical challenges of the course, the dynamics of team racing, and the critical turning points that shaped his performance. Jim also shares his candid thoughts on the future of trail running, including the prospects of Olympic inclusion and his upcoming race plans.