The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman

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.

Frédéric Tranchand, the 2025 Short Trail World Champion and former elite orienteering star, shares his fascinating journey from navigating forests to trail racing. He delves into how orienteering shapes race strategies, emphasizing the advantage of navigation skills in difficult courses. Tranchand also discusses his preparation with the French team, his transition to skyrunning, and his unexpected lead in the race. He highlights his relationship with fellow athlete Noah Williams and the team's collective goal for medals, rounding off with insights into his upcoming skyrunning challenges.

Remi Bonnet, a Swiss mountain and ski-mountaineering athlete and 2025 Uphill World Champion, shares his journey through injury recovery and his training strategies. He reveals how he utilized cycling and treadmill workouts during his no-run period and emphasizes the unique bounce in his uphill stride, a result of his ski mountaineering background. Remi also discusses his ambitious plans for a vertical world record attempt and highlights the balance between running and ski mountaineering seasons, encouraging others to trust their support during tough times.

Discover the thrilling highlights from the World Mountain & Trail Championships! Nina Engelhardt's stunning double gold steals the spotlight while Lauren Gregory’s breakout performance showcases U.S. talent. The discussion heats up with the fierce competition among African athletes and the unveiling of the team medal standings. Uncover the challenges athletes faced, including wasps and injuries, and hear inspiring tales of perseverance. Plus, a sneak peek at upcoming champion interviews sets the stage for more excitement!

Hear how Jim Walmsley and Katie Scheid clinched gold at the Long Trail, showcasing elite race tactics and sheer endurance. The hosts dive into the teamwork of runners like Louis-san Coife and Benjamin Rubio, and discuss the unusual ruling on medal placements. Check out standout performances and comebacks, including Jasmine Lother and Francesco Puppi's impressive recoveries. With a spotlight on the women's podium dynamics and a glance at the upcoming Classic race, excitement builds for what's next in trail running!