Episode 128 - Up first on today's show is an interview with Pat Patterson, race director from Ragnar Trail Relays. We ran the Georgia stop of that event for the 2nd straight year, and despite some serious rain, had a great time.

The next set of interviews are from Georgia's Spring Savage Race. After interviewing "Operations Manager", Garfield Griffiths , we decided to take a slightly different approach to this episode.

Rather than talking to all of the top finishers, we decided instead to talk to some different kinds of folks. Starting with the owner of the property, and then several everyday finishers to see what they thought of the race. Enjoy.

Today's episode is sponsored by BattleFrog Series, they have upcoming races in 9 more cities in 2015. Use code BATTLEORM for $10 off any city.

Show Notes:

Savage Race Georgia Spring 2015 Video

Georgia Ragnar Relay 2015 Recap

Episode 127 - On today's show, our guest is Selica Sevigny. Find out how an adventure hike down the Appalachian Trail turned into a massive career and lifestyle change for Selica and her fiancé. Such is the kind of thing that can happen when you end up in the crosshairs of Joe Desena and Andy Weinberg in the Vortex that is Pittsfield, Vermont

Selica talks about what happened in that fateful summer of 2009, how she and the founders came up with the name Spartan Race, and what it's been like holding onto the Canadian reigns of the rocket ship that is Spartan. 

Today's episode is sponsored by Muddy Brute, a new race coming to Georgia this Fall. Use code ORM25 to save $25.00!

Show Notes:

Spartan Race Canada

Death Race 2009 Video 

A really old original Spartan Race website we found.

Episode 126 - On today's show, we speak with Rachael Nuwash about MuckFest MS. She talked to Matt B. about the races cool history (going back 10 years), and their fantastic cause.

Short and sweet, enjoy our 2nd podcast this week.

Today's episode is sponsored by Stunt Run. Use code ORM15 to save $15 at any location.

Click here to listen or press the large red button below.

You can also find this and all past episodes on iTunes and Stitcher.

Show Notes:

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Episode 124 - On today's show, we talk to several top finishers from the Spartan Race in the Bahamas. They include Brakken Kraker, Cassidy Watton, Deanna Blegg, Isaiah Vidal, Karlee Whipple, and Orla Walsh, all from the beautiful island of Great Stirrup Cay. We also have a longer one on one interview with Ryan Kent on the cruise ship, the next day.

Today's episode is sponsored by Muddy Brute,  Macon Mud Run, and BattleFrog.

Use our discount codes for great deals on these races!

Show Notes:

Previous Cruise Podcasts with Evan Dollard and TimnJosh from Spartan Gap Year.

ORM's Spartan Bahamas Cruise Race Video

Episode 123 - Today's show starts with interviews from BattleFrog Orlando that took place on March 14th. Matt talked to Isaiah Vidal, Air Force Ken, and Chris "Beard" Acord. Ken took 3rd place even though Isaiah finished ahead of him on the course. Find out why in these interviews.

We then hear from Ryan Atkins, Lindsay Webster, and Jennette Gardner after their impressive finishes.

Then you will hear Matt's interview with Tim and Josh from Spartan Gap Year from the Spartan Cruise. These two are spending a year hitting 50 plus races, meeting lots of folks, and having one heck of an adventure.

Enjoy.

Today's episode is sponsored byThe Udder Mud Run, Rugged Maniac and Savage Race. 

Show Notes:

Finish line (and other photos) from Orlando BattleFrog

Spartan Gap Year Facebook Page

Find out who Lleyton Hewitt is

Episode 122 - Evan Dollard had a very direct approach to getting on American Ninja Warrior. He sent them tape of his role as TV's "Rocket" from American Gladiators. Evan talks about working with icons like Dan "Nitro" Clark and The Hulkster, on the reboot of that famous show. Evan also explains why he thinks the new version of American Gladiators died an early death. Right in the middle of the interview, Evan delivers what would be the perfect ending, but unfortunately, Matt still needed to ask him about American Ninja Warrior. So there's 20 more good minutes on ANW. Enjoy.

Today's episode is sponsored by BattleFrog Series, Savage Race, and The Udder Mud Run.

Show Notes:

Evan's first ANW audition tape

Mike Adamle-Where are they now? 

Episode 121 - McCauley Kraker (Mac) grew up in an athletic family. He would go on to become a collegiate runner with some success. Then he decided running wasn't for him and spent a lot of time on the couch. Eventually, his older brother Brakken (who had been tearing it up on the OCR circuit) convinced Mac to try a Spartan with him. He finished 4th despite having not run for a year. He has picked up the pace and was recently named to the Spartan Stadium Pro Team.

Listen in to learn more about McCauley's journey which includes his days as part of a Midwest blackjack card counting crew, and his recent trip to to the Middle East for the first ever Spartan Race in Dubai.

Today's episode is sponsored by Savage Race, Day of Crisis, and The Macon Mud Run.

 Show Notes:

Mac's Blog-Blue Highways

A great book about card counting - Bringing Down The House

Episode 120 - Before Amelia. Before Pak. Before Olof Dallner, Shelly Koenig, or Mark Webb. There was Stefanie Bishop. Stefanie was the overall winner of the Peak Races Winter Snowshoe "Death Division" in March of 2010. A few months later it was renamed the Death Race, and she was the first female finisher for the Summer version. (Joe Decker was the first male and overall winner).

Much like another endurance champ, Mark Jones, Stefanie would also go on to complete the 2nd ever Spartan Race in Brooklyn, NY and the first ever Tough Mudder in Pennsylvania, all in 2010.

In this interview Matt talks to Stefanie about those early adventurous beginnings, why she disappeared for a couple of years, and why she’s back. She just received another skull at the Mexico Death Race and then won the brand new Gauntlet in Macon, Georgia, the very next weekend. We also get her first hand account of this year’s Winter Tough Guy and why it was her first DNF. Oh, and they talk about ice cream.

You also may hear Matt’s children in the background as this interview was recorded in his home office.

Today’s episode is sponsored by: Down and Dirty Obstacle Race and Rugged Maniac.

Show Notes:

Report from the 2010 Summer Death Race

Sufferfest clip-What near death looks like from this past Winter Tough Guy.

Gauntlet Recap by Devin Cas

Episode 115 - Cupid's Undie Run 2015

In today's episode, we have a phone interview with Cupid's Undie Run founder, Bobby Gill. Joining Bobby on the call are two of his local race directors: Hannah Thompson from Atlanta and our very own Brinksy from Nashville.

Tune in to learn how Cupid's got started and how it's grown exponentially while many themed runs have flamed out. They will be in 35 cities in the United States and 3 more in Australia in 2015.

Today's Episode is sponsored by Macon Mud Run, taking place April 11, 2015.

Show Notes:

Episode 80 from Feb 27, 2014. This is where we first met Hannah and checked out this race for the first time.

Sam Cooke- "Cupid" Still a killer track after 54 years.

Episode 114 - In today's episode, Alex Patterson from Tough Mudder talks about surviving the windstorm from last November's Vegas World's Toughest Mudder, the truth about tear gas (and some other new obstacles), and Tough Mudder's vision for its events and community for 2015 and beyond.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Rugged Maniac.

You can also find this and all past episodes on iTunes and Stitcher.

Show Notes:

Here is a peek at the 2015 Tough Mudder Redefined Video.

In contrast, here is the Tough Mudder 2012 Official Video

Episode 113 - Mark Jones did the 2nd ever Spartan Race in Brooklyn NY, back in 2010. His performance got him free entry into Summer Death Race. He finished, but swore he would never do it again. Find out how his path brought him back to Pittsfield again and again until he finally moved there in 2013. We also talk about he trains to not just finish, but win, The Death Race, World's Toughest Mudder and Joe Decker's Suck and Ultimate Suck. The only thing Mark hasn't finished is the grueling GORUCK Selection. We talk about what went wrong in previous attempts, and how he plans to finish the next time around.

Today's epsiode is sponsored by Udder Mud Run. 

Show Notes

News coverage of Spartan Race. Brooklyn, NY. August 2010.

Episode 112 - Happy Holidays everyone! We have been wanting to get Jason on the line for a long time. We wasted no time with the standard "How did you start GORUCK?" questions as that story can be found many other places and got right to the good stuff.

Matt and Jason talk about manufacturing gear, Selection, Kill that 5K, Nasty, GORUCKPalooza, and the ups and downs of the business of GORUCK.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mad Anthony Mud Run.

Show Notes:

GORUCK's official coverage and video of Selection015

Sign up for Kill That 5K

ORM's review of the first (and only so far) GORUCK Nasty obstacle course

Episode 111 - Today's episode has two conversations. The first is the kind you have come to expect from this podcast, an interview with a race director. We talk to Warren Caputo who puts on Muddy Duck Dash. It's a fantastic small scale OCR in Georgia. Listen in to hear about the simple, yet fun and creative things this race does. We wish them much success and hope more and more people come and check them out.

The 2nd interview goes in a very different direction. We talk to Dennis Caco from something called The Undress. Dennis and his business partner April created this very cool product which solves a common problem for runners, and other athletes who need to change their clothes on the go. Watch their kickstarter video linked above, then listen in. We learn about what it was like to seek out $22,000 and end up with $615,000 in donations. We also talk about why we think the OCR crowd will love this product and much more.

Today's episode is sponsored by Battlefrog Series. They've recently announced a massive payout for their 2015 championship series. Use code BATTLEORM for $10 off any 2015 registration.

Episode 110 - Kristin and Yishai Horowitz  put on adventure races and triathlons through their company, All Out Events. Back in 2007 they also got the idea to put on a mud run. In OCR years, 2007 makes 2010 look like 1985, so they were waaay ahead of the curve. We talk to them about a proposal they wrote which shows what the mud landscape looked like 7 years ago. We also learn about how they've successfully carved out their own race community and avoided the boom/bust of many other companies that failed around them. 

Today's episode is sponsored by Udder Mud Run. Udder Mud Run returns to Covington Georgia on Aug 8, 2015. Use Code RUNORM for $10.00 off.

Episode 109 - As one of a handful of Barkley Ultramarathon finishers in the world, ever, Nickademus Hollon entered WTM with tons of respect from the OCR community. Many were considering him a contendor to win it all. In Episode 107, we had a nice chat where he talked about how his massive ultramarathon training experience could really benefit him in a race like this. He ended up with only his 2nd ever DNF. We talk to him and find out what happened.

Amelia Boone missed the Spartan World Championships and the OCR World Championships as she chose to have major surgery about 3 months ago. Her return to World's Toughest was also her return to the top as she was crownded champion again.

Ryan Atkins got to stand in Pak's shoes and feel what it's like to contend when everyone knows exactly who you are. He promptly defended his title against arguably the most competitive field to date. 

Today's show is sponsored by Mad Anthony Mud Run.  Mad Anthony was known for his tenacity, intensity and character; we hope that you will bring those same attributes as you complete this adventurous challenge including numerous “battles” that will confront you along the way. Register now for just $35.00

You can find additional episodes for the Obstacle Racing Media Podcast on iTunes and Stitcher.

Show Notes:

Matt B's awesome new microphone

The Barkley Marathons

Amelia's WTM 2014 blog post

Ryan Atkins blog

Nickademus WTM 2014 blog post

Episode 108 - In today's show, we talk to with 3 top finishers from this year's World's Toughest Mudder.

Allison Tai is like many Canadian athletes we have met in recent months. She's sweet, humble, and really good at obstacle racing. She won the Edmonton Spartan Sprint in July and the Canadian Spartan Ultra Beast in September. She then turned in an impressive 4th at the Spartan Super in Sacramento a few weeks later. At WTM, she beat all but 24 of the men and bested every woman other than Amelia Boone, completing 14 laps and 70 miles before time ran out.

Despite great credentials, Miguel Medina and Hunter McIntyre showed up under the radar to WTM with Team Wolfpack Spartan. They then spent the next 24 hours (plus) fighting off Under Armour Team Australia to take home the 1st place team prize.

Today's show is sponsored by Mad Anthony Mud Run.  Mad Anthony was known for his tenacity, intensity and character; we hope that you will bring those same attributes as you complete this adventurous challenge including numerous “battles” that will confront you along the way.

Show Notes:

Miguel Medina 60 Minutes Sports from Spartan Malibu 2013

Hunter McIntyre's 20 pound weightvest challenge video

Allison Tai Athlinks Page

Episode 107 - We are in Las Vegas and nearby Henderson, Nevada for Part One of this year's World's Toughest Mudder Coverage.

Listen to pre WTM interviews with:

Hanna Copper - First timer with big goals

Matty Gregg -Big money raiser and WTM Community Admin

Mandy Baskin -4 time WTM competitor

Shenoa Creer - Representing ORM

Team Under Armour Australia - A strong team favorite featuring last year's female winner Deanna Blegg

Matthew Hanson - Last year's 4th place finisher

Amelia Boone - Lover of Poptarts

Team 3AM Waterfalls - Last year's Team Winners

Ken Jacobus - Founder of WTM Community

Junyong Pak - Post race arm wrestler

Jim Campbell - The Goat

Nolan Kombol -Tough Mudder Director of Process Innovation and WTM Course Designer

Will Dean -CEO of Tough Mudder

Nickademus Hollon - Barkley's Winner, Ultraracing Super Badass

Episode 106 - Noah Galloway lost two of his limbs in 2005. He has not let that stop him from completing obstacle races and being an inspiration to thousands, but you probably already knew that. Matt B. caught up with Noah to ask him about being on the cover of Men's Health and appearing on Ellen. Before Matt could do that, Emma and Jaxson (two of Matt's kids) had a few questions of their own.

Today’s episode is sponsored by BattlefrogSeries. Check them out now to see all the cities they will be hitting in 2015. Use code BATTLEORM for race entry discounts.

You can find additional episodes for the Obstacle Racing Media Podcast on iTunes and Stitcher.

Show Notes

Noah's Website

Jeff Marier interview with Noah from 2011 Georgia Warrior Dash

Episode 105 - Ben Greenfield is not a Jew. He is a man who lives his passion covering fitness and nutrition as an author, speaker, and podcaster. Ben started The Obstacle Dominator Podcast earlier this year with Spartan Cover Boy Hunter McIntyre. We talk to Ben about how that little friendship began and several other interesting topics which include: Fitness pseudo science, tips on business success, and how he actually isn’t Jewish.

Today’s episode is sponsored by BattlefrogSeries. Check them out now to see all the cities they will be hitting in 2015. Use code BATTLEORM for race entry discounts.

Show Notes

All Things Ben Greenfield

The Four Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss

1000 True Fans by Kevin Kelly

Episode 104 - On today's show, you'll get a taste of what it was like to be at the Obstacle Racing World Championships that took place in Oregonia, Ohio last weekend.

We start Friday night as you'll hear brief chats with Dutch OCR blogger Dirk Schrama, and Mr. On My Way To Sparta, Jeff Cain.

After a quick check-in Saturday morning with Amelia Boone before the race starts, we catch the top 4 elite men as they finished followed by the first 3 elite women.

Today's episode is sponsored by Battlefrog Series. Miami Battlefrog is happening in a couple of weeks and the 2015 calendar has several dates already. Use code "BattleORM" for discounts.

We have Lots of bitchin photos here.

Show Notes

Dirk Schrama - Obstakels.com (Google will translate for you, if you let it).

Jeff Cain - Obstacle Racer's Prayer

Amelia Boone - Profile on SBNation

Jon Albon- http://www.jonathanalbon.com/

Ryan Atkins- http://ryanatkinsdietrecipebook.blogspot.com/

Hobie Call - http://www.hobiecall.com/

Cimmie Wignell -  Video of Cimmie winning Toughest.

Siri Englund -Profile interview from Dirt In Your Skirt

Cassidy Watton - Athlinks profile

Episode 103 - In today’s episode, we spoke to Kimber Mattox and Renee Baillie, two women who drove down from the runner’s haven of Bend, Oregon to crush the recent Warrior Dash World Championship. Listen in to find out how Renee almost didn’t show up at all, and how both of them had very different predictions about the outcome. You will also hear the exciting news that they have now caught the OCR bug. 

Episode 102 - Today’s episode is a conversation with Adrian Bijanada, the man who created The Obstacle Racing World Championships. What started as a vision is now fast becoming a reality in Ohio next weekend. Adrian answers questions about every question we threw at him including qualifications, prize money, course markings, penalties, future race sites and much much more.

Enjoy.

Episode 101- In today’s episode, we welcome back Joe Desena to the program. 

Joe just had an incredible weekend so we are excited to rush this episode up and get it to you right away. 

First he completed the Spartan Ohio race from a wheelchair. He was challenged by Michael Mills, Nubs from More Heart Than Scars, and some others to complete a Spartan race from a completely different perspective.

Joe talks about the incredible experience he had doing this and the decision it led him to regarding future Adaptive Athletes heats at Spartan Race.

Shortly after this race, Joe drove about 400 miles to do a 50k race with his 8 year old son Jack, which we also discussed.

We then talk a little about the upcoming Spartan Cruise.

Episode 100-Vermont Beast 2014

At the end of July of 2012, Matt B. left a weekend trip from Pittsfield, Vermont with the idea that talking to people in the obstacle racing world would make for a cool podcast. 

27 months and 99 episodes later, we find ourselves back in Vermont, in nearby Killington, for the 2014 Spartan Beast Championship Race.

On today’s show you will hear from Deanna Blegg, Junyong Pak, Jonathan Albon, Ryan Atkins, Cody Moat, Hunter McIntyre, Chad Trammell, Isaiah Vidal, Claude Godbout, Corinna Coffin, James Appleton, Matt Novakovich, Orla Walsh, Jackie Rust, Knut Hohler, Lindsay Webster, Morgan McKay, April Dee and Rose Wetzel.

It has truly been a pleasure, here is to the next 100.

Today’s episode is sponsored by MudGear

Episode 99 - In today's episode, we bring you awesome interviews from the Amesbury, MA Spartan Race which took place on August 9^th of this year.

We interviewed top male and female finishers including Cody Moat, Isaiah Vidal, Glenn Racz, Junyong Pak, April Dee, TyAnn Clark, and Corinna Coffin. They gave us their thoughts shortly after finishing the race (before the TV cameras got to them)

We also spoke to few special guests: A kick-ass mother daughter duo known as Sue-Nami and TNT, Heather Run To Inspira who runs races with a lot more than just a bib number, and Paul Jones, one of the admins for the New England Spahtens.

Last we checked in with Mike Morris from Spartan. As always gives us some great insight into what goes on behind the scenes at Spartan.

Today's episode is sponsored by Men's Health Urbanathlon.

Episode 98-Yassine Diboun is an ultrarunner who likes to poop in the woods. He also has put up some great race performances including a 10th place at Western States. Matt B. sat down with Yassine when he was in Portland earlier this Summer. They enjoyed a run, several meals, and this great conversation.

Josue Stephens runs Fuego Y Agua events, which are extreme endurance races that take place all over the globe. In this episode, Josue talks about what happened with The Celts over in The U.K. and some of what racers can expect in the upcoming Hunter Gatherer events in Texas.

Today's episode is sponsored by Men's Health Urbanathlon.

Yassine's ultra results can be found here.

Fuego Y Agua events website.

Episode 97 - Mark Webb has done several Death Races and has a few skulls. He has also done almost 50 GORUCK Challenges, Lights, and Heavies (including the first GORUCK Selection).  A few days ago he was in a motorcycle accident that left him without part of his left leg. Ever the positive dude, he is already looking forward to the races and events he can do and the people he can have an effect on.

Joshua Gustin Grant is an obstacle racer and Death Racer. He also recently won an arm wrestling national championship, left AND right handed. Matt sat down with Joshua with the intention of discussing the finer points of arm wrestling. It turned out to be a conversation about so much more, including, health and diet “myths", yoga, and God. 

Today’s show is sponsored by Men’s Health Urbanathlon.

Episode 96 - Val Smith and "Crazy" Pete Coleman trained very hard leading up to the 2014 Summer Death Race. This resulted in both of them finishing and getting skulls. Matt B. sat down with them for some dinner conversation a few weeks after the event.

Topics include some insight into the shitshow that was Saturday night, what they did over at Peter Borden’s on Sunday, how deep they had to deep to finish and if they ever thought the race would end.

There is also some never heard before bonus footage from the crew that saved Matt B. and Flo from their adventure we learned about in the last episode.

Today’s episode is sponsored by MudGear.

Episode 95 - When runner after runner cramped and/or dropped from last year’s Vermont Beast Championship race, Will Swope found himself all the way up in 5th place. One mental lapse later, he found himself DQd from the race. We caught up with him after his 2nd place finish at this year’s Vegas BADASS Dash to find out what happened.

Flo Barnes is a superior athlete who came in 2nd at the Winter Death Race back in January. So why did she spend around 24 hours with Matt B. at June's Summer Death Race? Listen in to find out how one wrong turn, led to more wrong turns, and an experience neither of them will ever forget.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Mudgear. 

Episode 94 - Two years ago, Matt was openly challenge/threatened to do a GORUCK Challenge by a podcast listener while interviewing Cadre Devin. In today’s episode, we go back and recapture that moment. Fast forward 24 months and Matt finally completed GRC 1092 on July 4th of this year in Atlanta, GA. Listen in as Matt and Doug discuss encouraging strangers to work like a team, keeping participants from quitting, "embracing the zero", and how Doug brings his brand of specialness to each GORUCK.

Bonus: Making her 2nd appearance on the show today is special guest Emma Davis.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Men’s Health Urbanathlon.

'

Episode 93 - At approximately hour 48 of this Summer’s Death Race, two busses rolled into Pittsfield. One was a large, luxury, white tour bus and one was a standard yellow school bus.

Racers had to choose which bus to get on for what they were told would be a 16 hour journey. 

Many lessons were learned about these choices as the race went on and long after.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mudgear.

Episode 92 - In today’s show-ORM brings you more obstacle goodness than you can shake a spear at. We’ve got:

Paddy McGarry from Tough Mudder telling us about new obstacles and Mudder  Legion.

Adam Ruppel from Mud Hero talking about what they do well and how to get the most  mud possible at an ocr event.

Don Mann, Hobie Call, Garfield Griffiths, and Alec Blenis from the most recent BattleFrog event

  AND

 Orla “The Vermonster” Walsh discussing her plan to take over the OCR podium from  the current champions.

Today's episode is sponsored by Men's Health Urbanathlon.

Episode 91 - We've got several interviews from the 2014 Death Race on tap for you in the next few episodes. We start it off with today's subject, Andy Weinberg.

In the middle of this year's Summer Death Race, Matt B. sat down for a long interview with Andy. For those that don't know, Andy, along with Joe Desena, helped create the Death Race, which eventually led to the creation of Spartan Race.

Andy talks about how it all began and what caused him to move to Pittsfield, VT. We talk some about the magic of the people, and the town behind The Death Race. He also regales us with a few stories of race shenanigans that involve Joe Desena and others.

Today's episode is sponsored by Men's Health Urbanathlon. Use code ORM to receive 20% of your entry. Register now at MHURB.com

Episode 90 - On today’s episode, we visit Warrior Dash Georgia 2014 and have some cool chats. We start by talking to the people who finished the course the fastest, Yuri Force, Shenoa Creer, and Ashley Martin. Next up is  “Blind Pete”, a visually impaired man who completes obstacle races. Last, we spend a few minutes with Red Frog Events Mischief Manager, Katelyn Boyle about this year’s Georgia course.

The 2nd half of the show is an interview with Mark Silvers from Endeavor Team Challenge. They have a 30 hour, 40 plus mile, endurance event that we know you are going to want to check out.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Men’s Health Urbanathlon. Use the code ORM to receive 20% off your entry. Register NOW at MHURB.com

Episode 89- Happy Father's Day Everyone. Listen in as Matt talks to Robb McCoy of the F.I.T. Challenge. Robb is one of the good guys producing quality homegrown obstacle races. Find out how he works with other local RDs to be successful and help grow a great local scene in New England.  (You may also hear River, the youngest member of the Davis clan, in the background as Matt was on daddy duty during this interview)

In addition, we speak with Rose Wetzel. This interview was recorded at the USOCR conference in Atlanta back in April. Rose has stormed the scene winning several Spartan Races in recent months. In this chat, we get to know a lot about Rose and learn some of her thoughts on the current state of the industry.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Race The Reaper.  Every year, at least half of their obstacle designs are different. Reaper faithfuls are always wondering what’ s next. Train Hard and Prove It July 19th, 2014!

Episode 88 - In today's episode, Matt B. talks to Jeff Suffolk, Co-Founder of Human Movement Management. We initially met Jeff last year when HMM  took over for Run For Your Lives which went under mid-season.

Matt had the opportunity to visit HMM Headquarters in Louisville, Colorado and see how they operate for a day or so.

Matt and Jeff discuss the following:

Is the current beer mile record on YouTube legit and beatable?

Is soccer more interesting than American football?

What does the future hold for ocr/fun events or what Jeff calls "Active Entertainment"?

What in the hell is the event Human Movement planning for August of 2015? 

(Hint: It involves tree houses)

Today's episode is sponsored by Mud Hero. Check out the mud run rated tops in Canada the last two years.

Episode 87-In today's episode, we catch up with Anthony Matesi. Anthony was once a dude like you or me, now he works for Spartan leading their 12 hour Hurricane Heats amongst other duties. Let's find out how he got there and what he has in store for those that attempt the HH.

The next conversation is with Julie Johnston of Las Vegas' Camp Rhino. Find out how this one of a kind entrepreneur had fun with bootcamp and obstacles before they were cool. In the process, another amazing OCR community was born in a city known for anything but fitness.

Today's episode is sponsored by Race The Reaper.

First up is a brief interview with Billy Findeiss and Noah Galloway from our visit to Alabama. Billy is one of the Race Directors for the St. Clair Scramble. Noah Galloway is very good at being Noah Galloway.

St. Clair Scramble Flyer

Next up, we talk to Blas Elias. Blas was in the hair-metal band Slaughter, and now performs in the Las Vegas Blue Man Group. He found obstacle racing recently so we tracked him down and hooked him up with some OCR peeps to run with. We talk about how a dude who likes to run and eat healthy survived the insane lifestyle that was the Metal 80s. 

Blas (Far Right) with Blue Man and Tiffanie and Matt Novakovich

Today's episode is sponsored by Race The Reaper.

Episode 85 - A few weeks ago, ORM gave you a recap from the USOCR Conference that took place in Atlanta in April.

On this week's podcast episode we bring you several interviews that took place during that conference.

You will hear from the following:

• Shelly Bramblett - The former CFO at Ironman who currently works for Human Movement Management
• Grant Reeves- CEO of BADASS Dash and Dockdogs
• Athletes Hunter McIntyre and Hobie Call
• Paul Jones from New England Spahtens
• Sam Mansfield and Mark Ballas from USOCR

This episode will answer several questions you have had about what USOCR is and isn't.

It also may leave you asking a few more.

Today's episode is sponsored by Xtreme Ranger.

Episode 84 -  Starting off, Matt interviews 3 podium finishers from the recent BADASS Dash in Georgia. First up, Devin Caster and Andrew Grizzle who finished 2nd and 3rd. We got their feelings on the course shortly afterwards. Matt then talked to Yuri Force, who has been tearing up all of his local OCRs for a few years. The week after this interview, he would finish 2nd at the Saturday Carolina Spartan Sprint.

Then, Kaitlin Stein does her first interview for the podcast with Margaret Schlachter. Margaret has been on the show numerous times, and we were excited to have her back to talk about her new book.

Today's episode is sponsored by The X-Rated Run

Episode 83-Today, you will hear an interview with Todd Sedlak. Todd has a few Death Race skulls and has helped countless others earn theirs. He is also one of a growing group of people who have turned themselves from obstacle/adventure enthusiasts to obstacle race employee.  In this interview, we learn a little about what makes him tick and what led him to the world of OCR.

We also hear from several top finishers from this past weekend’s Carolina Spartan Sprint.  On the women’s side, they are Amelia Boone, Brittany Duckworth, Juliana Sproles, Melanie Jones, and Val Smith. On the men’s side, we talk with Matt Novakovich, Elliott Megquier, Dennis Welch, and David Magida. This interview contains smack talk which may be offensive to sensitive listeners.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Mud Hero. Check out the mud run rated tops in Canada the last two years.

In today’s episode we talk to Don Mann from Battlefrog Race Series. They are the newest kids on the block in OCR and are coming on strong. We will find out about Don’s special relationship with Joe Desena, and everything else that Battlefrog has prepared for the OCR scene.

Tom McCormack is the Director of Product Management of Spartan Race. To us, he will always be Tommy Mac. He's been around since the early days of Spartan and clues us in to a lot of what goes on behind the scenes. He has always been open and approachable. His goal is to always find out what Spartan can do better, and it’s why we have wanted to sit down with him for some time.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mud Hero. Check out the mud run rated tops in Canada the last two years.

Episode 81 - Today’s episode includes interviews with some of the podium finishers from the Georgia Spartan Race. 

You will hear from Alec Blenis, Elliott Megquier, David Magida, Sarah Pozdol, Valerie Smith, Amanda Ricciardi, Kristine Iotte, and TyAnn Clark.

We wrap up the episode with an interview Mike Morris, Vice President of Production at Spartan Race, about all those obstacle specs you’ve been dying to know.

We are sponsored today by Xtreme Ranger. Check them out on May 17, 2014 in Dahlonega, Georgia

Episode 80 - Today’s episode features an interview with Hannah Thompson of the Cupid Undies Run. You will learn why Matt B dediced to run his underwear (or did he), and the great cause they are up to over at CUR.

Also, we have a nice chat with Dr. Eric Richards and Andrew Griffin of The Garage Games/Firebreather Challenge. You will hear what has worked and not worked for them about putting on obstacle races, and where they are going

with crossfit competitions, OCR, and adventure racing. (endurance OCR).

This episode is sponsored by BADASS Dash. Back again with more cities and more obstacles in 2014.

Episode 79 - The episode kicks off talking to Race Director Brian Sharenow of The Bad Ass Dash. They are an obstacle racing series which not only survived last year but thrived and added some new elements for 2014.

Then we look at the long awaited first race of Extreme Nation. The $40,000 cash purse attracted some of the best OCR athletes in the country. You will hear many on site interviews including Ella Kocuiba, Alec Blenis, David Magida, Hunter McIntyre, Janice Marie Ferguson, Hobie Call and more. After that you will hear what happened in the days that followed as we talk to Hobie again as well as Randy Yoho to discuss the changes and future of Extreme Nation.

Episode 78 - Matt B. went to California last week to take on the Temecula Spartan Sprint. He got a chance to meet lots of great west coast folks while visiting, which inspired this episode. You will hear the meeting of the podcast minds, as he sits down with Laurie Hale of the Getting Dirty Podcast. He also plays an interview with Ernesto Gonzales. Ernesto took on the 5 Race Rodina Challenge with some interesting results.

Today's episode is sponsored by Goliathon.com. It's not a race, it's a mission.

Episode 77-Michael Mills lost the use of his legs in 1993. We met him a year ago when we helped put a group together to help him climb Stone Mountain.

Later in 2013, he went on to be the first paralyzed athlete to complete the Georgia Spartan Sprint and the Carolina Spartan Beast. He also participated in the 2013 Peak Races Summer Death Race.  

His stories have been featured in blogs posts and Facebook and have been an inspiration to many.

We finally got a chance to sit down for an interview with him to learn about his past, present, and future.

Enjoy.

Episode 76 - The first episode of 2014 is the last episode on the 2013 World's Toughest Mudder.

Matt had phone conversations with Male winner Ryan Atkins and 2nd place female Maggi Thorne. We get their thoughts a few days after the event was over and they had some time to reflect on their accomplishments.

This episode is sponsored by Kimbia Racing.

Episode 75- You may want to listen to Parts I and II before proceeding.

Part 3 picks up where we left off, early Sunday Morning, November 17th in Englishtown, NJ.

We talk to the following people at or near the end of the race.

Team 3 AM Waterfalls

Megan Jaswell

Junyong Pak

Deanna Blegg

Ryan Atkins

Amy Pajcic

A few days later, we checked in via phone with Deanna, The guys from 3AM, and Pak to see how they felt after the race.

This means there will still be a Part IV to get more post race reactions.

Today's episode is sponsored by Extreme Nation.

Episode 74-We pick up on the World’s Toughest Mudder on Saturday morning November 16th prior to the start of the race. This episode will take us through to about 5am on Sunday the 17th. You will hear from some of the folks from the previous episode plus: Nele Schulze Laurence Borst Team Sons of Poseiden Team Four Horsemen Todd Sedlak Team Shark School Amelia Boone And some volunteers and staff from TMHQ.

Episode 73-Today's interviews start on Friday November 15, 2013 as we meet some of the participants from this year's World's Toughest Mudder.

In this episode, you will hear from the following:   

In later episodes, we will check back in with some of these people and meet some new ones as well.

Let's dig in shall we?

Episode 72 Fred Smith joins Matt for a chat about their get together a few weekends ago. The Smithfest Events crew brought Matt up to Boston to experience Panic In The Dark and a sneak peak into their mayhem behind the scenes. Listen in to learn about how Panic went and how Matt and Fred bonded for life at 4:00am.

The 2nd interview in today's episode is with Jon Watson of JWatsonTV. Jon is the only guy we know that actually gets paid to run around with his GoPro. Jeff Marier (ORM's videographer) and Matt got to catch up with Jon at the Hit and Run 5K obstacle race in Conyers Georgia.

Today's episode is brought to you by Pretty Muddy. They have remaining events this year in Orlando and Tampa. Check them out at prettymuddywomensrun.com.

Episode 71-Yesterday, Run For Your Lives cancelled all future events including one this weekend. This morning Ruckus Events cancelled their Boston event which was also scheduled for this weekend. Just when we were all wondering when will the madness stop? When many were thinking "Will I ever be able to register for a race put on by anyone but the Big 3 and feel confident the race will happen?"

Jeff Suffolk from Human Movement Management contacted Obstacle Racing Media and said "No Mas".

Human Movement already produces a a bevvy of successful races such as The Color Run, Dirty Girl Mud Run, 5k Foam Fest and many more. Today he and Matt talked about where his company came from, where the industry is going, and why he wants to give customers a great experience even if he has to lose some money on the front end to do so.

We were thrilled to be the ones to break the great news this morning, and we are thrilled to bring you this interview in it's entirety. 

Episode 70-In this week’s episode Matt first talks to Tanner Bell of Ragnar Events. If you have thought about doing a Ragnar Relay, this will be a great listen. This is a cool dude who puts on great events for runners nationwide.

Also, Jonathan Nolan from CornFed Spartans came back on the show to talk about just what happened on Day 4 of what was a 3 day Summer Death Race. He also talks about the difference between the Joe Desena/Andy Weinberg insanity of a Death Race and the Joe and Nicole Decker insanity of an Ultimate Suck.

Episode 69-In today's show, we revisit a couple of events from previous episodes.

Sam Abbitt is the founder and CEO of Savage Race. We first met him back on Episode 7 in July of 2012. Since then, Savage has put on many successful races in several markets. We catch up with Sam to find out what they are doing right and what is next.

Next we catch up with Hunter Brucks, the new "man with the plan" over at Extreme Nation. EN has resurfaced and their first event is scheduled near Tampa, Florida in February of 2014.

Hunter tells me they still plan on having large payouts ($40k) at each race. Also, Hobie Call and his vision of a spectator friendly "coliseum" style course are still part of the plan. Listen in to find out what's going to be different this time around and how they plan to make it a success.

Remember, you can still donate to our Indiegogo campaign to get greatly discounted race entries, swag, and have your favorite athlete followed at World's Toughest Mudder.

Today's episode is sponsored by Pretty Muddy and by Ruckus Obstacle Race.

Episode 68- In this episode, you will hear from several elite racers shortly after they crossed the finish line at the hardest obstacle race any of them have done up to this point.

Listen in as these racers share their triumphs, lessons, and disappointments.

There are interviews with the following: Men: Hobie Call -1st, Matt Murphy- 2nd James Appleton-7th, Alec Blenis-14th , Matt Novakovich-18th Women: Amelia Boone -1st, Claude Godbout -3rd

Complete results from that race can be found here.

Today’s Episode is brought to you by Panic In The Dark-The Original Nightmare Obstacle Run.

Episode 67-In part one of our coverage of this year's Spartan World Championship, Matt B. talks to several racers the night before the Vermont Beast Championship Race. There was $15,000 in first place prize money on the line along with thousands more for podium and top ten finishes. It was great to talk to these guys the night before the race to see how they were feeling.  First up is a nice chat with David Magida and Matt Murphy who duke it out verbally the night before they were to duke it out on the course. Next up is Spartan Pro Team member Alec Blenis. Matt talked to him about how he plans to avenge his dissapointing DNF from being part of the Lost Tribe in 2012. Last on the agenda for this episode is James Appleton. James is an englishman who has won Tough Guy UK 3 times and has come over to the US to test himself against the best of the best. I ended up learning a a bunch about Tough Guy and about James. 

Today’s episode is sponsored by Mud Mingle. 

Mud Mingle is a 18+, full-on, fun, crazy, don’t take it to seriously, very messy, and slightly silly, mud/obstacle run with both 5k and 10k options.

Episode 66-This week Matt talks with Cristina Devito of Mudderella and Paul Jones of the New England Sphatens.

Cristina Devito used to be the Chief Strategy Officer at Tough Mudder. She tells us all about how she launched Mudderella and how they plan to take over the women’s mud run world. They have 20 races in the USA, 3 in the UK and 4 in Australia planned for 2014.  Also, It turns out guys can run too. Learn how they can sign up and the other reasons Mudderealla believes they have created the best women's event out there.

Next up is Paul Jones of The New England Spahtens. Paul was at the one of the first Spartan races all the way back in 2010. Find out how that led to him to the center of a Facebook group that has 1,200 members and growing. Matt asks how everyone in a group that size functions well and gets along (or do they). Also, he asks if will they ever change the name since the Spahtens participate in and review every other mud run and obstacle race out there.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Mud Mingle.

Episode 65-Matt talks with Kelly Perez and finds out everything you always wanted to know about The X-Rated Run, but were afraid to ask.

Then, Matt talks to Jeff Rondina and learns just how he pulled of running 5 different races in a 13-hour period.  

Last we hear a quick chat with Nic Zahasky, elite racer and founder of Barrel Aid. Barrel Aid directly helps children in Haiti by providing shoees and water filtration.

Episode 64. In this episode, Matt talks to several athletes from the 8.24.13 Spartan in Virginia. With 8000 feet of elevation change over 8 miles, everyone said it was harder terrain that last year's Vermont Beast. You will hear from the following: Matt Novakovich-the Alaskan that showed up to his first ever Spartan, did zero burpees, and beat Hobie by 5 minutes. Trish Blackwell-The woman who Matt challenged to finish top ten in her first Spartan and she promptly took 2nd on Sunday. Elise Fugowski-The 24 year old who won Saturday's race in just her 3rd Spartan ever. Brian Hoover, a 42 year old from Utah, taking his 3rd Sunday podium of the year. Hobie Call-The most recognizable man at any Spartan Race talks about not being the poster boy anymore.

Episode 63-Joe Desena was on CNBC this morning, you can watch the clip here. I was under the impression that it would be an intelligent conversation about OCR, the growth of the sport, and/or sponsorship dollars. It was not. This gave me a great excuse to call Joe and talk about anything that changed since we last spoke about the big Vermont race. I also wanted to see how he thought the CNBC piece went. Please listen very close to the end of the first segment with Joe for some sage advice.

I was already planning to air interviews which had taken place just days after the Death Race ended. So, lucky you, you get a double dose of Joe Desena on today's podcast. 

You will also hear from Junyong Pak. Pak is best known for being the 2X World's Toughest Mudder. He is also a previous Death Race finisher. It came as a surprise to many when he quit this year's Death Race about 12 hours before it ended. I ask him what happened and if he ever plans on doing the DR again.

Today's episode is brought to you by Man Games. Their amazing first event takes place Sept 6 and 7th.

Episode 62-Inspired by the demise of Hero Rush and the outcries on facebook that followed, I begin this episode talking about what a scam is or isn't.

I then play an interview with Randy Yolo of Mud Endeavor. Randy puts on small, local, high quality, obstacle races with great success. We talk about how simple doesn't mean easy in OCR and how you can build a strong following by doing a few things really well.

Next up is Josue Stevens, the man behind Hunter Gatherer. Josue's FuegoYAgua Survival Run put the OCR/Adventure/Ultra world on it's ear last February with tasks that included carrying chickens, climbing trees, and running around with eggs on people's foreheads. Find out what it's going to take to be a finisher this time around. He also gives a sneak peak about the NEXT Survival Run, which he is alreday planning.

Today's episode is brought to you by Pretty Muddy and by Bone Frog Challege.  

Episode 61-The interviews in this episode kick off with a short call I had with Joe DeSena. He talks about the recent "Spartan Rash" that occured at the recent Spartan Race in Illinois. He also talks about a TV show in the works for NBC. I then, sort of, beg for a job.

Next, I speak with 3 2013 Summer Death Race finishers. Amelia Boone, Olof Dallner, and Pete Coleman.  These 3 all got skulls which means they did everything (or almost everything) asked and outlasted everyone else over the course of 3 days.  I wanted to know how this DR compared to previous ones, and find out what it takes to actually finish one of these things.

(Episode 60) I met Jason Pittman earlier this year through a mutual friend, and we decided to go for an early morning run.

I was surprised to discover that Jason had spent the last 15 years working in the Atlanta rock and hip-hop scene. He produced, managed and booked everyone imaginable.

His list of heavy hitters includes: Lil John, Bone Crusher, Ying Yang Twins, Too $hort, and David Banner.

Find out all of the ways that Jason stayed in the mix.

Also hear about his big break in 2007, producing the Shop Boyz mega hit "Party Like A Rockstar".

I learned a lot about the music business, and I was reminded what it was like to wait in line at the store for a new record.

Tune in for what is one of the most interesting interviews I've done to date.

Today's episode is sponsored by Ruckus.  Use Code ORM15 for $15 any location.

In today's episode (Episode 59), we interview folks from 3 very different events.

UQuest is part scavenger hunt, part scavenger hunt, part unknown. Matt spoke with Anthony Murph, founder, and Steph Dennis, event director in their Atlanta office.

Alex ThunderDart Martin, in his first assignment as West Coast Ops, interviews some people behind Alpha Warrior. He sat down with David Nolan and Joe and Mike Timmons, the 3 men behind the concept of this obstacle only event. He also spent a few minutes with two members of the Alpha Warrior Elite Team Kacy Catanzaro and Brent Steffenson. These two have both been featured on American Ninja Warrior recently and are great ambassadors for the event.

Last, we bring you the interview Matt did with Rob Butler from Shale Hill Adventure which is a permanent course which puts on races and is also one of a kind training center.  Matt did the course with the NE Spahtens while up in Vermont for Death Race weekend and spoke with Rob shortly after doing the course.

Today's Episode is sponsored by Pretty Muddy. A female only obstacle course coming to Chicago, Atlanta, Richmond, Tampa, Miami, and Central Ohio in 2013. Pretty Awesome. Pretty Fun. Pretty Mun.

Part Two picks up on Friday evening June 21. We begin with Andy Weinberg speaking to the familes and crew members shortly after the athletes were sent off to build the "Stairway to Heaven".  As we continue on, we give you a sneak peek inside the mind of Joe Desena as we followed him around as much as possible. You'll hear how he deals with the racers as they decide to quit, keep going, or in one case, beg to be DQ'd.

We also catch some various racers thoughts and feelings throughout the next 48-72 hours. We end with two finishers, Erica Matta and Andrew Hostetler. This duo sums up their experience and the DR experience as a whole rather well.

Today's episode is sponsored by Superhero Scramble. This awesome race has 3 more races to go this year including the marathon distance SuperVillian to take place in Illinois on August 24th.

Housekeeping note: We now have a new permanent home for the podcast on iTunes. 

You probably have not heard of Mandy Baskin. At first glance, she is just an average 38 year old woman who happens to run a hot-air balloon company. Look closer and you will find an athletic champion. She was the 3rd place woman at least year's World's Toughest Mudder completing an impressive 6 laps. She was the only woman to do that other than Amelia Boone, and Deanna Blegg.  Then in March of this year, she won the very muddy, very wet Sunday race at the Carolina Spartan Sprint.

Our 2nd interview is with Cory Mulcock and Jacob Munns of Man Games. What the heck is Man Games?! I was dying to find out as much as you were. Check out their website and listen in to find out how men AND women are going to be blown away by this insane weekend of fun and competition.

In this long awaited episode we take you to Pittsfield Vermont for Part One of the 2013 Summer Death Race.

We begin our journey on Thursday June 20th and talk to some racers as they enjoy their "last meal" before the big event. This leads us to Friday morning's registration, the first tasks, veteran shenanigans, and some other fun interviews all recorded live from Pittsfield.

Like the World's Toughest Mudder and Fuego y Agua episodes that precededed it, we hope the voices and sounds that you hear bring you the experience as if you were there. For those that were, we hope it can bring you back.

Today's episode is brought to you by Man Games. A one day obstacle competition like nothing you have ever seen. 

PS I  also spend a few minutes at the beginning of the episode bringing you up to speed with what has been going on with myself, and ORM.

I met Ernest Miller  through a mutual OCR friend. As I have gotten to know Ernest, I have been fascinated at how quiet, cool, and humble this dude is. Quite the opposite of his character "The Cat" that he portrayed as a professional wrestler for many years.  Back in his WCW and WWE days, he was a heel (bad guy) that people loved to hate.

We sat down and talked about wrestling, acting, OCR, and how being a nice guy has helped him finish first.

Click here to hear the full version of The Cat's wrestling entrance theme.

PS I know many of you have been patiently waiting all of the Death Race interviews, be patient as I will get those episodes up as soon as I can.

I was very skeptical about The O-Run Team Challenge.  Del Boykin told me what almost every race director tells me. That his race is going to kick my butt and will exhaust me. I was pleasantly surprised when 3 friends and I took on the event recently here in Georgia. The obstacles were as heavy/difficult/challenging as any I have come across. (yes, including a Spartan).  Listen in as I talk to Del about his race and how he can replicate this awesome event in other places.

Recently, Tough Mudder decided to open up The World's Toughest Mudder to all participants. They also announced more prize money, special awards, and support crews. You will hear from Nolan Kombol, Head of Course Design at TM as he answers the questions all of you want to know. I also thought it would be a good excuse to catch up with Amelia Boone. I had not spoken with Amelia in a few months and I thought I would catch up with how her year is going and learn her thoughts on this year's WTM changes.

...all that and a very special OCR athlete that has never given an interview anywhere before.

Elliot Megquier is known for one thing. Making the podium (usually first) at Sunday Spartan Races. Wait, two things. He is also known for getting lost a lot. Make that three things, he also talks a lot of smack before, during, and after his races. 

The Rising Tribe is the first OCR where you actually race with your family (as opposed to the children running the kids race later in the day). Listen in to hear how Gary Xavier and his team plan to bring this whole new approach to obstacle racing and mud runs. 

Enjoy.

If you have not heard by now. Hobie Call lost for the first time in any obstacle race less than half marathon distance. He was beaten by Hunter "The Sheriff" McIntyre at the Superhero Scramble Intimidator in Clermont, Florida on Saturday. With less than a mile to go, he was actually in 5th place before turning it on to finish 2nd.

In today's episode, you will hear interviews with Hobie, Hunter, and David Magida. David placed 4th less than 30 seconds behind Hobie. They will all talk about how important swimming was at this race and how that race affected the future of OCR.

I will then play my interview with Rachel Moraes. She is a mom, an english teacher, and part time college student. She runs marathons, OCRs, and ultras. We crossed paths online one day and I was excited to speak with her. This interview took place a few months ago, so I am glad to finally bring it to you.

Having already endured 48 hours of torture known as The Death Race, you think being told that you were disqualified would stop two people from going forward.

Anthony Matesi and Morgan Mckay did what very few could. They kept going even when there was "no hope"

We will chat with them about what brought them individually to the Death Race and how they perservered together.

*Originally brodcast on July 2, 2012

Get the latest episodes at at www.mattbdavisruns.com

On today’s episode I have two great interviews.

One is with the first female OCR director that I have heard of, Nicole Farber. She is bringing her new race to the northeast and is off to some great beginnings. Find all about R3OPS and their special cause.

Next up is Rob with The Great Bull Run. Lots has been said, pro and con, before TGBR has even had their first event. I ask the event director all the questions you are wondering. Are the bulls hurt? Can I die? What were you thinking?

In today's episode, we start by talking about the Triple Race Challenge that I did over the weekend. I successfully completed 3 races in one day and am challenging others to top this feat. Listen in to hear the official announcement on how you can win a free entry to a future OCR event of your choice by doing so.  I will also talk about two of the three races that I did. Savage Race and The Electric Run were both awesome events, for completely different reasons.  Hear me tell you why.

I will then play my interview with Chef Richard Blais. For those that don't know him, Chef Blais won Top Chef All Stars and has begun building a small empire which includes 4 restaraunts in Atlanta alone, a new book "Try This At Home", and tv appearances it seems almost daily.  It turns out he is a runner which gave me a great reason to sit down and talk with him.  We talk about running, food, Top Chef, and some of his future plans. I then attempt to convince him to attempt an obstacle race in the near future.  

Find out more at MattBDavisRuns.com

Another podcast episode chock full of obstacle goodness.

First, I talk a little about the need for some rule tightening over at Spartan.

Then, we have two great interviews for you I have done in recent weeks.

Brad Kloha is going to run 100 races (mostly obstacle) in 52 weeks starting June 15th.  He is on a mission to stop Alzheimer's. Listen in to learn what inspired this cool adventure and how he plans on getting it done.

The other interview is with Tory Fitzgerald of Out-Fit Challenge. The world's first LGBT obstacle race. OCR is already the most fun you can have your clothes (mostly) on. Imagine all that mud and fun with the added the flair of the gay community, hellloooo!

For the 2nd week in a row, there was tragedy around a racing event. Two weeks ago it was the Boston Marathon, and this past weekend it was Tough Mudder in West Viriginia. Avi Sengupta, a 28 year old Maryland resident, died after being submerged underwater for an extended period of time at the "Walk the Plank" obstacle. Matt and Obstacle Racing Magazine are in the middle of interviewing several witnesses and investigating this fully. In the meantime, here is a brief phone call with one of Avi's friends who was on site at Tough Mudder last Saturday.

Cole Lindbergh worked at an amusement park called Worlds of Fun for 14 years. His story was documented on an episode of This American Life. I decided he might be someone who would love to run an obstacle race, so I met him in Wichita to run a new obstacle race called Hard Charge. Listen to find out what Cole has been up to since leaving Worlds of Fun and if he found a new love in obstacle racing.