<![CDATA[The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast]]>33e6ee7c-1f12-5ad3-99e6-8d4e8c35c158Fri, 17 Apr 2026 01:30:05 +0000Captivate.fmBrian Gatenshttps://artwork.captivate.fm/2d289792-b440-42c7-9a70-740f04fc130c/1zcZxqYbShWPVZ0cj5pyQF1L.jpgThe Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing PodcastBrian GatensBrian GatensThe Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast welcomes you to our world. Come hear from racers, race directors, fans of AR, and everyone in between. The podcast's out there, you pick it up, it's yours, you don't, I got no sympathy for you. (as inspired by Glengarry Glenn Ross)https://ardarkzone.com/falseepisodichttps://feeds.captivate.fm/thedarkzone/nopodcastTDZ 154 - Welcome to the Other Pitt: 3ROC's Pay What You Want AR in PittsburghTDZ 154 - Welcome to the Other Pitt: 3ROC's Pay What You Want AR in PittsburghKevin Tucker didn't find adventure racing through a slick marketing campaign or a friend with a team slot. He found it because famed RD Grant Killian left the door open to Untamed New England. Now, fourteen years later, Tucker is doing the same thing for Pittsburgh — and his team is taking the philosophy further than most race organizations would dare.

"His Pay What You Want" six and twelve-hour race on May 16th isn't just a pricing model. It's a statement about who this sport is for and who gets left out when we make entry too hard, too expensive, or too intimidating. Tucker — a civil rights attorney by day — brings the same access-first thinking to adventure racing that he's applied in federal court on behalf of athletes with disabilities.

In this conversation, we cover the mechanics of the pay what you want model, the joys and challenges of urban race permitting, what a first-time race director actually loses sleep over, and why Pittsburgh is having a moment that adventure racing should be part of. Plus: Kevin's own racing history, from a wild expedition debut at Untamed New England to a two-person adventure through Endless Mountains 2025 — and one unexpected international adventure that no one saw coming.

Shownotes:

3 Rivers Outdoor Co. website: https://3riversoutdoor.com/

3ROC's Pay What You Want Adventure Race registration website: https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Pittsburgh/3ROCAdventureRace

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Photographer Nic Wynia - https://www.storycityfilms.com/new-gallery-3

]]>Kevin Tucker didn't find adventure racing through a slick marketing campaign or a friend with a team slot. He found it because famed RD Grant Killian left the door open to Untamed New England. Now, fourteen years later, Tucker is doing the same thing for Pittsburgh — and his team is taking the philosophy further than most race organizations would dare.

"His Pay What You Want" six and twelve-hour race on May 16th isn't just a pricing model. It's a statement about who this sport is for and who gets left out when we make entry too hard, too expensive, or too intimidating. Tucker — a civil rights attorney by day — brings the same access-first thinking to adventure racing that he's applied in federal court on behalf of athletes with disabilities.

In this conversation, we cover the mechanics of the pay what you want model, the joys and challenges of urban race permitting, what a first-time race director actually loses sleep over, and why Pittsburgh is having a moment that adventure racing should be part of. Plus: Kevin's own racing history, from a wild expedition debut at Untamed New England to a two-person adventure through Endless Mountains 2025 — and one unexpected international adventure that no one saw coming.

Shownotes:

3 Rivers Outdoor Co. website: https://3riversoutdoor.com/

3ROC's Pay What You Want Adventure Race registration website: https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Pittsburgh/3ROCAdventureRace

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Photographer Nic Wynia - https://www.storycityfilms.com/new-gallery-3

]]>79c492f7-0d9d-4c14-b438-c1799c379305Thu, 16 Apr 2026 21:30:00 -040052:57falsefull31691693TDZ 153 — Same DNA, Different Discipline: Ultra Cycling Comes to The Dark ZoneTDZ 153 — Same DNA, Different Discipline: Ultra Cycling Comes to The Dark ZoneWhat do adventure racing and ultra cycling have in common? More than you think.

This week on The Dark Zone, Brian sits down with David Ayre of Lost Dot — the organization behind some of the world's most demanding ultra cycling events. What starts as a conversation about bikes across continents quickly reveals something familiar: dot watching, control points, self-sufficiency, volunteers as the backbone of the race, and a community built on the same ethos we live by in adventure racing.

David walks us through the Lost Dot race portfolio, the legacy of TCR founder Mike Hall, the nuanced world of self-supported racing ethics, and the organization's newest initiative — a race designed specifically for women, trans, and non-binary riders that drew more than a hundred applicants for its inaugural edition.

If you've ever wondered what racing looks like on two wheels across an entire continent, this episode is your answer.

Shownotes:

Lost Dot Racing - https://www.lostdot.cc/tcr

Lost Dot Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetranscontinental/

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Photographer Nic Wynia - https://www.storycityfilms.com/new-gallery-3

]]>What do adventure racing and ultra cycling have in common? More than you think.

This week on The Dark Zone, Brian sits down with David Ayre of Lost Dot — the organization behind some of the world's most demanding ultra cycling events. What starts as a conversation about bikes across continents quickly reveals something familiar: dot watching, control points, self-sufficiency, volunteers as the backbone of the race, and a community built on the same ethos we live by in adventure racing.

David walks us through the Lost Dot race portfolio, the legacy of TCR founder Mike Hall, the nuanced world of self-supported racing ethics, and the organization's newest initiative — a race designed specifically for women, trans, and non-binary riders that drew more than a hundred applicants for its inaugural edition.

If you've ever wondered what racing looks like on two wheels across an entire continent, this episode is your answer.

Shownotes:

Lost Dot Racing - https://www.lostdot.cc/tcr

Lost Dot Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetranscontinental/

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Photographer Nic Wynia - https://www.storycityfilms.com/new-gallery-3

]]>4e2ea9e7-6bea-4f5a-9a45-8b2c6caaeb92Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:30:00 -040001:00:18falsefull31681683TDZ 152 - Greg Callas: A California AR Gold Rush and Growing the Sport Out WestTDZ 152 - Greg Callas: A California AR Gold Rush and Growing the Sport Out WestAdventure racing has always depended on people who love the sport enough to build it. Greg Callas is one of those people.

Greg is the new president of Gold Rush Adventure Racing, a nonprofit based in the foothills of the Sierras with a two-decade history on the West Coast. He inherited a legacy, and a responsibility, from the founders who built it, and he's determined to carry both forward.

But this episode isn't just about race directing. It's about a guy who found adventure racing the way a lot of us did, by doing something that looked a lot like it before he even knew it existed, and then couldn't stop. From his first race at Mammoth, where his team basically set up a picnic at the transition area, to a strong finish at Raid the Rockies, to lantern rouge honors at Expedition Oregon two years running, and then greater success, Greg has learned the sport the hard way and applied every lesson.

In this conversation, we talk about what it takes to grow a community, what a Bay Area sea kayaking club taught him about onboarding new athletes, and why he turned a 24-hour race into a 12-hour race — and why that might have been the right call all along. We also get into the Gold Rush Adventure Challenge, coming September 19th to the Marin Headlands, with a paddle to Angel Island, views of the Golden Gate, and yes — a cannon.

The sport grows when people like Greg show up. This one's worth your time.

Shownotes:

Gold Rush Adventure Racing - https://www.goldrushadventureracing.com/

Greg Callas Website - https://www.outdoorgoyo.com/

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Photographer Nic Wynia - https://www.storycityfilms.com/new-gallery-3

]]>Adventure racing has always depended on people who love the sport enough to build it. Greg Callas is one of those people.

Greg is the new president of Gold Rush Adventure Racing, a nonprofit based in the foothills of the Sierras with a two-decade history on the West Coast. He inherited a legacy, and a responsibility, from the founders who built it, and he's determined to carry both forward.

But this episode isn't just about race directing. It's about a guy who found adventure racing the way a lot of us did, by doing something that looked a lot like it before he even knew it existed, and then couldn't stop. From his first race at Mammoth, where his team basically set up a picnic at the transition area, to a strong finish at Raid the Rockies, to lantern rouge honors at Expedition Oregon two years running, and then greater success, Greg has learned the sport the hard way and applied every lesson.

In this conversation, we talk about what it takes to grow a community, what a Bay Area sea kayaking club taught him about onboarding new athletes, and why he turned a 24-hour race into a 12-hour race — and why that might have been the right call all along. We also get into the Gold Rush Adventure Challenge, coming September 19th to the Marin Headlands, with a paddle to Angel Island, views of the Golden Gate, and yes — a cannon.

The sport grows when people like Greg show up. This one's worth your time.

Shownotes:

Gold Rush Adventure Racing - https://www.goldrushadventureracing.com/

Greg Callas Website - https://www.outdoorgoyo.com/

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Photographer Nic Wynia - https://www.storycityfilms.com/new-gallery-3

]]>dda60146-3ddd-42c9-92cb-0ec6a5134195Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:30:00 -040001:06:34falsefull31671673TDZ 151 - Kate and Cliff White: Building an AR Strong Machine in New EnglandTDZ 151 - Kate and Cliff White: Building an AR Strong Machine in New EnglandKate and Cliff White of Strong Machine Adventure Racing have been a fixture in the adventure racing community for over a decade — first as racers stumbling toward the back of the pack at a winter race in Wisconsin, and eventually as two respected race directors on the East Coast. The path between those two points is anything but straight.

In this episode, we trace that journey: how a family machinery business became a team name, how a land trust in Maine became their first race venue, and how the simple act of showing up in a state with almost no races led them to build the ones they wanted to exist. Along the way, they've developed the Strong Machine Development Squad — a structured mentorship program designed to solve what Cliff identifies as the sport's most stubborn barrier to entry: people who want to race but can't find anyone to race with.

We also talk about the big races. Cliff on going unofficial in South Africa after a teammate's injury on day one, and still grinding through nine more days. Kate on a moment in Spain when she asked her teammates to leave her at a river crossing — and what it meant to come out the other side of that.

And we talk honestly about the sport's ceiling. Adventure racing will never be mainstream. Kate and Cliff have made their peace with that. What they haven't made peace with is the wide audience of endurance athletes who have yet to dip their toes into the AR water. Bringing them into the sport is the work they're still doing.

Shownotes:

https://www.mainesummerar.com/

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>Kate and Cliff White of Strong Machine Adventure Racing have been a fixture in the adventure racing community for over a decade — first as racers stumbling toward the back of the pack at a winter race in Wisconsin, and eventually as two respected race directors on the East Coast. The path between those two points is anything but straight.

In this episode, we trace that journey: how a family machinery business became a team name, how a land trust in Maine became their first race venue, and how the simple act of showing up in a state with almost no races led them to build the ones they wanted to exist. Along the way, they've developed the Strong Machine Development Squad — a structured mentorship program designed to solve what Cliff identifies as the sport's most stubborn barrier to entry: people who want to race but can't find anyone to race with.

We also talk about the big races. Cliff on going unofficial in South Africa after a teammate's injury on day one, and still grinding through nine more days. Kate on a moment in Spain when she asked her teammates to leave her at a river crossing — and what it meant to come out the other side of that.

And we talk honestly about the sport's ceiling. Adventure racing will never be mainstream. Kate and Cliff have made their peace with that. What they haven't made peace with is the wide audience of endurance athletes who have yet to dip their toes into the AR water. Bringing them into the sport is the work they're still doing.

Shownotes:

https://www.mainesummerar.com/

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>e47fc5f4-8eee-418e-b6aa-324a718ceedbMon, 09 Mar 2026 04:30:00 -040057:45falsefull31661663Episode 150 - Dan Brannen: Endurance Legend and The Best First Teammate A Guy Could Ask ForEpisode 150 - Dan Brannen: Endurance Legend and The Best First Teammate A Guy Could Ask ForEpisode 150 of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast honors a milestone with someone who embodies the long arc of endurance sport — Dan Brannen.

Dan was my first adventure racing teammate back in 2011, when I was just breaking into the sport. But long before that, he had already built a remarkable career across decades of endurance.

A winner of the legendary JFK 50 Mile, former American record holder in the 48-hour run, multi-day competitor, and inductee into the American Ultra Running Hall of Fame, Dan’s legacy extends far beyond his race results. He played a pivotal role in organizing and legitimizing ultra running at both the national and international levels, helping establish championship pathways and governance structures that still shape the sport today.

In this conversation, we explore:

  1. How influential coaches shaped his early running career
  2. The explosion of the American running boom in the 1970s
  3. Multi-day racing on indoor tracks and the psychology of going long
  4. Why adventure racing in his 50s opened up a new dimension of challenge
  5. What separates strong teammates from fragile ones
  6. The concept of “discomfort management” — and why endurance success isn’t about absorbing pain, but navigating it intelligently

At 72, Dan continues to race, design courses, and shape the adventure racing community through events like the Fool’s Rogaine. His story is one of patience, persistence, humility, and quiet leadership.

Episode 150 is both personal and historical — a tribute to a first teammate and to a man who has helped build multiple sports from the inside out.

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>Episode 150 of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast honors a milestone with someone who embodies the long arc of endurance sport — Dan Brannen.

Dan was my first adventure racing teammate back in 2011, when I was just breaking into the sport. But long before that, he had already built a remarkable career across decades of endurance.

A winner of the legendary JFK 50 Mile, former American record holder in the 48-hour run, multi-day competitor, and inductee into the American Ultra Running Hall of Fame, Dan’s legacy extends far beyond his race results. He played a pivotal role in organizing and legitimizing ultra running at both the national and international levels, helping establish championship pathways and governance structures that still shape the sport today.

In this conversation, we explore:

  1. How influential coaches shaped his early running career
  2. The explosion of the American running boom in the 1970s
  3. Multi-day racing on indoor tracks and the psychology of going long
  4. Why adventure racing in his 50s opened up a new dimension of challenge
  5. What separates strong teammates from fragile ones
  6. The concept of “discomfort management” — and why endurance success isn’t about absorbing pain, but navigating it intelligently

At 72, Dan continues to race, design courses, and shape the adventure racing community through events like the Fool’s Rogaine. His story is one of patience, persistence, humility, and quiet leadership.

Episode 150 is both personal and historical — a tribute to a first teammate and to a man who has helped build multiple sports from the inside out.

Sponsor Links:

Adventure Addicts Racing's Brake The Habit AR - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/copy-of-brake-the-habit-1

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>7916f3e4-d9aa-404d-bd94-7feaa7c511a6Sun, 22 Feb 2026 17:10:00 -040001:05:16falsefull31651653TDZ & The 2026 Katie Cookie Ride to benefit St. Jude Children’s HospitalTDZ & The 2026 Katie Cookie Ride to benefit St. Jude Children’s HospitalFor almost 150 episodes, The Dark Zone has been free — stories of grit, uncertainty, partnership, and the long road through the unknown.

Now we’re turning those miles into something bigger.

From March 19–22, 2026, Bob Mina and Brian Gatens of TDZ will attempt to ride 400 miles from West Chester, Pennsylvania to The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. No guarantees. No shortcuts. Just four days and a whole lot of pedaling.

We’re calling it Katie’s Cookie Ride.

For years, Bob has baked cookies for his daughter Katie. This time, he’s baking a batch and carrying them 400 miles south — turning a simple family tradition into a fundraiser for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

At St. Jude, families never receive a bill for treatment. Every dollar raised goes directly to their lifesaving mission. Bob and Brian are covering the full cost of the ride themselves.

If The Dark Zone has ever kept you company on a long run, a long drive, or a long trainer session — this is a chance to pay it forward.

Live tracking for the ride is being generously provided by Mark Harris of Enabled Tracking, and we’ll be updating along the way.

Donation Link Here

]]>For almost 150 episodes, The Dark Zone has been free — stories of grit, uncertainty, partnership, and the long road through the unknown.

Now we’re turning those miles into something bigger.

From March 19–22, 2026, Bob Mina and Brian Gatens of TDZ will attempt to ride 400 miles from West Chester, Pennsylvania to The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. No guarantees. No shortcuts. Just four days and a whole lot of pedaling.

We’re calling it Katie’s Cookie Ride.

For years, Bob has baked cookies for his daughter Katie. This time, he’s baking a batch and carrying them 400 miles south — turning a simple family tradition into a fundraiser for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

At St. Jude, families never receive a bill for treatment. Every dollar raised goes directly to their lifesaving mission. Bob and Brian are covering the full cost of the ride themselves.

If The Dark Zone has ever kept you company on a long run, a long drive, or a long trainer session — this is a chance to pay it forward.

Live tracking for the ride is being generously provided by Mark Harris of Enabled Tracking, and we’ll be updating along the way.

Donation Link Here

]]>1030101b-f8a3-4d9d-8c5f-b4dfd2fbdcd2Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:30:00 -040003:13falsefull31641643Episode 149.5 - Crafting Adventure @ Mechukha — India’s ARWS ExpeditionEpisode 149.5 - Crafting Adventure @ Mechukha — India’s ARWS ExpeditionIn this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we sit down with the team behind a new and exciting expedition-length race — Ajita Madan and Sayeesha Kirani, founders of NthAdventure, alongside Heidi Muller and Stephan Muller, veteran adventure race directors. Together they unpack the story, strategy, and heart behind Adventure @ Mechukha, India’s first Adventure Racing World Series Qualifier.

Recorded against a backdrop of jaw-dropping landscapes and months of race build-up, our conversation explores what it takes to bring a world-class 450 km expedition to life in one of the most remote corners of Arunachal Pradesh. The team shares the logistics and cultural collaborations that define the race — from engaging local communities and navigating rugged borderland terrain to designing a course that tests the mettle of any expedition-caliber team.

Ajita and Sayeesha reflect on their decade-long journey growing adventure racing in India — from regional events to hosting international qualifiers — while Heidi and Stephan offer global perspective on why Mechukha is a pivotal new chapter for international adventure racing. Listeners gain insight into the philosophy of expedition race design, the importance of place and people in endurance sport, and what this race means for future athletes eager to chart their own path to the Adventure Racing World Championship.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventure racer or new to the sport’s expansive world, this episode is a deep dive into the passion, planning, and community that fuel adventure racing at its highest level — from the Himalayan borderlands to the global stage.

Shownotes:

Nth Adventure Site - https://www.nthadventure.com/adventureatmechukha

ARWS Site - https://arworldseries.com/races/424

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>In this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we sit down with the team behind a new and exciting expedition-length race — Ajita Madan and Sayeesha Kirani, founders of NthAdventure, alongside Heidi Muller and Stephan Muller, veteran adventure race directors. Together they unpack the story, strategy, and heart behind Adventure @ Mechukha, India’s first Adventure Racing World Series Qualifier.

Recorded against a backdrop of jaw-dropping landscapes and months of race build-up, our conversation explores what it takes to bring a world-class 450 km expedition to life in one of the most remote corners of Arunachal Pradesh. The team shares the logistics and cultural collaborations that define the race — from engaging local communities and navigating rugged borderland terrain to designing a course that tests the mettle of any expedition-caliber team.

Ajita and Sayeesha reflect on their decade-long journey growing adventure racing in India — from regional events to hosting international qualifiers — while Heidi and Stephan offer global perspective on why Mechukha is a pivotal new chapter for international adventure racing. Listeners gain insight into the philosophy of expedition race design, the importance of place and people in endurance sport, and what this race means for future athletes eager to chart their own path to the Adventure Racing World Championship.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventure racer or new to the sport’s expansive world, this episode is a deep dive into the passion, planning, and community that fuel adventure racing at its highest level — from the Himalayan borderlands to the global stage.

Shownotes:

Nth Adventure Site - https://www.nthadventure.com/adventureatmechukha

ARWS Site - https://arworldseries.com/races/424

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>dd9d39eb-3271-4103-a714-debaee6bfa2dSun, 08 Feb 2026 14:50:00 -040058:16falsefull31631633Episode 149 - When It Clicked: The Wonky Donkeys and The Legend Adventure RaceEpisode 149 - When It Clicked: The Wonky Donkeys and The Legend Adventure RaceYou’re listening to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, where we try to understand how adventure races really play out—over long distances, under fatigue, and within the relationships that make or break a team.

Today’s episode is a conversation with Emily Panietz and Becca Lunnon, racing as The Wonky Donkeys, about their strong showing at The Legend Adventure Race in Tasmania.

That result didn’t come out of nowhere. In earlier races, Emily and Becca struggled at times with communication and teamwork—misaligned expectations, moments of frustration, and the normal growing pains that come with learning how to race together. Those experiences didn’t end in easy results, but they did give them a clearer sense of what needed to change.

At The Legend, that work showed. Over the course of a long, technical race, they communicated more clearly, managed decisions together, and stayed connected when things got difficult. Rather than trying to force the race, they settled into a rhythm that allowed them to move steadily and efficiently through the course.

In this episode, we talk about that progression—what didn’t work early on, how they adjusted, and why The Legend felt like a genuinely strong race for them as teammates. It’s a conversation about learning, adapting, and how growth over time can turn into a result that feels earned.

Shownotes:

The Legend - https://www.legendexpd.com.au/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>You’re listening to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, where we try to understand how adventure races really play out—over long distances, under fatigue, and within the relationships that make or break a team.

Today’s episode is a conversation with Emily Panietz and Becca Lunnon, racing as The Wonky Donkeys, about their strong showing at The Legend Adventure Race in Tasmania.

That result didn’t come out of nowhere. In earlier races, Emily and Becca struggled at times with communication and teamwork—misaligned expectations, moments of frustration, and the normal growing pains that come with learning how to race together. Those experiences didn’t end in easy results, but they did give them a clearer sense of what needed to change.

At The Legend, that work showed. Over the course of a long, technical race, they communicated more clearly, managed decisions together, and stayed connected when things got difficult. Rather than trying to force the race, they settled into a rhythm that allowed them to move steadily and efficiently through the course.

In this episode, we talk about that progression—what didn’t work early on, how they adjusted, and why The Legend felt like a genuinely strong race for them as teammates. It’s a conversation about learning, adapting, and how growth over time can turn into a result that feels earned.

Shownotes:

The Legend - https://www.legendexpd.com.au/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>795c5209-0aa6-48a8-b419-0c1744381cd3Mon, 29 Dec 2025 11:40:00 -040001:04:26falsefull31621623Episode 148 - Slade Combs: Fear, Performance, and Adventure RacingEpisode 148 - Slade Combs: Fear, Performance, and Adventure RacingIn this episode of The Dark Zone, we sit down with Slade Combs, a performance coach who helps people understand, confront, and work through fear — not by eliminating it, but by learning how to carry it well. Whether you’re standing on a start line, staring down a scary race section, preparing for a big presentation, or simply trying to perform when the stakes feel high, fear shows up. The question isn’t if — it’s how.

Slade brings a calm, practical, and deeply human approach to performance. We talk about why fear feels so powerful, how it is rooted in our life experience, and what actually helps when confidence wavers and doubt creeps in. This isn’t about hype or shortcuts. It’s about awareness, practice, and building trust in yourself when conditions aren’t perfect.

Adventure racing lives in the margins — fatigue, uncertainty, imperfect information. So does life. This conversation bridges both worlds, offering insight for adventure racers, leaders, creatives, and anyone who wants to show up more fully when it matters most.

Shownotes:

https://www.sladecombs.com/

https://ardarkzone.com/2025/04/04/episode-121-dave-jackson-of-cavesim-what-caving-can-teach-adventure-racers-about-fear-focus-and-teamwork/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>In this episode of The Dark Zone, we sit down with Slade Combs, a performance coach who helps people understand, confront, and work through fear — not by eliminating it, but by learning how to carry it well. Whether you’re standing on a start line, staring down a scary race section, preparing for a big presentation, or simply trying to perform when the stakes feel high, fear shows up. The question isn’t if — it’s how.

Slade brings a calm, practical, and deeply human approach to performance. We talk about why fear feels so powerful, how it is rooted in our life experience, and what actually helps when confidence wavers and doubt creeps in. This isn’t about hype or shortcuts. It’s about awareness, practice, and building trust in yourself when conditions aren’t perfect.

Adventure racing lives in the margins — fatigue, uncertainty, imperfect information. So does life. This conversation bridges both worlds, offering insight for adventure racers, leaders, creatives, and anyone who wants to show up more fully when it matters most.

Shownotes:

https://www.sladecombs.com/

https://ardarkzone.com/2025/04/04/episode-121-dave-jackson-of-cavesim-what-caving-can-teach-adventure-racers-about-fear-focus-and-teamwork/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>2354e00c-aa1d-49e7-9a9b-627f2622f04aTue, 23 Dec 2025 10:25:00 -040001:00:48falsefull31611613Episode 147 - Where the Mountains Meet the Sea: ARWC Corsica 2026 Registration OpenEpisode 147 - Where the Mountains Meet the Sea: ARWC Corsica 2026 Registration OpenIn Episode 147, we step onto one of the most storied and demanding landscapes in European adventure racing.

Flavie Bahuaud of Raid In France, joins TDZ to pull back the curtain on the 2026 Adventure Racing World Championship, coming to Corsica in September 2026. This isn’t just another host venue—it’s an island defined by extremes: jagged mountains rising straight from the sea, historic trails, technical navigation, and terrain that demands respect from even the most experienced teams on the planet.

Flavie shares the vision behind bringing the World Championship to Corsica, how Raid In France approaches course design at the highest level of the sport, and what teams should expect—physically, technically, and mentally—when they arrive. We talk about Corsica’s unique geography, the origins of Raid In France, and why this race will reward preparation, adaptability, and patience just as much as speed.

If you’re a team dreaming of a World Championship start line, a fan tracking the future of the sport, or a racer who wants a true challenge —this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

The road to Corsica has begun.

Shownotes:

https://www.arwc2026.com/

https://www.arworldseries.com/races/Corsica-is-magic-ARWC2026

https://www.raidinfrance.com/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>In Episode 147, we step onto one of the most storied and demanding landscapes in European adventure racing.

Flavie Bahuaud of Raid In France, joins TDZ to pull back the curtain on the 2026 Adventure Racing World Championship, coming to Corsica in September 2026. This isn’t just another host venue—it’s an island defined by extremes: jagged mountains rising straight from the sea, historic trails, technical navigation, and terrain that demands respect from even the most experienced teams on the planet.

Flavie shares the vision behind bringing the World Championship to Corsica, how Raid In France approaches course design at the highest level of the sport, and what teams should expect—physically, technically, and mentally—when they arrive. We talk about Corsica’s unique geography, the origins of Raid In France, and why this race will reward preparation, adaptability, and patience just as much as speed.

If you’re a team dreaming of a World Championship start line, a fan tracking the future of the sport, or a racer who wants a true challenge —this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

The road to Corsica has begun.

Shownotes:

https://www.arwc2026.com/

https://www.arworldseries.com/races/Corsica-is-magic-ARWC2026

https://www.raidinfrance.com/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>ff17869e-ec6d-4c45-91a5-10d638a59616Sun, 14 Dec 2025 11:15:00 -040047:17falsefull31601603Episode 146 - Into the Spine of Mexico — La Ruta Madre with Joel, Una and ZachEpisode 146 - Into the Spine of Mexico — La Ruta Madre with Joel, Una and ZachOn this extended episode of The Dark Zone, we head into the rugged heart of Monterrey, Mexico, home of La Ruta Madre—a race that blends blistering heat, steep technical terrain, cultural immersion, and the kind of navigational complexity that defines true expedition racing.

Our guests—Una, Joel, and Zach—join TDZ to unpack the story of their team’s experience on this iconic course. But rather than spotlighting individual accomplishments, this episode explores how the team operated as a single unit: how decisions were made under fatigue, how pacing and strategy evolved across the Sierra Madre, and how communication and trust became just as critical as solid navigation or a strong climb.

Together, they paint a vivid picture of what it means for a team to hold form across long hours, hard miles, and constantly shifting conditions. From their brief pre-race meeting to the moments deep in the mountains when teamwork mattered most, listeners get a rare inside look at how a successful team thinks, reacts, and stays connected.

La Ruta Madre isn’t just a race—it’s a test of cohesion, resilience, and collective problem-solving. Settle in for an immersive conversation that brings you right into the heartbeat of the team as they took on one of the world's most striking and demanding adventure races.

Shownotes:

La Ruta Madre ARWS Page - https://arworldseries.com/races/319

La Ruta Madre Event Website - https://larutamadre.mx/

Bend Racing's LRM Report - https://www.bendracing.com/post/racing-la-ruta-madre-a-journey-of-teamwork-terrain-and-top-gear

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>On this extended episode of The Dark Zone, we head into the rugged heart of Monterrey, Mexico, home of La Ruta Madre—a race that blends blistering heat, steep technical terrain, cultural immersion, and the kind of navigational complexity that defines true expedition racing.

Our guests—Una, Joel, and Zach—join TDZ to unpack the story of their team’s experience on this iconic course. But rather than spotlighting individual accomplishments, this episode explores how the team operated as a single unit: how decisions were made under fatigue, how pacing and strategy evolved across the Sierra Madre, and how communication and trust became just as critical as solid navigation or a strong climb.

Together, they paint a vivid picture of what it means for a team to hold form across long hours, hard miles, and constantly shifting conditions. From their brief pre-race meeting to the moments deep in the mountains when teamwork mattered most, listeners get a rare inside look at how a successful team thinks, reacts, and stays connected.

La Ruta Madre isn’t just a race—it’s a test of cohesion, resilience, and collective problem-solving. Settle in for an immersive conversation that brings you right into the heartbeat of the team as they took on one of the world's most striking and demanding adventure races.

Shownotes:

La Ruta Madre ARWS Page - https://arworldseries.com/races/319

La Ruta Madre Event Website - https://larutamadre.mx/

Bend Racing's LRM Report - https://www.bendracing.com/post/racing-la-ruta-madre-a-journey-of-teamwork-terrain-and-top-gear

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>2f6be0a4-5d4e-41d1-8592-bf67f1195682Sun, 07 Dec 2025 15:30:00 -040001:56:11falsefull31591593Episode 145 – The Long Way North: Tyler Stancill’s Eastern Divide RideEpisode 145 – The Long Way North: Tyler Stancill’s Eastern Divide RideIn this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we shift gears—literally and figuratively—to explore a different kind of endurance adventure. Our guest is Tyler Stancill, a passionate bikepacker who pedaled more than 6,000 miles from Key West, Florida to Newfoundland, Canada along the newly established Eastern Divide Trail.

His journey captures the same spirit that fuels every adventure racer and explorer: resilience, curiosity, and a deep love of the road ahead. From the logistics of a months-long solo ride to the mental highs and lows that come with such an undertaking, Tyler’s story will strike a chord with anyone who’s ever wondered just how far they can go.

Join us as we talk about bikes, backroads, and the beautiful intersection between endurance and exploration. Whether you race, ride, or simply dream of big journeys, this episode reminds us that adventure comes in many forms.

Shownotes:

The Eastern Divide Trail - https://bikepacking.com/eastern-divide-trail/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>In this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we shift gears—literally and figuratively—to explore a different kind of endurance adventure. Our guest is Tyler Stancill, a passionate bikepacker who pedaled more than 6,000 miles from Key West, Florida to Newfoundland, Canada along the newly established Eastern Divide Trail.

His journey captures the same spirit that fuels every adventure racer and explorer: resilience, curiosity, and a deep love of the road ahead. From the logistics of a months-long solo ride to the mental highs and lows that come with such an undertaking, Tyler’s story will strike a chord with anyone who’s ever wondered just how far they can go.

Join us as we talk about bikes, backroads, and the beautiful intersection between endurance and exploration. Whether you race, ride, or simply dream of big journeys, this episode reminds us that adventure comes in many forms.

Shownotes:

The Eastern Divide Trail - https://bikepacking.com/eastern-divide-trail/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Adventureware Shop - https://adventureware.shop/

]]>b3163888-5de0-430b-b652-485ed0a403b3Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -040001:02:27falsefull31581583Episode 144 – John Karlsson - SAFAT Team Captain, 3X World Champion, and Aspiring GolferEpisode 144 – John Karlsson - SAFAT Team Captain, 3X World Champion, and Aspiring GolferIn this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, host Brian Gatens welcomes John Karlsson, captain of Team SAFAT, the reigning Adventure Racing World Champions. Known for their precision, discipline, and calm under pressure, SAFAT has come to define the standard of excellence in expedition racing.

John shares his introduction to the sport, his growth as a racer, and the lessons learned on the journey from first-time competitor to world champion. He offers an inside look at the team’s mindset, their approach to success, and the chemistry that fueled their dominance. But with whispers that SAFAT’s future may be uncertain, this conversation carries an undercurrent of reflection—about legacy, leadership, and what comes next.

As always, you keep racing—and we’ll keep talking.

Shownotes:

Team SAFAT - https://www.facebook.com/swedisharmedforcesadventureteam/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>In this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, host Brian Gatens welcomes John Karlsson, captain of Team SAFAT, the reigning Adventure Racing World Champions. Known for their precision, discipline, and calm under pressure, SAFAT has come to define the standard of excellence in expedition racing.

John shares his introduction to the sport, his growth as a racer, and the lessons learned on the journey from first-time competitor to world champion. He offers an inside look at the team’s mindset, their approach to success, and the chemistry that fueled their dominance. But with whispers that SAFAT’s future may be uncertain, this conversation carries an undercurrent of reflection—about legacy, leadership, and what comes next.

As always, you keep racing—and we’ll keep talking.

Shownotes:

Team SAFAT - https://www.facebook.com/swedisharmedforcesadventureteam/

Sponsor Links:

Nuataaq Carabiner Hydration Bottle - www.nuataaq.com

Shenandoah Epic Adventure Race - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>e41d978c-54f2-4ee4-b83c-8b8ea0b519d3Mon, 27 Oct 2025 05:30:00 -040053:52falsefull31571573A 5-Minute TDZ Update (And An Invitation for World Champs Voice Memos!)A 5-Minute TDZ Update (And An Invitation for World Champs Voice Memos!)Happy October, TDZ Nation

Here is a quick 5-minute update following the Adventure Racing World Series AR World Championship in Penticton, British Columbia. TDZ was onsite to help with media, and the race was quite the ride.

Per the episode, everyone involved in the race - racers, supporters, volunteers, family, media, EVERYONE - is encouraged to record and send a 90-second (or so) voice message/memo to brian@ardarkzone.com or send via WhatsApp if you have that info. Include your name, your role, and your team (if applicable) and share your thoughts on the race or a great story. All submissions will be used to create a special episode of TDZ.

You keep talking, and we'll keep editing!

]]>Happy October, TDZ Nation

Here is a quick 5-minute update following the Adventure Racing World Series AR World Championship in Penticton, British Columbia. TDZ was onsite to help with media, and the race was quite the ride.

Per the episode, everyone involved in the race - racers, supporters, volunteers, family, media, EVERYONE - is encouraged to record and send a 90-second (or so) voice message/memo to brian@ardarkzone.com or send via WhatsApp if you have that info. Include your name, your role, and your team (if applicable) and share your thoughts on the race or a great story. All submissions will be used to create a special episode of TDZ.

You keep talking, and we'll keep editing!

]]>9f4da1ae-f200-4698-a8fc-a14cbfc11914Mon, 13 Oct 2025 15:16:00 -040004:38falsefull31561563Episode 144: A Podcast Crossover - Course Reveal: Subaru Canada Adventure Racing World Championship 2025Episode 144: A Podcast Crossover - Course Reveal: Subaru Canada Adventure Racing World Championship 2025Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. From time to time, we like to support our companion podcast, The Course Reveal, by crossposting special episodes.

———————————————————–

Welcome to a special episode of The Course Reveal Podcast, a companion show to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Today, we turn our attention to the 2025 Subaru Canada Adventure Racing World Championship, where the best teams on the planet will converge in Penticton, British Columbia, to chase the ultimate prize in the sport.

This year’s race features an epic 799-kilometer course, with teams racing for up to 9 days across glaciers, mountain ranges, whitewater rivers, and backcountry roads while visiting remote villages along the way. Expect rugged mountains, complex navigation, and the dramatic landscapes of British Columbia as athletes push through a relentless test of strategy, endurance, and teamwork.

We’re joined by three key voices behind the event: Lyndie Hill of Hoodoo Adventures, Race Director John Ford, and Course Designer Alex Man. They go deep into the course, the challenges faced by the racers, and their pride and joy in bringing the ARWC to British Columbia. Together, they’ll guide us through the vision for this year’s championship, the details of the course design, and why British Columbia is the perfect stage for the world’s toughest teams.

If you like what you hear, please subscribe, like, and share. TCR is designed to give at-home fans and dotwatchers another opportunity to connect with and enjoy the world of adventure racing.

You Keep Watching, and We’ll Keep Talking.

Shownotes:

Race Website - https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/

Tracking Website - https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/livetrackmedia

]]>Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. From time to time, we like to support our companion podcast, The Course Reveal, by crossposting special episodes.

———————————————————–

Welcome to a special episode of The Course Reveal Podcast, a companion show to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Today, we turn our attention to the 2025 Subaru Canada Adventure Racing World Championship, where the best teams on the planet will converge in Penticton, British Columbia, to chase the ultimate prize in the sport.

This year’s race features an epic 799-kilometer course, with teams racing for up to 9 days across glaciers, mountain ranges, whitewater rivers, and backcountry roads while visiting remote villages along the way. Expect rugged mountains, complex navigation, and the dramatic landscapes of British Columbia as athletes push through a relentless test of strategy, endurance, and teamwork.

We’re joined by three key voices behind the event: Lyndie Hill of Hoodoo Adventures, Race Director John Ford, and Course Designer Alex Man. They go deep into the course, the challenges faced by the racers, and their pride and joy in bringing the ARWC to British Columbia. Together, they’ll guide us through the vision for this year’s championship, the details of the course design, and why British Columbia is the perfect stage for the world’s toughest teams.

If you like what you hear, please subscribe, like, and share. TCR is designed to give at-home fans and dotwatchers another opportunity to connect with and enjoy the world of adventure racing.

You Keep Watching, and We’ll Keep Talking.

Shownotes:

Race Website - https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/

Tracking Website - https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/livetrackmedia

]]>f17e0f6d-59e4-4769-b398-a85e5ac4c14dTue, 23 Sep 2025 14:14:00 -040001:08:48falsefull31551553Episode 143: A Podcast Crossover - Course Reveal: USARA National Championship 2025Episode 143: A Podcast Crossover - Course Reveal: USARA National Championship 2025Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. From time to time, we like to support our companion podcast, The Course Reveal, by crossposting special episodes.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to a special episode of The Course Reveal Podcast. Today, we turn our attention to the 2025 United States Adventure Racing National Championship, where the best teams in the country will gather in Northwest Arkansas to battle for the top of the podium.

This year’s Nationals features a demanding 230-kilometer course, with 78 teams racing against the clock for up to 30 hours across trekking, mountain biking, and paddling stages. Expect rugged terrain, steep climbs, and the wild beauty of the Ozarks as racers push themselves through a nonstop test of endurance and teamwork.

We’re joined by two key voices at the heart of the event: Stephanie Ross, Nationals Coordinator, and Michael Garrison, Executive Director of USARA. Together, they’ll guide us through the vision behind this year’s championship, the details of the course design, and what makes Northwest Arkansas such a powerful stage for the sport.

If you like what you hear, please subscribe, like, and share. TCR is designed to offer the at-home fan/dotwatcher another opportunity to enjoy and engage with their favorite races.

You Keep Watching, and We'll Keep Talking.

Shownotes:

Race Website - https://www.usara.com/2025-national-championships

Tracking Website - https://live.enabledtracking.com/usara2025/

]]>Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. From time to time, we like to support our companion podcast, The Course Reveal, by crossposting special episodes.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to a special episode of The Course Reveal Podcast. Today, we turn our attention to the 2025 United States Adventure Racing National Championship, where the best teams in the country will gather in Northwest Arkansas to battle for the top of the podium.

This year’s Nationals features a demanding 230-kilometer course, with 78 teams racing against the clock for up to 30 hours across trekking, mountain biking, and paddling stages. Expect rugged terrain, steep climbs, and the wild beauty of the Ozarks as racers push themselves through a nonstop test of endurance and teamwork.

We’re joined by two key voices at the heart of the event: Stephanie Ross, Nationals Coordinator, and Michael Garrison, Executive Director of USARA. Together, they’ll guide us through the vision behind this year’s championship, the details of the course design, and what makes Northwest Arkansas such a powerful stage for the sport.

If you like what you hear, please subscribe, like, and share. TCR is designed to offer the at-home fan/dotwatcher another opportunity to enjoy and engage with their favorite races.

You Keep Watching, and We'll Keep Talking.

Shownotes:

Race Website - https://www.usara.com/2025-national-championships

Tracking Website - https://live.enabledtracking.com/usara2025/

]]>1bd0d3e8-255f-43b4-93a1-e4a5aa6980faFri, 12 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -040047:12falsefull31541543Episode 142 - A Course Reveal Podcast Crossover: Endurance Quest Saimaa ARWS European ChampionshipEpisode 142 - A Course Reveal Podcast Crossover: Endurance Quest Saimaa ARWS European ChampionshipWelcome to a special edition of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Our sister show, The Course Reveal Podcast, is your spot for adventure racing course breakdowns and interviews with race directors, but for championship races we like to crosspost those episodes to what we call The Big Feed. See below for this show's highlighted race.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to the Course Reveal Podcast.

Join Course Director Lauri Hollo as he breaks down each stage of Endurance Quest Saimaa.

As the Adventure Racing European Championship, this race will bring 60 teams from 12 countries to the Savonlinna region of Finland, and winners will earn a coveted spot at the ARWS World Championships. The course includes more than 70 km of trekking, 125 km of mountain biking, 44 km of paddling, and 2 km of swimming – plus climbing and rope challenges. Competitors have up to 30 hours to complete the race course.

This demanding course will be the highlight of the European adventure racing season.

If you like what you hear, please subscribe, like, and share. TCR is designed to offer the at-home fan/dotwatcher another opportunity to enjoy and engage with their favorite races.

You Keep Watching, and We'll Keep Talking.

Shownotes:

Race Website - https://www.endurancequest.org/

Tracking Link - https://www.tulospalvelu.fi/gps/2025eq/

]]>Welcome to a special edition of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Our sister show, The Course Reveal Podcast, is your spot for adventure racing course breakdowns and interviews with race directors, but for championship races we like to crosspost those episodes to what we call The Big Feed. See below for this show's highlighted race.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to the Course Reveal Podcast.

Join Course Director Lauri Hollo as he breaks down each stage of Endurance Quest Saimaa.

As the Adventure Racing European Championship, this race will bring 60 teams from 12 countries to the Savonlinna region of Finland, and winners will earn a coveted spot at the ARWS World Championships. The course includes more than 70 km of trekking, 125 km of mountain biking, 44 km of paddling, and 2 km of swimming – plus climbing and rope challenges. Competitors have up to 30 hours to complete the race course.

This demanding course will be the highlight of the European adventure racing season.

If you like what you hear, please subscribe, like, and share. TCR is designed to offer the at-home fan/dotwatcher another opportunity to enjoy and engage with their favorite races.

You Keep Watching, and We'll Keep Talking.

Shownotes:

Race Website - https://www.endurancequest.org/

Tracking Link - https://www.tulospalvelu.fi/gps/2025eq/

]]>304520a7-d7ec-4082-89db-6d85a40254efSat, 30 Aug 2025 00:30:00 -040018:01falsefull31531533Episode 141 – Olga Huber: Prolific Solo Racer, Strong Teammate, and a Student of AREpisode 141 – Olga Huber: Prolific Solo Racer, Strong Teammate, and a Student of ARIn this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we welcome Olga Huber of Team Fragile Flowers. A well-known racer, Olga has taken on a growing number of events, both with teammates and solo. She loves AR, and she enjoys learning from all of her experiences. Wise, direct, and thoughtful, Olga shares so much with TDZ. When she speaks, school is in session. Enjoy!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

]]>In this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we welcome Olga Huber of Team Fragile Flowers. A well-known racer, Olga has taken on a growing number of events, both with teammates and solo. She loves AR, and she enjoys learning from all of her experiences. Wise, direct, and thoughtful, Olga shares so much with TDZ. When she speaks, school is in session. Enjoy!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

]]>cbed5231-f39a-47f4-80cc-750687a46cb4Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -040001:14:06falsefull31521523Episode 140 – ITERA Flash Episode with RD Paul McGrealEpisode 140 – ITERA Flash Episode with RD Paul McGrealThe mountains, midges, and lochs of Scotland are putting racers to the test at ITERA and ITERA-Lite. In this Flash Episode, Race Director Paul McGreal joins The Dark Zone to share not just the leaderboard highlights, but the many stories from the trail — teams helping each other through brutal weather, challenging stages, in-race competitions, and gritty comebacks after early setbacks. From the sharp end of the race to the determined mid and back of the pack teams, this update captures the iconic ITERA.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

ARWS Page: https://arworldseries.com/races/itera-2025-scotland

Tracking Page ITERA - https://live.durtyevents.com/itera2025/

Tracking Page ITERA-Lite -https://live.durtyevents.com/iteralite2025/

Course Reveal Part 1 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-course-reveal-podcast/id1830676195?i=1000721371672

Course Reveal Part 2 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-course-reveal-podcast/id1830676195?i=1000721654274

]]>The mountains, midges, and lochs of Scotland are putting racers to the test at ITERA and ITERA-Lite. In this Flash Episode, Race Director Paul McGreal joins The Dark Zone to share not just the leaderboard highlights, but the many stories from the trail — teams helping each other through brutal weather, challenging stages, in-race competitions, and gritty comebacks after early setbacks. From the sharp end of the race to the determined mid and back of the pack teams, this update captures the iconic ITERA.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

ARWS Page: https://arworldseries.com/races/itera-2025-scotland

Tracking Page ITERA - https://live.durtyevents.com/itera2025/

Tracking Page ITERA-Lite -https://live.durtyevents.com/iteralite2025/

Course Reveal Part 1 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-course-reveal-podcast/id1830676195?i=1000721371672

Course Reveal Part 2 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-course-reveal-podcast/id1830676195?i=1000721654274

]]>102a1e72-b895-408f-9cbf-22fcfb160dfdTue, 12 Aug 2025 20:20:00 -040026:04falsefull31511513Episode 139 – Lauri Hollo of Finland's Endurance Quest Saimaa/European Championship 2025Episode 139 – Lauri Hollo of Finland's Endurance Quest Saimaa/European Championship 2025Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Today’s episode takes us north to the wild, water-rich terrain of Finland, where host Brian Gatens is joined by Lauri Hollo —longtime racer, passionate advocate for the sport, and Technical Director for the 2025 Endurance Quest Saimaa, the European Adventure Racing Championship.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Lauri reflects on his path into adventure racing, what kept him coming back for more, and how the Finnish AR community has grown over time. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned expedition racer, this episode is a great look at how personal passion evolves into professional leadership in the AR world.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

All Race Media: https://www.adventureracinginsider.com/tld2025

ARWS Page: https://arworldseries.com/races/endurance-quest-saimaa-europe-championship-2025-finland

Race Website: https://www.endurancequest.org/raceinfo

Tracking Page: https://live.enabledtracking.com/tld2025/

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Today’s episode takes us north to the wild, water-rich terrain of Finland, where host Brian Gatens is joined by Lauri Hollo —longtime racer, passionate advocate for the sport, and Technical Director for the 2025 Endurance Quest Saimaa, the European Adventure Racing Championship.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Lauri reflects on his path into adventure racing, what kept him coming back for more, and how the Finnish AR community has grown over time. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned expedition racer, this episode is a great look at how personal passion evolves into professional leadership in the AR world.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

All Race Media: https://www.adventureracinginsider.com/tld2025

ARWS Page: https://arworldseries.com/races/endurance-quest-saimaa-europe-championship-2025-finland

Race Website: https://www.endurancequest.org/raceinfo

Tracking Page: https://live.enabledtracking.com/tld2025/

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>b7784fbf-178d-4248-95f7-de06b56bef76Fri, 01 Aug 2025 08:15:00 -040001:03:22falsefull31501503Episode 138 – Course Reveal: Wilderness Traverse/ARWS North American ChampionshipEpisode 138 – Course Reveal: Wilderness Traverse/ARWS North American ChampionshipToday’s episode is a special one — it’s a course reveal for the 2025 Wilderness Traverse, the iconic Canadian adventure race and this year's ARWS North American championship. This event has long been a staple in the North American adventure racing calendar, known for its challenging terrain, demanding navigation, and classic Canadian spirit.

Joining the show are Event Director Bob Miller and Race Coverage Lead Wayne Leek. Together, they pull back the curtain on this year’s course, offering a preview of what lies ahead — strategic route choices, paddle lengths and portages, and the sweet spot between challenge and fun. Whether you’re a veteran racer or a first-time TDZ listener, this conversation serves as a solid introduction to the course, the terrain, and what is in store for the racers.

Let’s get into it.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Main Page: https://www.wildernesstraverse.com/

Live Coverage page: https://www.wildernesstraverse.com/2025wtcoverage

Direct tracking page: https://live.enabledtracking.com/traverse2025/

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>Today’s episode is a special one — it’s a course reveal for the 2025 Wilderness Traverse, the iconic Canadian adventure race and this year's ARWS North American championship. This event has long been a staple in the North American adventure racing calendar, known for its challenging terrain, demanding navigation, and classic Canadian spirit.

Joining the show are Event Director Bob Miller and Race Coverage Lead Wayne Leek. Together, they pull back the curtain on this year’s course, offering a preview of what lies ahead — strategic route choices, paddle lengths and portages, and the sweet spot between challenge and fun. Whether you’re a veteran racer or a first-time TDZ listener, this conversation serves as a solid introduction to the course, the terrain, and what is in store for the racers.

Let’s get into it.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Main Page: https://www.wildernesstraverse.com/

Live Coverage page: https://www.wildernesstraverse.com/2025wtcoverage

Direct tracking page: https://live.enabledtracking.com/traverse2025/

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>628e232a-a5e4-4b2d-b555-e843c7fde388Sat, 26 Jul 2025 07:15:00 -040031:18falsefull31491493Episode 137 – Ashley and Greg of Team NYARA/Trek or TreatEpisode 137 – Ashley and Greg of Team NYARA/Trek or TreatIn this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we welcome Ashley Cheney and Greg Schmidt of Team NYARA/Trek or Treat, a pairing whose journey through adventure racing has been marked by determination, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping each other. Their story isn’t just about racing—it’s about the intentional work of building a strong partnership, pushing personal limits, and finding meaning in the challenges of adventure racing.

Their conversation is a thoughtful exploration of what it means to build trust on the course, navigate setbacks with resilience, and grow through shared experience. Whether you’re an experienced racer or just adventure racing-curious, you’ll find inspiration in how these two approach the sport—and each other—with honesty, optimism, and a healthy dose of fun.

Trek or Treat, indeed.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

NYARA - www.nyara.org

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>In this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we welcome Ashley Cheney and Greg Schmidt of Team NYARA/Trek or Treat, a pairing whose journey through adventure racing has been marked by determination, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping each other. Their story isn’t just about racing—it’s about the intentional work of building a strong partnership, pushing personal limits, and finding meaning in the challenges of adventure racing.

Their conversation is a thoughtful exploration of what it means to build trust on the course, navigate setbacks with resilience, and grow through shared experience. Whether you’re an experienced racer or just adventure racing-curious, you’ll find inspiration in how these two approach the sport—and each other—with honesty, optimism, and a healthy dose of fun.

Trek or Treat, indeed.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

NYARA - www.nyara.org

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>b1203763-9a66-4b3d-b8be-0ba9d328d9ccTue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -040001:00:56falsefull31481483Episode 136 – Expedition Africa: A New Era BeginsEpisode 136 – Expedition Africa: A New Era BeginsIn this episode, we speak with the new leadership team behind Expedition Africa as they carry forward the legacy of one of the world’s most iconic expedition races.

With roots in Heidi and Stephan Muller’s multi-year stewardship, Expedition Africa is turning the page while honoring its past. The new team brings decades of racing experience and a deep love for the sport to their new roles, and they’re already hard at work preparing for the March 2026 race in South Africa’s breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains.

Expect 500 kilometers of true expedition racing—technical trekking, rugged biking, paddle sections, ropework, and soul-stirring scenery. In this conversation, the new team shares their vision, the updates racers can expect, and how they plan to keep the spirit of Expedition Africa burning bright.

Pack your bags and cue the intro music—this is The Dark Zone.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Expedition Africa - https://expafrica.net/

Video - https://youtu.be/YYK_6OmtKYw?si=7gDULTZPJYSMFhO-

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>In this episode, we speak with the new leadership team behind Expedition Africa as they carry forward the legacy of one of the world’s most iconic expedition races.

With roots in Heidi and Stephan Muller’s multi-year stewardship, Expedition Africa is turning the page while honoring its past. The new team brings decades of racing experience and a deep love for the sport to their new roles, and they’re already hard at work preparing for the March 2026 race in South Africa’s breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains.

Expect 500 kilometers of true expedition racing—technical trekking, rugged biking, paddle sections, ropework, and soul-stirring scenery. In this conversation, the new team shares their vision, the updates racers can expect, and how they plan to keep the spirit of Expedition Africa burning bright.

Pack your bags and cue the intro music—this is The Dark Zone.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Expedition Africa - https://expafrica.net/

Video - https://youtu.be/YYK_6OmtKYw?si=7gDULTZPJYSMFhO-

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>2fcd8cbf-b50b-4a29-8b8a-4f21370c50ceMon, 07 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -040001:05:55falsefull31471473Episode 135 – Writer Jim Clash: Reporting from the Edge of AdventureEpisode 135 – Writer Jim Clash: Reporting from the Edge of AdventureAdventure reporter Jim Clash of Forbes Magazine joins The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation that explores the intersection of storytelling and high-stakes adventure. With a passport stamped from the South Pole to spaceflight training grounds, Jim has chronicled the lives and pursuits of the world’s boldest adventurers—and taken on quite a few daring feats himself. In this episode, he shares how curiosity, preparation, and a nose for a good story have led him to interview legends like Buzz Aldrin, Chuck Yeager, and Sir Edmund Hillary, and what it means to carry their stories forward.

We dig into Jim’s adventures, his take on the psychology of risk, and how adventure reporting has evolved in the age of social media and instant access. Whether you're a racer, a reader, or just someone hungry for great stories, Jim’s reflections will inspire you to chase your dreams, and maybe even pick up a pen along the way.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Jim Clash - https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimclash/

Risky Business Podcast - https://www.clashandtoro.com/

The Explorer's Club - https://www.explorers.org/

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>Adventure reporter Jim Clash of Forbes Magazine joins The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation that explores the intersection of storytelling and high-stakes adventure. With a passport stamped from the South Pole to spaceflight training grounds, Jim has chronicled the lives and pursuits of the world’s boldest adventurers—and taken on quite a few daring feats himself. In this episode, he shares how curiosity, preparation, and a nose for a good story have led him to interview legends like Buzz Aldrin, Chuck Yeager, and Sir Edmund Hillary, and what it means to carry their stories forward.

We dig into Jim’s adventures, his take on the psychology of risk, and how adventure reporting has evolved in the age of social media and instant access. Whether you're a racer, a reader, or just someone hungry for great stories, Jim’s reflections will inspire you to chase your dreams, and maybe even pick up a pen along the way.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Jim Clash - https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimclash/

Risky Business Podcast - https://www.clashandtoro.com/

The Explorer's Club - https://www.explorers.org/

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>7a93ca2f-c351-49ef-87ff-0ac402653d64Wed, 02 Jul 2025 04:30:00 -040058:51falsefull31461463Episode 134 – Zoe and Mary’s Endless Mountains Adventure Race Send-OffEpisode 134 – Zoe and Mary’s Endless Mountains Adventure Race Send-OffIn this freewheeling and reflective wrap-up to the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race, TDZ hands the mic to Zoe Freedland and Mary Foster for an end-of-race coda soon after the final team crosses the line. As racers catch their breath and stories settle into memory, dedicated volunteers Zoe and Mary capture the emotion, exhaustion, and triumph that define The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. It’s a fitting close to an unforgettable week in Vermont.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

What the Heck is Adventure Racing W/Alyssa Godesky - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-heck-is-adventure-racing-with-alyssa-godesky/id1265466545?i=1000713772295

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

]]>In this freewheeling and reflective wrap-up to the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race, TDZ hands the mic to Zoe Freedland and Mary Foster for an end-of-race coda soon after the final team crosses the line. As racers catch their breath and stories settle into memory, dedicated volunteers Zoe and Mary capture the emotion, exhaustion, and triumph that define The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. It’s a fitting close to an unforgettable week in Vermont.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

What the Heck is Adventure Racing W/Alyssa Godesky - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-heck-is-adventure-racing-with-alyssa-godesky/id1265466545?i=1000713772295

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

]]>a877d665-1282-4dc6-9d26-c996143f0fbcSat, 28 Jun 2025 13:30:00 -040044:15falsefull31451453Episode 133 – Flash Podcast: 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race - Day 5 (We Think!)Episode 133 – Flash Podcast: 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race - Day 5 (We Think!)Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, and this special Flash Episode from the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race.

Abby Perkiss joins us with a timely update from deep inside the race experience. From the pointy end of the field, the surging pack, weather and course challenges, and how all the teams are managing this handful of a race, Abby gives us the lay of the land as the event unfolds in real time.

Alongside her is EMAR racer and USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison, fresh off the course and full of hard-earned insight. He shares what it’s like out there—navigation challenges, team dynamics, and the mental game required to push through a tough course.

It’s a quick check-in, but one packed with perspective and experience. Let’s get into it.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

What the Heck is Adventure Racing W/Alyssa Godesky - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-heck-is-adventure-racing-with-alyssa-godesky/id1265466545?i=1000713772295

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

]]>Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, and this special Flash Episode from the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race.

Abby Perkiss joins us with a timely update from deep inside the race experience. From the pointy end of the field, the surging pack, weather and course challenges, and how all the teams are managing this handful of a race, Abby gives us the lay of the land as the event unfolds in real time.

Alongside her is EMAR racer and USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison, fresh off the course and full of hard-earned insight. He shares what it’s like out there—navigation challenges, team dynamics, and the mental game required to push through a tough course.

It’s a quick check-in, but one packed with perspective and experience. Let’s get into it.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

What the Heck is Adventure Racing W/Alyssa Godesky - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-heck-is-adventure-racing-with-alyssa-godesky/id1265466545?i=1000713772295

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

]]>c15b5747-6ffc-4f48-a855-01c18c9a3aaaWed, 25 Jun 2025 18:30:00 -040038:30falsefull31441443Episode 132 – The Voices of the Racers from the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure RaceEpisode 132 – The Voices of the Racers from the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure RaceWelcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

In this special Voices of the Racers episode, we bring you directly into Transition Area 1, where we spent an entire day capturing the thoughts, experiences, and enthusiasm of every team during their 5-minute media timeout. What follows is unfiltered, on-the-ground audio: the sounds of rain, barking dogs, cheering children, and the ever-present wind. It’s real, raw, and as close as you’ll get to the race without a map and compass. Audio quality may vary, and if your voice, or someone you love, didn’t make the final cut, please accept our apologies. This is podcast recording at its most challenging.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

]]>Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

In this special Voices of the Racers episode, we bring you directly into Transition Area 1, where we spent an entire day capturing the thoughts, experiences, and enthusiasm of every team during their 5-minute media timeout. What follows is unfiltered, on-the-ground audio: the sounds of rain, barking dogs, cheering children, and the ever-present wind. It’s real, raw, and as close as you’ll get to the race without a map and compass. Audio quality may vary, and if your voice, or someone you love, didn’t make the final cut, please accept our apologies. This is podcast recording at its most challenging.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

]]>54549f27-afd4-4c83-8c03-264501553295Tue, 24 Jun 2025 06:30:00 -040050:01falsefull31431433Episode 131 – Course Reveal: Endless Mountains Adventure Race Les Verd Monts 2025Episode 131 – Course Reveal: Endless Mountains Adventure Race Les Verd Monts 2025Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Today’s episode marks a special moment on the AR calendar: the official course reveal for the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race presented by Rootstock Racing.

For the first time, Endless Mountains heads north to Vermont, where over seven days, teams will face a demanding and beautifully crafted expedition-length course through the region’s rugged forests, bike trails, and beautiful waterways. Over the next hour, we’ll walk through the full course—section by section—with race directors Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland. No vague hints. No redacted routes. This is the complete, unfiltered breakdown designed for the AR fans, racers, and dotwatchers.

Let’s dive into the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Today’s episode marks a special moment on the AR calendar: the official course reveal for the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race presented by Rootstock Racing.

For the first time, Endless Mountains heads north to Vermont, where over seven days, teams will face a demanding and beautifully crafted expedition-length course through the region’s rugged forests, bike trails, and beautiful waterways. Over the next hour, we’ll walk through the full course—section by section—with race directors Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland. No vague hints. No redacted routes. This is the complete, unfiltered breakdown designed for the AR fans, racers, and dotwatchers.

Let’s dive into the 2025 Endless Mountains Adventure Race.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com

EMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/

Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracing

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>a0a444fe-1068-4a9c-9ced-58ea81642475Sat, 21 Jun 2025 05:30:00 -040048:49falsefull31421423Episode 130 – Ultra-Distance Bikepacking: Endurance, Adventure, and Racing with Meaghan HackinenEpisode 130 – Ultra-Distance Bikepacking: Endurance, Adventure, and Racing with Meaghan HackinenOn this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we shift gears—literally—with ultra-distance cyclist and adventure writer Meaghan Hackinen. From solo rides across continents to podium finishes at grueling endurance events, Meaghan brings a unique perspective on resilience, mindset, and the beauty of long days in the saddle. She shares stories from her global rides, lessons learned while pushing physical and mental limits, and what it means to find strong efforts in the midst of fatigue. Whether you're navigating a remote bike leg in a multi-day race or dreaming of your next expedition, Meaghan’s insights are both inspiring and deeply grounded. Plus, we talk writing, racing, recovery, and the underrated magic of instant potatoes.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Meaghan Hackinen - https://meaghanhackinen.com/book/

The Buckshot - https://www.bcepic1000.com/buckshot

Trans Am Bike Race - https://transambikerace.com/

North Cape 4000 - https://northcape4000.com/

North Cape-Tarifa - https://www.northcape-tarifa.com/

Ozark Gravel Doom - https://www.ozarkgravelcyclists.com/doom

Tour Divide - https://tourdivide.org/about_the_route

Atlas Mountain Race - https://bikepacking.com/tracker/atlas-mountain-race-2025/

Silk Road Mountain Race - https://www.themountainraces.cc/silk-road-mountain-race

Hellenic Mountain Race - https://www.themountainraces.cc/hellenic-mountain-race

Caves and Coves TT - https://www.bikepackadventures.ca/bikepacking-routes/caves-and-coves-itt

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>On this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, we shift gears—literally—with ultra-distance cyclist and adventure writer Meaghan Hackinen. From solo rides across continents to podium finishes at grueling endurance events, Meaghan brings a unique perspective on resilience, mindset, and the beauty of long days in the saddle. She shares stories from her global rides, lessons learned while pushing physical and mental limits, and what it means to find strong efforts in the midst of fatigue. Whether you're navigating a remote bike leg in a multi-day race or dreaming of your next expedition, Meaghan’s insights are both inspiring and deeply grounded. Plus, we talk writing, racing, recovery, and the underrated magic of instant potatoes.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

Meaghan Hackinen - https://meaghanhackinen.com/book/

The Buckshot - https://www.bcepic1000.com/buckshot

Trans Am Bike Race - https://transambikerace.com/

North Cape 4000 - https://northcape4000.com/

North Cape-Tarifa - https://www.northcape-tarifa.com/

Ozark Gravel Doom - https://www.ozarkgravelcyclists.com/doom

Tour Divide - https://tourdivide.org/about_the_route

Atlas Mountain Race - https://bikepacking.com/tracker/atlas-mountain-race-2025/

Silk Road Mountain Race - https://www.themountainraces.cc/silk-road-mountain-race

Hellenic Mountain Race - https://www.themountainraces.cc/hellenic-mountain-race

Caves and Coves TT - https://www.bikepackadventures.ca/bikepacking-routes/caves-and-coves-itt

Sponsor Links:

American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

]]>711ca7a2-baa3-4061-b6d9-57d0ce4af7a9Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -040001:05:23falsefull31411413Crosspost Alert! – Episode 12: Leveling Up to Expedition Racing with Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone PodcastCrosspost Alert! – Episode 12: Leveling Up to Expedition Racing with Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone PodcastTDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #12. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 12 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

On this episode of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast, host Brent Freedland is joined by Brian Gatens, host of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, for a deep dive into the world of expedition-length racing. From choosing your first race to travel logistics, international race prep, and lessons learned the hard way, Brian shares what it takes to level up. Along the way, he busts a few myths and offers practical advice drawn from years of on-course experience, as well as some terrible decisions. Whether you're planning your first expedition race or chasing a podium, this episode delivers the real-world insights you need to go farther, smarter, and stronger.

Send ideas for future episodes to info@usara.com

Featured USARA Races:

Maine Summer Adventure Race - https://www.mainesummerar.com/

Never Summer Adventure Race - https://rockymountainadventureseries.com/never-summer-24hr/

Pocket Gopher AR Series - https://howlingadventurer.com/pocket-gopher-series/

Shownotes:

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>TDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #12. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 12 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

On this episode of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast, host Brent Freedland is joined by Brian Gatens, host of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, for a deep dive into the world of expedition-length racing. From choosing your first race to travel logistics, international race prep, and lessons learned the hard way, Brian shares what it takes to level up. Along the way, he busts a few myths and offers practical advice drawn from years of on-course experience, as well as some terrible decisions. Whether you're planning your first expedition race or chasing a podium, this episode delivers the real-world insights you need to go farther, smarter, and stronger.

Send ideas for future episodes to info@usara.com

Featured USARA Races:

Maine Summer Adventure Race - https://www.mainesummerar.com/

Never Summer Adventure Race - https://rockymountainadventureseries.com/never-summer-24hr/

Pocket Gopher AR Series - https://howlingadventurer.com/pocket-gopher-series/

Shownotes:

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>1d97cedd-3a8b-4aec-878c-06e034dc904dTue, 17 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -040001:14:08falsefull31401403Episode 129 – Endurance with a Mission: Adventure Racers and The Korima Health InitiativeEpisode 129 – Endurance with a Mission: Adventure Racers and The Korima Health InitiativeOn this episode, TDZ steps off the course and into the heart of the Copper Canyons with the Korima Health Initiative. Founded with a mission to bring essential healthcare and education to the Indigenous Rarámuri people of northern Mexico, Korima is powered in part by a unique crew of volunteers—many of whom are also adventure racers. Just as they navigate wild terrain and unpredictable conditions in their athletic pursuits, these racers bring their endurance, teamwork, and grit to the challenges of remote medical work.

The connection is clear: in both arenas, success demands resilience, teamwork, and a deep commitment to service. We talk with those who’ve swapped trekking poles for stethoscopes and headlamps for tongue depressors. Tune in as The Dark Zone explores how the spirit of adventure racing fuels a mission of healing and hope.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://korimahealthinitiative.org/

]]>On this episode, TDZ steps off the course and into the heart of the Copper Canyons with the Korima Health Initiative. Founded with a mission to bring essential healthcare and education to the Indigenous Rarámuri people of northern Mexico, Korima is powered in part by a unique crew of volunteers—many of whom are also adventure racers. Just as they navigate wild terrain and unpredictable conditions in their athletic pursuits, these racers bring their endurance, teamwork, and grit to the challenges of remote medical work.

The connection is clear: in both arenas, success demands resilience, teamwork, and a deep commitment to service. We talk with those who’ve swapped trekking poles for stethoscopes and headlamps for tongue depressors. Tune in as The Dark Zone explores how the spirit of adventure racing fuels a mission of healing and hope.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://korimahealthinitiative.org/

]]>5f5073b9-90e8-425c-87a3-f62f8b74614aTue, 10 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -040058:23falsefull31391393Crosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 11: The Mailbag Episode - You Asked And We Answered With Mari Chandler and Andy BaconCrosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 11: The Mailbag Episode - You Asked And We Answered With Mari Chandler and Andy BaconTDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #11. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 11 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

On this mailbag episode of USARA’s The Checkpoint Podcast, host Brent Freedland is joined by adventure racing veterans Mari Chandler and Andy Bacon for a lively and wide-ranging conversation. Drawing from listener questions, the trio dives into gear preferences, sleep strategy, and team communication among other topics. With decades of experience between them, Mari and Andy offer equal parts wisdom, humor, and hard-earned insight. Whether you're new to AR or a seasoned racer, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for a fun and informative journey through the questions that keep adventure racers up at night.

Send us your questions for future episodes at info@usara.com

Guest Link:

Andy Bacon's EX2 Adventures - https://ex2adventures.com/

Featured USARA Races:

Stubborn Mule Adventure Race - https://180adventure.com/sm-race-info

Rainier Raid Adventure Race - https://rainierraid.com/

Shownotes:

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>TDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #11. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 11 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

On this mailbag episode of USARA’s The Checkpoint Podcast, host Brent Freedland is joined by adventure racing veterans Mari Chandler and Andy Bacon for a lively and wide-ranging conversation. Drawing from listener questions, the trio dives into gear preferences, sleep strategy, and team communication among other topics. With decades of experience between them, Mari and Andy offer equal parts wisdom, humor, and hard-earned insight. Whether you're new to AR or a seasoned racer, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for a fun and informative journey through the questions that keep adventure racers up at night.

Send us your questions for future episodes at info@usara.com

Guest Link:

Andy Bacon's EX2 Adventures - https://ex2adventures.com/

Featured USARA Races:

Stubborn Mule Adventure Race - https://180adventure.com/sm-race-info

Rainier Raid Adventure Race - https://rainierraid.com/

Shownotes:

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>96529b81-153f-4155-b330-df8b122b970eFri, 06 Jun 2025 18:07:00 -040001:25:27falsefull31381383Episode 128 – From Racer to RD: Frank Johnson’s Wild Driftless AR JourneyEpisode 128 – From Racer to RD: Frank Johnson’s Wild Driftless AR JourneyAdventure racing thrives on passion, and nowhere is that clearer than in the story of Frank Johnson and The Wild Driftless Adventure Race. A longtime racer turned first-time Race Director, Frank is stepping up to give something back to the sport he loves. On this episode of The Dark Zone, we talk about what it means to start something new, why smaller races matter, and how community fuels everything. Big thanks to Frank for joining us, and don’t forget to check out the race website in the show notes.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/IA/StrawberryPoint/WildDriftless

Freedom by Sebastian Junger - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55711668-freedom

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Adventure racing thrives on passion, and nowhere is that clearer than in the story of Frank Johnson and The Wild Driftless Adventure Race. A longtime racer turned first-time Race Director, Frank is stepping up to give something back to the sport he loves. On this episode of The Dark Zone, we talk about what it means to start something new, why smaller races matter, and how community fuels everything. Big thanks to Frank for joining us, and don’t forget to check out the race website in the show notes.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/IA/StrawberryPoint/WildDriftless

Freedom by Sebastian Junger - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55711668-freedom

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>1c81c5ef-87e1-4d27-b095-39d28a0bc089Thu, 29 May 2025 04:00:00 -040057:40falsefull31371373Episode 127 - When PR Meets AR: A Unique Crossover Between College Coursework and Adventure RacingEpisode 127 - When PR Meets AR: A Unique Crossover Between College Coursework and Adventure RacingThis episode of The Dark Zone explores a creative partnership between a college classroom and the course. Students from Washington and Lee University’s Leading Public Relations Campaigns class teamed up with Adventure Addicts Racing to support the Adrenaline Rush Adventure Race. As part of their coursework, students developed and implemented real-world media strategies to promote the event, offering a fresh perspective on how adventure racing is experienced, marketed, and understood.

Throughout the project, the students gained knowledge of communication, storytelling, and the unique culture of AR. But they didn’t stop there, students also came away with practical recommendations for race directors looking to grow the sport and better engage new audiences. It’s a compelling conversation about where adventure racing is today and where it could go tomorrow.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/IA/StrawberryPoint/WildDriftless

]]>This episode of The Dark Zone explores a creative partnership between a college classroom and the course. Students from Washington and Lee University’s Leading Public Relations Campaigns class teamed up with Adventure Addicts Racing to support the Adrenaline Rush Adventure Race. As part of their coursework, students developed and implemented real-world media strategies to promote the event, offering a fresh perspective on how adventure racing is experienced, marketed, and understood.

Throughout the project, the students gained knowledge of communication, storytelling, and the unique culture of AR. But they didn’t stop there, students also came away with practical recommendations for race directors looking to grow the sport and better engage new audiences. It’s a compelling conversation about where adventure racing is today and where it could go tomorrow.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/IA/StrawberryPoint/WildDriftless

]]>af2a8726-967d-4b06-87d4-d73218bca211Thu, 22 May 2025 04:30:00 -040051:19falsefull31361363Episode 126 - Fast Times At AR High: Welcome to Full Steam Ahead Adventure RacingEpisode 126 - Fast Times At AR High: Welcome to Full Steam Ahead Adventure RacingA big thank-you to teacher and adventure racer Jeremy Johnson for connecting The Dark Zone with the student racers of Full Steam Ahead Adventure Racing. Based at Brunswick High School in Maryland, FSA is a thriving, student-led club that's bringing the next generation into the world of AR. In this episode, three young racers share how they found the sport, what it’s taught them, and how the lessons of adventure racing are shaping their lives beyond the course. If you're looking for a shot of optimism about the future, this is the episode to hear. If you want to help, FSA please see the donation link below.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

To Donate: https://frederickcounty.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/55586/82/False/True

https://www.usara.com/news/the-ar-kids-are-alright

https://bhsgazette.org/9827/spotlights/full-steam-ahead-run-for-fun/

https://bhsgazette.org/11643/features/adventure-racing-at-brunswick-high/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/IA/StrawberryPoint/WildDriftless

]]>A big thank-you to teacher and adventure racer Jeremy Johnson for connecting The Dark Zone with the student racers of Full Steam Ahead Adventure Racing. Based at Brunswick High School in Maryland, FSA is a thriving, student-led club that's bringing the next generation into the world of AR. In this episode, three young racers share how they found the sport, what it’s taught them, and how the lessons of adventure racing are shaping their lives beyond the course. If you're looking for a shot of optimism about the future, this is the episode to hear. If you want to help, FSA please see the donation link below.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

To Donate: https://frederickcounty.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/55586/82/False/True

https://www.usara.com/news/the-ar-kids-are-alright

https://bhsgazette.org/9827/spotlights/full-steam-ahead-run-for-fun/

https://bhsgazette.org/11643/features/adventure-racing-at-brunswick-high/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/IA/StrawberryPoint/WildDriftless

]]>96eaeea5-8899-4d6e-a754-82f48b8df2f7Thu, 15 May 2025 10:49:00 -040049:03falsefull31351353Episode 125 - FLASH EPISODE: Team Bones Fresh Off The Course at Raid BimbacheEpisode 125 - FLASH EPISODE: Team Bones Fresh Off The Course at Raid BimbacheTeam Bones joins TDZ fresh off their 115-hour epic at Raid Bimbache in Morocco. From battling illness and chasing down runaway maps to staying strong and supportive as a team, they trekked (and biked... and paddled...) through it all together. Sleep-deprived and still processing their experience, they still made time to bring us their story. Thank you to Roy, Jen, James, and Jesse for sharing their story with us.

As with all Flash Episodes, what you hear is what you get as we record and release with no edits to save time. There’s a bit of fuzz here and there due to shaky WiFi, but nothing that takes away from the power of their experience.

Episode 125 feels like a milestone, and we’re grateful to Team Bones for helping us mark it in style.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>Team Bones joins TDZ fresh off their 115-hour epic at Raid Bimbache in Morocco. From battling illness and chasing down runaway maps to staying strong and supportive as a team, they trekked (and biked... and paddled...) through it all together. Sleep-deprived and still processing their experience, they still made time to bring us their story. Thank you to Roy, Jen, James, and Jesse for sharing their story with us.

As with all Flash Episodes, what you hear is what you get as we record and release with no edits to save time. There’s a bit of fuzz here and there due to shaky WiFi, but nothing that takes away from the power of their experience.

Episode 125 feels like a milestone, and we’re grateful to Team Bones for helping us mark it in style.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>14fa24fa-a2ac-4dab-97fe-326e11832c6eSun, 04 May 2025 15:30:00 -040001:11:10falsefull31341343Episode 124 - Expedition Canada On The Brain! Catching up with the ARWC Leadership TeamEpisode 124 - Expedition Canada On The Brain! Catching up with the ARWC Leadership TeamOh Canada!

The Dark Zone recently sat down with the leadership team behind the upcoming Adventure Racing World Championships to be held in Penticton, British Columbia to dig into the necessary training, team planning, travel logistics, and what racers can expect. They held their ground under our not-so-subtle questioning about the course, but we still managed to get our hands on some beta (Nav! Nav! Nav!). This is your sneak peek into the minds shaping the biggest race of the year. Thank you to Lyndie, John, Alex, and Kenton for spending some time with us.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-canada-canada

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blade9films/posts/?feedView=all

https://www.visitpenticton.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>Oh Canada!

The Dark Zone recently sat down with the leadership team behind the upcoming Adventure Racing World Championships to be held in Penticton, British Columbia to dig into the necessary training, team planning, travel logistics, and what racers can expect. They held their ground under our not-so-subtle questioning about the course, but we still managed to get our hands on some beta (Nav! Nav! Nav!). This is your sneak peek into the minds shaping the biggest race of the year. Thank you to Lyndie, John, Alex, and Kenton for spending some time with us.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-canada-canada

https://www.linkedin.com/company/blade9films/posts/?feedView=all

https://www.visitpenticton.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>fb5b6cea-3d79-46c7-ad36-ccf02555f885Thu, 01 May 2025 08:34:00 -040055:27falsefull31331333Episode 123: Navigating the Future of Adventure Racing: A Global Vision with IARAEpisode 123: Navigating the Future of Adventure Racing: A Global Vision with IARAIn this episode, we go international—literally—with Cormac and Lisa of the International Adventure Racing Association (IARA). As a worldwide organization, IARA is on a mission to unify, support, and elevate adventure racing on every continent. We talk about what it means to define standards of fairplay, safety, and sustainability in a sport that thrives on pushing limits and embracing the unknown. With a deep respect for racers, race directors, volunteers, and the land itself, IARA is working to shape a stronger, more inclusive future. From promoting ethical competition to building bridges with other organizations, IARA is setting the compass for where adventure racing is headed next. We dig into the core values that drive their work—teamwork, integrity, inclusion, and, of course, adventure. This episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to race globally. Join us as we explore the spirit of adventure racing through the lens of its most ardent advocates.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://internationaladventureracing.org/about/

https://www.facebook.com/internationaladventureracing/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>In this episode, we go international—literally—with Cormac and Lisa of the International Adventure Racing Association (IARA). As a worldwide organization, IARA is on a mission to unify, support, and elevate adventure racing on every continent. We talk about what it means to define standards of fairplay, safety, and sustainability in a sport that thrives on pushing limits and embracing the unknown. With a deep respect for racers, race directors, volunteers, and the land itself, IARA is working to shape a stronger, more inclusive future. From promoting ethical competition to building bridges with other organizations, IARA is setting the compass for where adventure racing is headed next. We dig into the core values that drive their work—teamwork, integrity, inclusion, and, of course, adventure. This episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to race globally. Join us as we explore the spirit of adventure racing through the lens of its most ardent advocates.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://internationaladventureracing.org/about/

https://www.facebook.com/internationaladventureracing/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>ea3b7afc-59de-4f61-aa59-30aae21e1ac2Thu, 24 Apr 2025 05:15:00 -040053:50falsefull31311313Episode 122: Into the Desert: Rootstock Racing Takes on Expedition Africa NamibiaEpisode 122: Into the Desert: Rootstock Racing Takes on Expedition Africa NamibiaRootstock Racing has never been one to shy away from a challenge. This time, their racing takes them deep into the arid beauty of southern Africa. In this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, Abby Perkiss, Brent Freedland, Matt Cymanski and Michael Garrison share their experience racing in Expedition Africa Namibia, a once-in-a-lifetime event set against the stark landscapes and sweeping deserts of Race Director Heidi Muller's homeland.

We talk sand dunes, strategy, carrying water, and the joy of expedition racing as the team recounts the highs, lows, and everything in between from their time in Namibia. What does it take to race across one of the world’s most iconic and unforgiving environments? How do you prepare, adapt, and endure when the terrain pushes back at every turn? What did Matt find so appealing about gas station sandwiches?

From Windhoek to the wild, this is a story of resilience, teamwork, and the challenge of international adventure racing.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

www.rootstockracing.com

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-africa-namibia-2024-namibia

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>Rootstock Racing has never been one to shy away from a challenge. This time, their racing takes them deep into the arid beauty of southern Africa. In this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast, Abby Perkiss, Brent Freedland, Matt Cymanski and Michael Garrison share their experience racing in Expedition Africa Namibia, a once-in-a-lifetime event set against the stark landscapes and sweeping deserts of Race Director Heidi Muller's homeland.

We talk sand dunes, strategy, carrying water, and the joy of expedition racing as the team recounts the highs, lows, and everything in between from their time in Namibia. What does it take to race across one of the world’s most iconic and unforgiving environments? How do you prepare, adapt, and endure when the terrain pushes back at every turn? What did Matt find so appealing about gas station sandwiches?

From Windhoek to the wild, this is a story of resilience, teamwork, and the challenge of international adventure racing.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

www.rootstockracing.com

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-africa-namibia-2024-namibia

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

https://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

]]>cfa6459d-b0f8-4276-bc5e-a85efef32e03Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:30:00 -040002:01:25falsefull31301303Episode 121: Dave Jackson of CaveSim – What Caving Can Teach Adventure Racers About Fear, Focus, and TeamworkEpisode 121: Dave Jackson of CaveSim – What Caving Can Teach Adventure Racers About Fear, Focus, and TeamworkWhat do caves and adventure racing have in common? More than you might think. Dave Jackson, founder of CaveSim and a highly experienced caver, joins us to share lessons learned in the dark, cramped passages of the underground—and how those lessons apply to racing, teamwork, and managing fear. His traveling cave simulator teaches thousands each year, and his wisdom offers practical tools for when you find yourself deep in the unknown, pushing forward as a team.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.cavesim.com/

https://caves.org/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>What do caves and adventure racing have in common? More than you might think. Dave Jackson, founder of CaveSim and a highly experienced caver, joins us to share lessons learned in the dark, cramped passages of the underground—and how those lessons apply to racing, teamwork, and managing fear. His traveling cave simulator teaches thousands each year, and his wisdom offers practical tools for when you find yourself deep in the unknown, pushing forward as a team.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://www.cavesim.com/

https://caves.org/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025

Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforher

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>94487acd-9bfb-4340-b15d-5a75bdf8653fFri, 04 Apr 2025 06:26:00 -040050:55falsefull31291293Crosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 10 - Leveling Up as a Racer and as a Team with Cliff White of Strong Machine Adventure RacingCrosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 10 - Leveling Up as a Racer and as a Team with Cliff White of Strong Machine Adventure RacingTDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #10. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 10 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent sits down with Cliff White of Strong Machine Adventure Racing to explore the personal and team growth that has shaped their success over the past decade. Strong Machine has earned impressive results at both the national and international levels, and Cliff offers valuable insight into the strategies and experiences that have driven that success. A big thank you to Cliff for taking the time to share his story and expertise with us.

Guest Link:

Strong Machine Adventure Racing - https://www.strongmachinear.com/

Featured USARA Races:

Tug Hill Extreme Adventure Race - https://tughilloutfitters.com/tug-hill-extreme-adventu

Teton Ogre Adventure Race - https://tetonogre.com/

Shownotes:

Emily Korsch's AR Blog - http://www.emilykorsch.com/p/about-me.html

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>TDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #10. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 10 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent sits down with Cliff White of Strong Machine Adventure Racing to explore the personal and team growth that has shaped their success over the past decade. Strong Machine has earned impressive results at both the national and international levels, and Cliff offers valuable insight into the strategies and experiences that have driven that success. A big thank you to Cliff for taking the time to share his story and expertise with us.

Guest Link:

Strong Machine Adventure Racing - https://www.strongmachinear.com/

Featured USARA Races:

Tug Hill Extreme Adventure Race - https://tughilloutfitters.com/tug-hill-extreme-adventu

Teton Ogre Adventure Race - https://tetonogre.com/

Shownotes:

Emily Korsch's AR Blog - http://www.emilykorsch.com/p/about-me.html

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>7fdb3943-e2f5-45bc-876a-8e7e9655512cThu, 27 Mar 2025 05:03:00 -040001:24:54falsefull31281283Episode 120: Robert Le Brun - RD for The Ratel: South Africa's Newest Honey Badger Of An Adventure RaceEpisode 120: Robert Le Brun - RD for The Ratel: South Africa's Newest Honey Badger Of An Adventure RaceTDZ is thrilled to welcome race director Robert Le Brun to the show to talk about The Ratel — South Africa's newest and most exciting adventure race! This epic 450 km challenge will unfold in the breathtaking Richtersveld, known as Africa’s “holy grail” of adventure.

At TDZ, we love shining a spotlight on new races, and The Ratel promises to deliver big on challenge, strategy, and adventure. Robert is not only leading the charge as an RD — he’s a fierce racer himself — and we can't wait to dive into what makes The Ratel such a standout event.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

The Ratel - https://arworldseries.com/races/die-ratel-expedition-2025-south-africa

The Dark Zone Episode 52 - David Webster of Team ACDC - https://ardarkzone.com/2022/11/25/dark-zone-52-david-webster-of-team-acdc-ar-the-biggest-first-race-leap-ever/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>TDZ is thrilled to welcome race director Robert Le Brun to the show to talk about The Ratel — South Africa's newest and most exciting adventure race! This epic 450 km challenge will unfold in the breathtaking Richtersveld, known as Africa’s “holy grail” of adventure.

At TDZ, we love shining a spotlight on new races, and The Ratel promises to deliver big on challenge, strategy, and adventure. Robert is not only leading the charge as an RD — he’s a fierce racer himself — and we can't wait to dive into what makes The Ratel such a standout event.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

The Ratel - https://arworldseries.com/races/die-ratel-expedition-2025-south-africa

The Dark Zone Episode 52 - David Webster of Team ACDC - https://ardarkzone.com/2022/11/25/dark-zone-52-david-webster-of-team-acdc-ar-the-biggest-first-race-leap-ever/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>e9556295-4c22-487d-b6a5-9e2a47b59578Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:30:00 -040056:19falsefull31271273Episode 119: Kim Beckinsale - Champion Adventure Racer, Referee and RD for the Amazons Australia Stage RaceEpisode 119: Kim Beckinsale - Champion Adventure Racer, Referee and RD for the Amazons Australia Stage RaceTDZ is pleased to welcome back Kim Beckinsale to discuss her experience as a racer, referee, and race director for the Amazons Australia Stage Race. Kim’s long history in multisport, combined with her perspective as both a champion racer and a race official, gives TDZ listeners a valuable look into the world of adventure racing. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

The Amazons Australia - https://outdoorsqueensland.com.au/whats-on/the-amazons-australia/

TDZ Episode 91 - Team Mountain Designs Wild Women - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dark-zone-an-adventure-racing-podcast/id1578529221?i=1000647735469

TDZ Episode 99 - Nathalie Long and Raid the Rockies Stage Race - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dark-zone-an-adventure-racing-podcast/id1578529221?i=1000662616424

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>TDZ is pleased to welcome back Kim Beckinsale to discuss her experience as a racer, referee, and race director for the Amazons Australia Stage Race. Kim’s long history in multisport, combined with her perspective as both a champion racer and a race official, gives TDZ listeners a valuable look into the world of adventure racing. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

The Amazons Australia - https://outdoorsqueensland.com.au/whats-on/the-amazons-australia/

TDZ Episode 91 - Team Mountain Designs Wild Women - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dark-zone-an-adventure-racing-podcast/id1578529221?i=1000647735469

TDZ Episode 99 - Nathalie Long and Raid the Rockies Stage Race - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dark-zone-an-adventure-racing-podcast/id1578529221?i=1000662616424

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>0033af97-a289-4284-bb0f-57153930b6ebMon, 10 Mar 2025 05:30:00 -040054:31falsefull31261263Episode 118: Harald Zundel - Adventure Racer, Ultrarunner, and Former Navy Seal: A Listener-Recommended Guest!Episode 118: Harald Zundel - Adventure Racer, Ultrarunner, and Former Navy Seal: A Listener-Recommended Guest!Thanks to a listener recommendation, TDZ is excited to welcome Adventure Racer, Ultrarunner, and Former Navy Seal Harald Zundel. With nearly 30 years of ultrarunning and adventure racing under his belt, Harald brings tons of stories, wisdom, and that signature adventure racer attitude. Oh, and if you're into jungle leg parasites, you’ve come to the right podcast!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

World Peace Games 1998 - https://gulfnews.com/today-history/today-in-history-march-191998--world-peace-games-open-in-dubai-1.2190231

WPG Information - https://www.alshindagah.com/march98/desert.htm

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>Thanks to a listener recommendation, TDZ is excited to welcome Adventure Racer, Ultrarunner, and Former Navy Seal Harald Zundel. With nearly 30 years of ultrarunning and adventure racing under his belt, Harald brings tons of stories, wisdom, and that signature adventure racer attitude. Oh, and if you're into jungle leg parasites, you’ve come to the right podcast!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

World Peace Games 1998 - https://gulfnews.com/today-history/today-in-history-march-191998--world-peace-games-open-in-dubai-1.2190231

WPG Information - https://www.alshindagah.com/march98/desert.htm

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>9b845df2-3ad3-4e97-8c2c-9195cfede4b1Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:30:00 -040001:08:41falsefull31251253Episode 117: The Upcoming Soar + Women Adventure Racing Retreat with Karyn DuLaney, Britt Mason, and Jen TillmanEpisode 117: The Upcoming Soar + Women Adventure Racing Retreat with Karyn DuLaney, Britt Mason, and Jen TillmanTDZ is happy to spotlight the upcoming SOAR Women + Adventure Racing Retreat coming this March 2025. Karyn DuLaney, Britt Mason, and Jen Tillman join the show to discuss SOAR (Stretching Ourselves in Adventures and Racing), the Women of AR Team, and the immersive retreat filled with workshops, clinics, and community, plus an orienteering meet to finish off the weekend. We also sneak in some discussion about the Women of AR's commanding performance at this year's USARA National Championship Race.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

Retreat Website - https://www.jentillhuman.com/soar?

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>TDZ is happy to spotlight the upcoming SOAR Women + Adventure Racing Retreat coming this March 2025. Karyn DuLaney, Britt Mason, and Jen Tillman join the show to discuss SOAR (Stretching Ourselves in Adventures and Racing), the Women of AR Team, and the immersive retreat filled with workshops, clinics, and community, plus an orienteering meet to finish off the weekend. We also sneak in some discussion about the Women of AR's commanding performance at this year's USARA National Championship Race.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

Retreat Website - https://www.jentillhuman.com/soar?

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>41123f28-1a36-472f-8533-8a93c849fec4Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:45:00 -040053:39falsefull31241243Episode 116: First Look At The 2025 USARA National Championship Race Coming to Bentonville, Arkansas This SeptemberEpisode 116: First Look At The 2025 USARA National Championship Race Coming to Bentonville, Arkansas This SeptemberThe calendar may say February, but on today's episode, it's September 2025, and the USARA National Championships is right around the corner. Thank you to USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison, Nationals Coordinator Stephanie Ross, and Ozark Foundation Director of Operations Brannon Pack for joining TDZ to offer an early peek into the 2025 USARA National Championships.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

USARA Nationals website - https://www.usara.com/2025-national-championships

Ozark Foundation - https://ozarkfoundation.org/

Visit Bentonville - https://www.visitbentonville.com/

Enabled Tracking - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Ted King and Bentonville - https://www.instagram.com/iamtedking/p/DBUpjhfuiu8/?img_index=1

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>The calendar may say February, but on today's episode, it's September 2025, and the USARA National Championships is right around the corner. Thank you to USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison, Nationals Coordinator Stephanie Ross, and Ozark Foundation Director of Operations Brannon Pack for joining TDZ to offer an early peek into the 2025 USARA National Championships.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

USARA Nationals website - https://www.usara.com/2025-national-championships

Ozark Foundation - https://ozarkfoundation.org/

Visit Bentonville - https://www.visitbentonville.com/

Enabled Tracking - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Ted King and Bentonville - https://www.instagram.com/iamtedking/p/DBUpjhfuiu8/?img_index=1

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

www.wildernesstraverse.com

]]>4c22eb83-188d-42f4-bdcf-0a971e60467eMon, 17 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040057:33falsefull31221223Episode 115: Barb Campbell - The Joyful Adventure Racer (Who Loves a Good Spreadsheet)Episode 115: Barb Campbell - The Joyful Adventure Racer (Who Loves a Good Spreadsheet)We don’t track humor-based metrics at The Dark Zone, but if we did, this episode would be tough to beat. Barb Campbell is a fixture in the Canadian adventure racing community, and we’re delighted to finally have her on the show. She’s been a longtime reach guest on our episode planning whiteboard, and it was well worth the wait. Enjoy the conversation!

Programming Note - The 2010 UTNE video referenced by Barb is linked below and, yeah, they were awfully tired.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

www.wildernesstraverse.com

Untamed New England 2010 (credit to Randy Ericksen) - https://vimeo.com/29901661

The Dirtbag Diaries - What is Hardcore? - https://dirtbagdiaries.com/hardcore/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://chimneysweepva.com/

]]>We don’t track humor-based metrics at The Dark Zone, but if we did, this episode would be tough to beat. Barb Campbell is a fixture in the Canadian adventure racing community, and we’re delighted to finally have her on the show. She’s been a longtime reach guest on our episode planning whiteboard, and it was well worth the wait. Enjoy the conversation!

Programming Note - The 2010 UTNE video referenced by Barb is linked below and, yeah, they were awfully tired.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

www.wildernesstraverse.com

Untamed New England 2010 (credit to Randy Ericksen) - https://vimeo.com/29901661

The Dirtbag Diaries - What is Hardcore? - https://dirtbagdiaries.com/hardcore/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://chimneysweepva.com/

]]>0cc915c6-b52f-4b98-bbab-7d8ac76ef6a8Mon, 10 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040001:18:33falsefull31211213Episode 114: ITERA's Paul McGreal: Like Having An Old Friend Over For A Cup of TeaEpisode 114: ITERA's Paul McGreal: Like Having An Old Friend Over For A Cup of TeaWe’re thrilled to welcome Paul McGreal of Durty Adventures to TDZ! As the Race Director behind the legendary ITERA race, Paul dives into the exciting return of this epic 5-day adventure, the timeless allure of AR, and the life lessons we pick up while navigating through the wild. Paul’s been a longtime friend of TDZ, and having him on the show felt like sharing a warm, virtual cup of tea with a longtime mate. This mid-winter episode is the perfect boost to keep your training spirits high and get you dreaming about the season ahead!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://itera.co.uk/

https://arworldseries.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.wildernesstraverse.com/

]]>We’re thrilled to welcome Paul McGreal of Durty Adventures to TDZ! As the Race Director behind the legendary ITERA race, Paul dives into the exciting return of this epic 5-day adventure, the timeless allure of AR, and the life lessons we pick up while navigating through the wild. Paul’s been a longtime friend of TDZ, and having him on the show felt like sharing a warm, virtual cup of tea with a longtime mate. This mid-winter episode is the perfect boost to keep your training spirits high and get you dreaming about the season ahead!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and We'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

https://itera.co.uk/

https://arworldseries.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.wildernesstraverse.com/

]]>ef1c863e-cd9f-426e-897a-0e6bec140effTue, 04 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040001:01:34falsefull31201203Crosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 9 - Anti-Doping Education and Adventure Racing with Alyssa GodeskyCrosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 9 - Anti-Doping Education and Adventure Racing with Alyssa GodeskyTDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #9. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 9 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent discusses doping, supplements, sleep, caffeine, and all the things that the adventure racer should consider around these topics. As a successful endurance athlete and coach, Alyssa offers perspective and consideration, and brings illumination to a complex topic. Thank you to her for stopping by The Checkpoint.

Guest Link:

Alyssa Godesky - https://www.alyssagodesky.com/

Featured USARA Races:

Mission Adventure Race 18 hrs.: https://www.dinoseries.com/mission-18-hour-race/

Chisholm Trail Adventure Race 24 hrs: https://www.texasprideracing.org/basic-01

Shownotes:

USARA: https://www.usara.com/anti-doping

USADA: https://www.usada.org/

Global Dro (medications): https://www.globaldro.com/Home

NSF: Certified for Sport (supplements): https://www.nsfsport.com/index.php

IV Infusions: https://www.usada.org/athlete-advisory/iv-infusions-explanatory-note/

Substance Profile-Inhaled Medications: https://www.usada.org/spirit-of-sport/education/what-athletes-need-to-know-about-inhaled-medications/

TUE Exemption Policy: https://www.usada.org/wp-content/uploads/USADA_TUE_Policy.pdf

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>TDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #9. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 9 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent discusses doping, supplements, sleep, caffeine, and all the things that the adventure racer should consider around these topics. As a successful endurance athlete and coach, Alyssa offers perspective and consideration, and brings illumination to a complex topic. Thank you to her for stopping by The Checkpoint.

Guest Link:

Alyssa Godesky - https://www.alyssagodesky.com/

Featured USARA Races:

Mission Adventure Race 18 hrs.: https://www.dinoseries.com/mission-18-hour-race/

Chisholm Trail Adventure Race 24 hrs: https://www.texasprideracing.org/basic-01

Shownotes:

USARA: https://www.usara.com/anti-doping

USADA: https://www.usada.org/

Global Dro (medications): https://www.globaldro.com/Home

NSF: Certified for Sport (supplements): https://www.nsfsport.com/index.php

IV Infusions: https://www.usada.org/athlete-advisory/iv-infusions-explanatory-note/

Substance Profile-Inhaled Medications: https://www.usada.org/spirit-of-sport/education/what-athletes-need-to-know-about-inhaled-medications/

TUE Exemption Policy: https://www.usada.org/wp-content/uploads/USADA_TUE_Policy.pdf

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>afd546a2-2633-4d97-aa29-2d0238c11eebSat, 01 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040001:13:26falsefull31191193Episode 113: Rootstock Racing and The Return of the Endless Mountains Adventure Race: Les Verd MontsEpisode 113: Rootstock Racing and The Return of the Endless Mountains Adventure Race: Les Verd MontsAbby Perkiss and Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing join TDZ to discuss the 3rd edition of The Endless Mountains Adventure Race: Les Verd Monts. Shifting from Pennsylvania to Vermont for this edition, Abby and Brent discuss the course, race travel logistics, training, teamwork, and just enough beta to whet a racer's appetite. Great training fuel for the Northern Hemisphere winter, listeners will be treated to a strong introduction to Expedition-distance races and how teams can succeed.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

https://arworldseries.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thecerberusrace.com/

www.thearschool.com

]]>Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing join TDZ to discuss the 3rd edition of The Endless Mountains Adventure Race: Les Verd Monts. Shifting from Pennsylvania to Vermont for this edition, Abby and Brent discuss the course, race travel logistics, training, teamwork, and just enough beta to whet a racer's appetite. Great training fuel for the Northern Hemisphere winter, listeners will be treated to a strong introduction to Expedition-distance races and how teams can succeed.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Show notes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

https://arworldseries.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thecerberusrace.com/

www.thearschool.com

]]>adf66a7a-6e99-45ae-a704-b6aa6fbc2b1fMon, 13 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -040055:44falsefull31181183Episode 112: Kim and Joel Ford: Racers Who Adventure! Their Journey on the Northern Forest Canoe TrailEpisode 112: Kim and Joel Ford: Racers Who Adventure! Their Journey on the Northern Forest Canoe TrailKim and Joel Ford recount their 40+ days and 700+ miles on the Northern Forest Canoe Trail in the Northeast United States. Preparation, gear, teamwork, and battling the bugs were all part of the adventure, and they brought it to us in vivid detail. We'll let them tell you the story about their new/borrowed tent, but suffice it to say that people are kind and wonderful. This episode is adventure fuel if there ever was one. Enjoy!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.northernforestcanoetrail.org

https://www.mississippispeedrecord.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thecerberusrace.com/

www.thearschool.com

]]>Kim and Joel Ford recount their 40+ days and 700+ miles on the Northern Forest Canoe Trail in the Northeast United States. Preparation, gear, teamwork, and battling the bugs were all part of the adventure, and they brought it to us in vivid detail. We'll let them tell you the story about their new/borrowed tent, but suffice it to say that people are kind and wonderful. This episode is adventure fuel if there ever was one. Enjoy!

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.northernforestcanoetrail.org

https://www.mississippispeedrecord.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thecerberusrace.com/

www.thearschool.com

]]>8ed76f69-ae6a-4d1b-ac1b-09a54edb26ebThu, 02 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040053:05falsefull31171173Episode 111: Scott Balhatchet - Starting his AR Career With a 48-Hour Race: Welcome to the Deep End of the PoolEpisode 111: Scott Balhatchet - Starting his AR Career With a 48-Hour Race: Welcome to the Deep End of the PoolAustralian adventure racer Scott Balhatchet recounts his first race experience at Chris Dixon's Mountain Designs GeoQuest 48-hour Adventure Race. Scott was on his couch minding his own business when a friend's phone call came in, and it was time to give AR a go. Thank you to Scott as he walks us through his (lack of) formal preparation, communication with his teammates, overcoming in-race adversity, and what he learned from the race.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.geoquest.com.au/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thecerberusrace.com/

www.thearschool.com

]]>Australian adventure racer Scott Balhatchet recounts his first race experience at Chris Dixon's Mountain Designs GeoQuest 48-hour Adventure Race. Scott was on his couch minding his own business when a friend's phone call came in, and it was time to give AR a go. Thank you to Scott as he walks us through his (lack of) formal preparation, communication with his teammates, overcoming in-race adversity, and what he learned from the race.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.geoquest.com.au/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thecerberusrace.com/

www.thearschool.com

]]>8e011ab1-3b06-496e-8f90-f81ec03e5e71Fri, 27 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -040001:06:01falsefull31161163Crosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 8 - Cold Weather Adventure Racing and Training with Andrea LarsonCrosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 8 - Cold Weather Adventure Racing and Training with Andrea LarsonTDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #8. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 8 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent interviews Andrea Larson of Ironbull and Rib Mountain Racing about cold-weather racing and training. They discuss various strategies, and Brent closes out the episode by emphasizing cold-weather safety strategies. This is a must-listen episode for all racers entering the winter months.

Rib Mountain Adventure Challenge - https://www.ribmountainadventurechallenge.com/

Ironbull - https://www.ironbull.org/

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

Upcoming USARA races featured in this episode:

Raid The Rock - https://www.raidtherock.com/

Shenandoah Epic - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>TDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint, presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association, through this crosspost of Episode #8. Thank you for listening and for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 8 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent interviews Andrea Larson of Ironbull and Rib Mountain Racing about cold-weather racing and training. They discuss various strategies, and Brent closes out the episode by emphasizing cold-weather safety strategies. This is a must-listen episode for all racers entering the winter months.

Rib Mountain Adventure Challenge - https://www.ribmountainadventurechallenge.com/

Ironbull - https://www.ironbull.org/

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

Upcoming USARA races featured in this episode:

Raid The Rock - https://www.raidtherock.com/

Shenandoah Epic - https://www.adventureenablers.com/

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast (www.ardarkzone.com) for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

]]>8e1f6fd1-a58f-4758-88c4-7eaea7ce7bfaWed, 18 Dec 2024 17:27:00 -040001:23:55falsefull31151153Episode 110: Flash Episode from the 2024 ARWC with World Champions 400Team joined by RD Santiago LopezEpisode 110: Flash Episode from the 2024 ARWC with World Champions 400Team joined by RD Santiago LopezJust hours after winning the ARWS 2024 World Championship, thank you to ARWS 2024 World Champions Team400 - Sébastien Raichon, Sandrine Berange, Adrien Lhermet, and Benjamin Fayety - along with Race Director Santiago Lopez for coming onto this special flash episode of The Dark Zone. Hear as they overcame adversity, worked together, and ultimately captured the world championship.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://live.enabledtracking.com/ARWC2024/

https://proyectoaventura.com/site/13/livearwc24

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Just hours after winning the ARWS 2024 World Championship, thank you to ARWS 2024 World Champions Team400 - Sébastien Raichon, Sandrine Berange, Adrien Lhermet, and Benjamin Fayety - along with Race Director Santiago Lopez for coming onto this special flash episode of The Dark Zone. Hear as they overcame adversity, worked together, and ultimately captured the world championship.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://live.enabledtracking.com/ARWC2024/

https://proyectoaventura.com/site/13/livearwc24

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>d99c02d7-e6e8-4226-aa03-ecefee9c5222Wed, 04 Dec 2024 18:55:00 -040040:59falsefull31141143Episode 109: The 2024 ARWS World Championship Race Course Reveal with RD Santiago LopezEpisode 109: The 2024 ARWS World Championship Race Course Reveal with RD Santiago LopezThank you to Race Director Santiago Lopez for coming onto the show to reveal and discuss the 2024 ARWS World Championship Race Course. This conversation is being released at the very start of the race so that fans, dotwatchers, and at-home teammates can get a sense of this challenging and rugged race course. See the tracking link below.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/ARWC2024/

https://www.arworldseries.com/races/huairasinchi-arwc-2024-ecuador

https://proyectoaventura.com/public/site/13/home_arwc24

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Race Director Santiago Lopez for coming onto the show to reveal and discuss the 2024 ARWS World Championship Race Course. This conversation is being released at the very start of the race so that fans, dotwatchers, and at-home teammates can get a sense of this challenging and rugged race course. See the tracking link below.

Thank you for listening. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in elevating the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/ARWC2024/

https://www.arworldseries.com/races/huairasinchi-arwc-2024-ecuador

https://proyectoaventura.com/public/site/13/home_arwc24

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>1a4eb594-c08b-45e2-a70a-3eb9dab302f0Sat, 30 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -040040:26falsefull31131133Episode 108: Megan Moir - Give the People What They Want! AKA One of TDZ's Most Requested GuestsEpisode 108: Megan Moir - Give the People What They Want! AKA One of TDZ's Most Requested GuestsVermont Adventure Racer Megan Moir, known for her hard work, effort, and positive attitude, is one of the more frequently requested "Hey, can you bring her on the show?" guests that TDZ hears about. In Episode 107, Megan shares her athletic background, entry into the sport, and how she has grown as an adventure racer. We were delighted to have her on the show. Enjoy!

Megan's Palmeres:

1st Place - 2-Person Coed - The Longest Day

1st Place (Tie) - Solo - Tug Hill

4th Place - 2-Person Coed - The Hard Fall

2024: Completed Five Races (and lived to tell about it) - Tug Hill, The Longest Day, The Hard Fall, USARA Nationals, and Two Rivers AR.

Expedition Race Experiences:

Endless Mountains 2022 - Finished

Endless Mountains 2023 - All mandatories and some optional checkpoints

Endless Mountains 2025 - Returning for another go at it!

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

https://tughilloutfitters.com/tug-hill-extreme-adventure/

https://www.rootstockracing.com/two-rivers-adventure-race.html

https://www.usara.com/national-championships-2024

https://www.gmara.org/races/hardfall/

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Vermont Adventure Racer Megan Moir, known for her hard work, effort, and positive attitude, is one of the more frequently requested "Hey, can you bring her on the show?" guests that TDZ hears about. In Episode 107, Megan shares her athletic background, entry into the sport, and how she has grown as an adventure racer. We were delighted to have her on the show. Enjoy!

Megan's Palmeres:

1st Place - 2-Person Coed - The Longest Day

1st Place (Tie) - Solo - Tug Hill

4th Place - 2-Person Coed - The Hard Fall

2024: Completed Five Races (and lived to tell about it) - Tug Hill, The Longest Day, The Hard Fall, USARA Nationals, and Two Rivers AR.

Expedition Race Experiences:

Endless Mountains 2022 - Finished

Endless Mountains 2023 - All mandatories and some optional checkpoints

Endless Mountains 2025 - Returning for another go at it!

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

https://tughilloutfitters.com/tug-hill-extreme-adventure/

https://www.rootstockracing.com/two-rivers-adventure-race.html

https://www.usara.com/national-championships-2024

https://www.gmara.org/races/hardfall/

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>9e17709a-ab42-492e-aec2-eaf02dc8cd1bMon, 04 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -040001:01:43falsefull31121123Episode 107: Flash Episode from the 2024 ARWS North American Championship - Rootstock Racing's Two Rivers AREpisode 107: Flash Episode from the 2024 ARWS North American Championship - Rootstock Racing's Two Rivers ARThank you to Mary Foster, Alyssa Godesky, Wayne Leek, Greg Prouty, and Race Directors Brent Freedland and Abby Perkiss for joining TDZ for an in-race flash episode live from the race course. It's been a great, fast race and their analysis/thoughts help everyone at home get a sense of the race so far.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/rivers2024/

www.usara.com

https://www.rootstockracing.com

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Mary Foster, Alyssa Godesky, Wayne Leek, Greg Prouty, and Race Directors Brent Freedland and Abby Perkiss for joining TDZ for an in-race flash episode live from the race course. It's been a great, fast race and their analysis/thoughts help everyone at home get a sense of the race so far.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/rivers2024/

www.usara.com

https://www.rootstockracing.com

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>9570e400-be3a-416a-857a-9eed697bf0ecSat, 26 Oct 2024 22:02:00 -040054:05falsefull31111113Episode 106: The 2024 ARWS North American Championship Race Course Reveal with RD's Abby Perkiss and Brent FreedlandEpisode 106: The 2024 ARWS North American Championship Race Course Reveal with RD's Abby Perkiss and Brent FreedlandThank you to Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing for coming onto the show to reveal and discuss the 2024 USARA North American Championship Race Course. This conversation is being released at the very start of the race so that fans, dotwatchers, and at-home teammates can get a sense of this challenging and rugged race course. See the tracking link below.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/rivers2024/

www.usara.com

https://www.rootstockracing.com

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing for coming onto the show to reveal and discuss the 2024 USARA North American Championship Race Course. This conversation is being released at the very start of the race so that fans, dotwatchers, and at-home teammates can get a sense of this challenging and rugged race course. See the tracking link below.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/rivers2024/

www.usara.com

https://www.rootstockracing.com

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>3fc82be8-b35b-4599-bd4a-e48601c52964Sat, 26 Oct 2024 06:15:00 -040054:04falsefull31101103Crosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 7 - Brent Freedland Introduces The Two Rivers AR, and Talks Nutritional Strategies for Racing and Life with Jen Segger and Jill MooneyCrosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 7 - Brent Freedland Introduces The Two Rivers AR, and Talks Nutritional Strategies for Racing and Life with Jen Segger and Jill MooneyTDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association through this crosspost of their Episode #6. Thank you for being a listener and thank you for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 7 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent introduces the Two Rivers Adventure Race. A Rootstock Racing event, Two Rivers is the ARWS North American Championship Race with the winning team earning a free spot to the 2025 ARWS World Championship in British Columbia.

Brent then speaks with Jen Segger and Jill Mooney about their partnership around nutritional strategies for adventure racers and all athletes. They go deep into the science of the stomach, how to avoid a 'sloshy gut,' and what good food choices look like. This is a great episode for anyone looking to nail their nutrition.

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

Shownotes:

https://www.jensegger.com/

https://barrultra.com/nutrition-with-jill/

www.rootstockracing.com

https://www.usara.com/

www.ardarkzone.com

]]>TDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association through this crosspost of their Episode #6. Thank you for being a listener and thank you for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 7 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent introduces the Two Rivers Adventure Race. A Rootstock Racing event, Two Rivers is the ARWS North American Championship Race with the winning team earning a free spot to the 2025 ARWS World Championship in British Columbia.

Brent then speaks with Jen Segger and Jill Mooney about their partnership around nutritional strategies for adventure racers and all athletes. They go deep into the science of the stomach, how to avoid a 'sloshy gut,' and what good food choices look like. This is a great episode for anyone looking to nail their nutrition.

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

Shownotes:

https://www.jensegger.com/

https://barrultra.com/nutrition-with-jill/

www.rootstockracing.com

https://www.usara.com/

www.ardarkzone.com

]]>f98d9fd4-a599-49ac-979d-afa17a800d20Sat, 19 Oct 2024 12:11:00 -040001:05:01falsefull31091093Episode 105: Glyn Sadler - Trans-Atlantic Rower: AR Lessons From Other AdventuresEpisode 105: Glyn Sadler - Trans-Atlantic Rower: AR Lessons From Other AdventuresThank you to Glyn Sadler for coming onto the show. From his years as a Royal Marine Commando to tackling a Trans-Atlantic Rowing Race, Glyn has many lessons for the adventure racing world. Glyn goes deep on his mindset, preparation, teamwork, and all the pieces necessary for a full ocean crossing (including turning down mid-race offerings from a well-meaning party boat!)

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

http://www.adventurespermare.co.uk

https://www.rannochadventure.com/

http://www.worldstoughestrow.com

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Glyn Sadler for coming onto the show. From his years as a Royal Marine Commando to tackling a Trans-Atlantic Rowing Race, Glyn has many lessons for the adventure racing world. Glyn goes deep on his mindset, preparation, teamwork, and all the pieces necessary for a full ocean crossing (including turning down mid-race offerings from a well-meaning party boat!)

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

http://www.adventurespermare.co.uk

https://www.rannochadventure.com/

http://www.worldstoughestrow.com

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>754a3dde-5dd2-46d5-a81b-75e68b9fd65dThu, 03 Oct 2024 15:07:00 -040001:05:32falsefull399993Episode 104: The 2024 USARA National Championship Race Course Preview with Liz and Michelle FaucherEpisode 104: The 2024 USARA National Championship Race Course Preview with Liz and Michelle FaucherThank you to Liz and Michelle Faucher of Adventure Addicts Racing for coming onto the show to reveal and discuss the 2024 USARA National Championship Race Course. This conversation is being released at the very start of the race so that fans, dotwatchers, and at-home teammates can get a sense of this challenging and rugged race course. See the tracking link below.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/usara2024/

www.usara.com

https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Liz and Michelle Faucher of Adventure Addicts Racing for coming onto the show to reveal and discuss the 2024 USARA National Championship Race Course. This conversation is being released at the very start of the race so that fans, dotwatchers, and at-home teammates can get a sense of this challenging and rugged race course. See the tracking link below.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

TRACKING LINK - https://live.enabledtracking.com/usara2024/

www.usara.com

https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>928df139-b252-47fb-8da2-6fc252c41684Fri, 27 Sep 2024 06:17:00 -040036:04falsefull41081084Episode 103: The 2025 ARWS World Championship with Lyndie Hill and John Ford of Expedition CanadaEpisode 103: The 2025 ARWS World Championship with Lyndie Hill and John Ford of Expedition CanadaThank you to Lyndie Hill and John Ford of Expedition Canada for coming on the show to discuss the ARWS 2025 World Championship in British Columbia. They go deep about the race location, the beauty and challenge of the area, being good Canadian hosts, and their race design philosophy. This episode has just enough beta to whet your racing appetite. Follow the links below for registration information.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-canada-canada

https://arworldseries.com/

https://www.swampdonkeyar.com/

https://mindovermountain.com/momar/

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Lyndie Hill and John Ford of Expedition Canada for coming on the show to discuss the ARWS 2025 World Championship in British Columbia. They go deep about the race location, the beauty and challenge of the area, being good Canadian hosts, and their race design philosophy. This episode has just enough beta to whet your racing appetite. Follow the links below for registration information.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.expeditionracecanada.ca/

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-canada-canada

https://arworldseries.com/

https://www.swampdonkeyar.com/

https://mindovermountain.com/momar/

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>245aec0e-80dd-45ff-a147-dd9f3ae86bbcSun, 15 Sep 2024 05:50:00 -040001:00:50falsefull41071074Episode 102: A Flash Episode from Expedition Oregon - Bend Racing's Darren Steinbach and Chelsey Magness Join From the Finish LineEpisode 102: A Flash Episode from Expedition Oregon - Bend Racing's Darren Steinbach and Chelsey Magness Join From the Finish LineThank you to Darren Steinbach and Chelsey Magness for coming onto the show for a TDZ Flash Episode. Recording live from the Expedition Oregon finish line, Darren and Chelsey walk us through the race course, the team experience, the challenging terrain, and their immersive race media style. Flash episodes are built for publishing speed so this episode is lightly edited and a peek into the highs and lows of putting on a multi-day race.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.bendracing.com/expeditionoregon2024

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Darren Steinbach and Chelsey Magness for coming onto the show for a TDZ Flash Episode. Recording live from the Expedition Oregon finish line, Darren and Chelsey walk us through the race course, the team experience, the challenging terrain, and their immersive race media style. Flash episodes are built for publishing speed so this episode is lightly edited and a peek into the highs and lows of putting on a multi-day race.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.bendracing.com/expeditionoregon2024

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>ef6f325a-c56b-41e6-9ab5-2e68bd208d20Thu, 12 Sep 2024 21:00:00 -040043:20falsefull41061064Episode 101: Racer Luis Becdach - The Beauty, Challenge, and Preparation for ARWS Worlds in EcuadorEpisode 101: Racer Luis Becdach - The Beauty, Challenge, and Preparation for ARWS Worlds in EcuadorThank you to Luis Becdach for coming onto the show. Luis is the perfect guest when discussing the upcoming ARWS World Championships in Ecuador. A longtime racer, Luis has raced Worlds multiple times and knows Ecuador like the back of his mano. Having raced alongside him in Huairasinchi in 2021, TDZ can attest to the accuracy of that last sentence. A wild, rugged place, Ecuador is a true adventure racing destination and this episode goes deep on how to prepare for what the teams will face in November.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.proyectoaventura.com/site/13/home_arwc24

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Luis Becdach for coming onto the show. Luis is the perfect guest when discussing the upcoming ARWS World Championships in Ecuador. A longtime racer, Luis has raced Worlds multiple times and knows Ecuador like the back of his mano. Having raced alongside him in Huairasinchi in 2021, TDZ can attest to the accuracy of that last sentence. A wild, rugged place, Ecuador is a true adventure racing destination and this episode goes deep on how to prepare for what the teams will face in November.

Thank you for being a listener. If you like what you hear, please like, click, and subscribe on your streaming platform of choice. This helps spread the word about Adventure Racing and TDZ's role in helping elevate the sport.

Remember - You Keep Racing, and we'll Keep Talking!

Shownotes:

https://www.proyectoaventura.com/site/13/home_arwc24

https://ardarkzone.com/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>2f1fe3ea-dcde-4014-84f0-18d7aeeec1acMon, 09 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -040044:18falsefull41051054Crosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 6 - Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road Racing, and Tray Farrar & Stephanie Ross Talk of Past National Championships And Their Enduring LegacyCrosspost Alert! - USARA's The Checkpoint: Episode 6 - Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road Racing, and Tray Farrar & Stephanie Ross Talk of Past National Championships And Their Enduring LegacyTDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association through this crosspost of their Episode #6. Thank you for being a listener and thank you for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 6 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent speaks with Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road Racing about his upcoming Fall Foliage Adventure Race. An increasingly popular race, the Fall Foliage is a great race for beginners and veterans alike. Our second segment is a deep dive into past USARA National Championships with Stephanie Ross and Tray Farrar. Packed with stories, adventures, and the challenges of presenting a national championship, this episode is a great way to prepare for next month's USARA National Championship Race in Snowshoe, West Virginia.

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

Shownotes:

https://www.usara.com/

www.ardarkzone.com

]]>TDZ is happy to support The Checkpoint presented by the United States Adventure Racing Association through this crosspost of their Episode #6. Thank you for being a listener and thank you for supporting USARA.

Episode Details Below:

Welcome to Episode 6 of USARA's The Checkpoint Podcast.

In this episode, Brent speaks with Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road Racing about his upcoming Fall Foliage Adventure Race. An increasingly popular race, the Fall Foliage is a great race for beginners and veterans alike. Our second segment is a deep dive into past USARA National Championships with Stephanie Ross and Tray Farrar. Packed with stories, adventures, and the challenges of presenting a national championship, this episode is a great way to prepare for next month's USARA National Championship Race in Snowshoe, West Virginia.

Thanks to Brian Gatens of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast for his assistance.

Be sure to visit the United States Adventure Racing Association at www.usara.com

Thank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

Shownotes:

https://www.usara.com/

www.ardarkzone.com

]]>19149fd3-6593-4c56-84c0-9211dc638678Sun, 01 Sep 2024 20:49:00 -040001:36:36falsefull41041044Episode 100.5: A TDZ Short - Steph Ross & Troy Farrar: USARA National Championship Memories and StoriesEpisode 100.5: A TDZ Short - Steph Ross & Troy Farrar: USARA National Championship Memories and StoriesTDZ helps the United States Adventure Racing Association with 'The Checkpoint' Podcast. In editing Episode #6, Steph Ross and Troy Farrar were asked by Host Brent Freedland about their favorite USARA National Championship memories.

Their answers were so interesting, fun, and poignant that we pulled them out for Episode 100.5 of TDZ. Call it a 'TDZ Short.' Not a full episode but a small taste of the stories that underpin TDZ's love of AR, and we're happy to share it here. Be sure to follow the links below for more information:

Shownotes:

https://www.usara.com/2024-national-championships

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>TDZ helps the United States Adventure Racing Association with 'The Checkpoint' Podcast. In editing Episode #6, Steph Ross and Troy Farrar were asked by Host Brent Freedland about their favorite USARA National Championship memories.

Their answers were so interesting, fun, and poignant that we pulled them out for Episode 100.5 of TDZ. Call it a 'TDZ Short.' Not a full episode but a small taste of the stories that underpin TDZ's love of AR, and we're happy to share it here. Be sure to follow the links below for more information:

Shownotes:

https://www.usara.com/2024-national-championships

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>45f92827-f846-4ef8-9cbb-4a2841bded25Tue, 20 Aug 2024 06:57:00 -040020:31falsefull41031034Episode 100: Grant Killian, Race Director - Untamed New England Adventure RaceEpisode 100: Grant Killian, Race Director - Untamed New England Adventure RaceThank you to Grant Killian for joining us for our 100th episode. Untamed New England holds a special place in the AR World as well as for The Dark Zone as it was the first expedition race that we tackled. A legendary race, UTNE was known not only for its challenging terrain and navigation, but for the ethic of exploration and discovery brought to the event by Grant. Even though the UTNE was last held in 2018, the DNA of his race lived on in many of today's most popular races (and we hope that this episode will help bring UTNE back!).

Shownotes:

http://untamedne.com/_/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>Thank you to Grant Killian for joining us for our 100th episode. Untamed New England holds a special place in the AR World as well as for The Dark Zone as it was the first expedition race that we tackled. A legendary race, UTNE was known not only for its challenging terrain and navigation, but for the ethic of exploration and discovery brought to the event by Grant. Even though the UTNE was last held in 2018, the DNA of his race lived on in many of today's most popular races (and we hope that this episode will help bring UTNE back!).

Shownotes:

http://untamedne.com/_/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.thearschool.com/

]]>c0c01046-7456-4877-83cf-5ac9a4a361b0Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:51:00 -040001:09:01falsefull41021024Episode 99: Nathalie Long: Raid The Rockies RD, Adventure Racer, and UltrarunnerEpisode 99: Nathalie Long: Raid The Rockies RD, Adventure Racer, and UltrarunnerThank you to Nathalie Long, Race Director for Raid The Rockies, for joining TDZ to talk about her newest stage race in the Canadian Rockies, her own racing career, and a little race called UTMB. Natalie runs the well-named Adventure Immersion Lab and her racers got their fair share of immersion at the inaugural Raid the Rockies.

Shownotes:

https://www.adventureimmersionlab.ca/

https://arworldseries.com/races/raid-the-rockies-canada

https://utmb.world/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Nathalie Long, Race Director for Raid The Rockies, for joining TDZ to talk about her newest stage race in the Canadian Rockies, her own racing career, and a little race called UTMB. Natalie runs the well-named Adventure Immersion Lab and her racers got their fair share of immersion at the inaugural Raid the Rockies.

Shownotes:

https://www.adventureimmersionlab.ca/

https://arworldseries.com/races/raid-the-rockies-canada

https://utmb.world/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>a4e4427c-2076-40f0-b5e6-bbdee9c10f38Thu, 18 Jul 2024 05:30:00 -040001:06:58falsefull41011014Dark Zone 98: One Water Race RD Thomas Ogander - The Ultimate Proof of Human CapacityDark Zone 98: One Water Race RD Thomas Ogander - The Ultimate Proof of Human CapacityThank you to Thomas Ogander, Race Director for the One Water Race, for joining TDZ to talk about One Water, the limits of human capacity, and how the Swedish Archipelago provides a challenging backdrop for his race. An increasingly popular event, racers swim/run for sixty hours and navigate among the coastal islands. Adventure Racers will see echoes of our sport in One Water.

Shownotes:

https://onewaterrace.com/

https://otilloswimrun.com/

https://www.gih.se/english

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7gbIVNCvG_4mSYKREpyU1g

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Thomas Ogander, Race Director for the One Water Race, for joining TDZ to talk about One Water, the limits of human capacity, and how the Swedish Archipelago provides a challenging backdrop for his race. An increasingly popular event, racers swim/run for sixty hours and navigate among the coastal islands. Adventure Racers will see echoes of our sport in One Water.

Shownotes:

https://onewaterrace.com/

https://otilloswimrun.com/

https://www.gih.se/english

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7gbIVNCvG_4mSYKREpyU1g

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>28a66338-ab8a-4eb3-b1a5-33f9b41a634eTue, 09 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -040053:21falsefull31001003Dark Zone 97: Expedition Canada's Ben Kwiatkowski - Big Goals and Big RacesDark Zone 97: Expedition Canada's Ben Kwiatkowski - Big Goals and Big RacesThank you to Expedition Canada's Ben Kwiatkowski for joining TDZ to talk about his big goals and his big races. In the past several years he has competed in some of the most challenging races on multiple continents including Eco-Challenge Fiji and the AR World Championships in South Africa. A firefighter by training with many years of outdoor experience, Ben has applied all that he knows to his racing. He loves being an adventure racer and it pours out of him during the interview.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://ecochallenge.com/

https://arc.remarkable.events/

https://arworldseries.com/races/vulcania-chile

https://larutamadre.mx/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>Thank you to Expedition Canada's Ben Kwiatkowski for joining TDZ to talk about his big goals and his big races. In the past several years he has competed in some of the most challenging races on multiple continents including Eco-Challenge Fiji and the AR World Championships in South Africa. A firefighter by training with many years of outdoor experience, Ben has applied all that he knows to his racing. He loves being an adventure racer and it pours out of him during the interview.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://ecochallenge.com/

https://arc.remarkable.events/

https://arworldseries.com/races/vulcania-chile

https://larutamadre.mx/

Sponsor Links:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

https://www.adventureenablers.com/

]]>079cc9ef-9c82-4074-b598-9afc6eb3a5f9Sun, 30 Jun 2024 17:32:00 -040001:03:05falsefull398983Dark Zone 96: Dr. Michelle A. Barton and Dr. Kathleen M. Sutcliffe: What Can AR Teach The World About Teamwork and Resiliency?Dark Zone 96: Dr. Michelle A. Barton and Dr. Kathleen M. Sutcliffe: What Can AR Teach The World About Teamwork and Resiliency?These may be the smartest guests that we'll ever have on The Dark Zone.

Thank you to Dr. Barton and Dr. Sutcliffe for joining TDZ to discuss the findings in their paper, "Enacting Resilience: Adventure Racing as a Microcosm of Resilience Organizing." Published in March 2023, they go deep on their onsite research at races and what AR teamwork teaches other organizations and professions. The team dynamic is vital in AR and everyone will leave with a greater understanding of how to function. Plus they are a lot of fun.

Shownotes:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1468-5973.12459?domain=p2p_domain&token=QMRHA2TXVIUWBMYBPHCM

Sponsor Links:

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024

]]>These may be the smartest guests that we'll ever have on The Dark Zone.

Thank you to Dr. Barton and Dr. Sutcliffe for joining TDZ to discuss the findings in their paper, "Enacting Resilience: Adventure Racing as a Microcosm of Resilience Organizing." Published in March 2023, they go deep on their onsite research at races and what AR teamwork teaches other organizations and professions. The team dynamic is vital in AR and everyone will leave with a greater understanding of how to function. Plus they are a lot of fun.

Shownotes:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1468-5973.12459?domain=p2p_domain&token=QMRHA2TXVIUWBMYBPHCM

Sponsor Links:

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024

]]>84a0e64a-ca42-4926-8f27-188f94fb92f3Mon, 27 May 2024 16:25:00 -040052:59falsefull397973Dark Zone 95: USARA National Championship Preview with RD's Michelle and Liz FaucherDark Zone 95: USARA National Championship Preview with RD's Michelle and Liz FaucherHere comes the course beta!

Thank you to USARA National Championship Race Directors Michelle and Liz Faucher for coming onto the show to preview the course, discuss the logistics, and otherwise turn the Race Stoke Meter up to 11 for this year's nationals. We go deep on all parts of the race and offer training advice for all racers.

TDZ will be onsite for this year's nationals helping to bring updates, information, and analysis. It'll be here before you know it this September, and we can't wait to see who is crowned the national champion.

Shownotes:

https://www.usara.com/2024-national-championships

https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

https://www.usara.com/2024-national-championships

Music Intro:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7xxNc2lJSTr77HfacfOLUl?si=Q3HuT2Y2TYyrxlRoy5HQFw

Sponsor Links:

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024

https://chimneysweepva.com/

]]>Here comes the course beta!

Thank you to USARA National Championship Race Directors Michelle and Liz Faucher for coming onto the show to preview the course, discuss the logistics, and otherwise turn the Race Stoke Meter up to 11 for this year's nationals. We go deep on all parts of the race and offer training advice for all racers.

TDZ will be onsite for this year's nationals helping to bring updates, information, and analysis. It'll be here before you know it this September, and we can't wait to see who is crowned the national champion.

Shownotes:

https://www.usara.com/2024-national-championships

https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

https://www.usara.com/2024-national-championships

Music Intro:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7xxNc2lJSTr77HfacfOLUl?si=Q3HuT2Y2TYyrxlRoy5HQFw

Sponsor Links:

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024

https://chimneysweepva.com/

]]>6474a769-c970-42af-8b6f-d21505f721f5Sun, 12 May 2024 18:25:00 -040059:35falsefull396963Dark Zone 94: Arthur the King, Mari the Racer and Brennan the Fan - Our Arthur The King Mega EpisodeDark Zone 94: Arthur the King, Mari the Racer and Brennan the Fan - Our Arthur The King Mega EpisodeThank you to Mari Chandler and Brennan Schoenherr for coming onto the show to discuss Arthur the King. Listeners know Mari well as she is most definitely a Friend of the Pod. Brennan is a new name for TDZ Nation. A personal friend and (currently) a non-racer, Brennan brings a new and insightful perspective to our sport. Aside from the dog, he's the real hero of this podcast. This episode is much more than a discussion of the film and we go deep on the lessons learned from the film and how they apply to AR. And, as usual, Mari regales us with story after story from her illustrious career. Special thanks to previous TDZ guest Mikael Lindnord, the real-life inspiration for Mark Wahlberg's character, for bringing his story of Arthur to the big screen.

Shownotes:

https://www.lionsgate.com/movies/arthur-the-king

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024

https://wondery.com/shows/alternate-routes/

]]>Thank you to Mari Chandler and Brennan Schoenherr for coming onto the show to discuss Arthur the King. Listeners know Mari well as she is most definitely a Friend of the Pod. Brennan is a new name for TDZ Nation. A personal friend and (currently) a non-racer, Brennan brings a new and insightful perspective to our sport. Aside from the dog, he's the real hero of this podcast. This episode is much more than a discussion of the film and we go deep on the lessons learned from the film and how they apply to AR. And, as usual, Mari regales us with story after story from her illustrious career. Special thanks to previous TDZ guest Mikael Lindnord, the real-life inspiration for Mark Wahlberg's character, for bringing his story of Arthur to the big screen.

Shownotes:

https://www.lionsgate.com/movies/arthur-the-king

https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024

https://wondery.com/shows/alternate-routes/

]]>24fbbd1e-1038-4125-a28f-11e44796ecf2Sun, 28 Apr 2024 17:11:00 -040001:15:25falsefull395953Dark Zone 93: Nick Hurff - Adventure Racer, Coach, Race Director, and Sports Performance ExpertDark Zone 93: Nick Hurff - Adventure Racer, Coach, Race Director, and Sports Performance ExpertThank you to Nick Hurff for coming onto the show. Whether as an Adventure Racer, Coach, Race Director, or Sports Performance Expert, Nick is a font of knowledge, experience, and wisdom. From his training to the intricacies of nutrition and recovery, Nick has much to share with the listener. Special shoutout for his Adaptive AR coming this year. This is another good one for both the newer and experienced racer.

Shownotes:

https://www.rev3endurance.com/

https://auwolves.com/staff-directory/nicholas-hurff-cscs/393

https://jessetubb.com/

]]>Thank you to Nick Hurff for coming onto the show. Whether as an Adventure Racer, Coach, Race Director, or Sports Performance Expert, Nick is a font of knowledge, experience, and wisdom. From his training to the intricacies of nutrition and recovery, Nick has much to share with the listener. Special shoutout for his Adaptive AR coming this year. This is another good one for both the newer and experienced racer.

Shownotes:

https://www.rev3endurance.com/

https://auwolves.com/staff-directory/nicholas-hurff-cscs/393

https://jessetubb.com/

]]>7ee89e57-d861-42a9-b276-ead0b52d37dcTue, 02 Apr 2024 20:52:00 -040001:05:41falsefull394943Dark Zone 92: Adventure Racer Raf Adametz - The Stoke Is High With This OneDark Zone 92: Adventure Racer Raf Adametz - The Stoke Is High With This OneThank you to Polish Adventure Racer and Ultra-endurance Athlete Rafael Adametz for coming onto the show. An accomplished racer, Raf recounts his entry to the sport, his growth as a racer, and his recent experience racing La Routa Adventure Race (the Philippine one, not the Mexice one). He's a great guest so settle in and enjoy this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

Shownotes:

https://www.ra-sportsmentor.com/

https://arworldseries.com/races/la-routa-adventure-race-philippines

]]>Thank you to Polish Adventure Racer and Ultra-endurance Athlete Rafael Adametz for coming onto the show. An accomplished racer, Raf recounts his entry to the sport, his growth as a racer, and his recent experience racing La Routa Adventure Race (the Philippine one, not the Mexice one). He's a great guest so settle in and enjoy this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

Shownotes:

https://www.ra-sportsmentor.com/

https://arworldseries.com/races/la-routa-adventure-race-philippines

]]>8a5f1695-c947-40c0-8683-aa1a552d04a6Tue, 26 Mar 2024 17:38:00 -040001:43:59falsefull393933Dark Zone 91: Team Mountain Designs Wild Women - Their Record Setting Win at the Legend Expedition RaceDark Zone 91: Team Mountain Designs Wild Women - Their Record Setting Win at the Legend Expedition RaceThank you to Team MDWW - Mountain Designs Wild Women - for coming onto the show. As the first all-female team to win an ARWS Expedition Race, they have secured their spot in AR lore, and also provide a cracking good episode filled with guidance, advice, and the keys to their longevity. With 78 combined years of adventure racing between them, they are the best of the best and when they speak, AR class is in session.

Shownotes:

https://www.wldnco.com/24-hour-to-6-day-events/legend-expd

https://www.blogger.com/profile/11710981965297924946

https://sportzhub.com/article/historic-win-for-mountain-designs-wild-women-team-at-legend-xpd-australia.html

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dark-zone-84-adventure-racer-and-race-director-chris/id1578529221?i=1000636511297

Episode Sponsors:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Team MDWW - Mountain Designs Wild Women - for coming onto the show. As the first all-female team to win an ARWS Expedition Race, they have secured their spot in AR lore, and also provide a cracking good episode filled with guidance, advice, and the keys to their longevity. With 78 combined years of adventure racing between them, they are the best of the best and when they speak, AR class is in session.

Shownotes:

https://www.wldnco.com/24-hour-to-6-day-events/legend-expd

https://www.blogger.com/profile/11710981965297924946

https://sportzhub.com/article/historic-win-for-mountain-designs-wild-women-team-at-legend-xpd-australia.html

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dark-zone-84-adventure-racer-and-race-director-chris/id1578529221?i=1000636511297

Episode Sponsors:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>299476fd-9016-4d74-96b7-7ab562421b3aFri, 01 Mar 2024 22:34:00 -040001:04:11falsefull392923Introducing The Checkpoint Podcast: A Collaboration between the United States Adventure Racing Association and The Dark ZoneIntroducing The Checkpoint Podcast: A Collaboration between the United States Adventure Racing Association and The Dark ZoneThe Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast is delighted to collaborate with the United States Adventure Racing Association on their new podcast: The Checkpoint. Join Brent Freedland and Brian Gatens as they interview regional race directors and a wide variety of voices from the world of Adventure Racing.

Shownotes:

The Checkpoint on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-checkpoint/id1730696441

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/MO/Eminence/TheBerrymanAdventure

https://www.dinoseries.com/

www.usara.com

]]>The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast is delighted to collaborate with the United States Adventure Racing Association on their new podcast: The Checkpoint. Join Brent Freedland and Brian Gatens as they interview regional race directors and a wide variety of voices from the world of Adventure Racing.

Shownotes:

The Checkpoint on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-checkpoint/id1730696441

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/MO/Eminence/TheBerrymanAdventure

https://www.dinoseries.com/

www.usara.com

]]>cfe8d9a0-7e46-4d76-80f2-82c57c5a4dc8Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:03:00 -040001:00:29falsefull391913Dark Zone 90: Team NAWWAL - Not All Who Wander Are Lost and Their Wild Race at Malacara 2023Dark Zone 90: Team NAWWAL - Not All Who Wander Are Lost and Their Wild Race at Malacara 2023Thank you to Team NAWWAL - Not All Who Wander Are Lost - for coming onto the show. This is a true-blue AR story. Four (somewhat) strangers decide to join forces and take on the 2023 edition Malacara Expedition Race in Florianopolis, Brazil. What follows is a bonkers story of struggle, teamwork, triumph and finishing with leftover food. This is a great listen to kill an hour or so while training. Thank you, NAWWAL, for coming onto TDZ.

Shownotes:

https://www.malacararace.com.br/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Team NAWWAL - Not All Who Wander Are Lost - for coming onto the show. This is a true-blue AR story. Four (somewhat) strangers decide to join forces and take on the 2023 edition Malacara Expedition Race in Florianopolis, Brazil. What follows is a bonkers story of struggle, teamwork, triumph and finishing with leftover food. This is a great listen to kill an hour or so while training. Thank you, NAWWAL, for coming onto TDZ.

Shownotes:

https://www.malacararace.com.br/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>8924b8a3-44c7-4cd0-bf62-3f107b5f892bMon, 22 Jan 2024 21:01:00 -040001:13:24falsefull390903Dark Zone 89: Danny Collins and Jason Bettis: Returning RD's for Expedition Ozark 2024 - What They Learned as 1st Time RD's and What Racers Can Expect in 2024Dark Zone 89: Danny Collins and Jason Bettis: Returning RD's for Expedition Ozark 2024 - What They Learned as 1st Time RD's and What Racers Can Expect in 2024Thank you to Jason Bettis and Danny Collins for returning to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Expedition Ozark 2024 is their sophomore effort as RD's and are coming into this year's race following the great success and positive feedback from EO 2023. This episode touches upon their growth as RD's, their own successful adventure racing careers, and the appeal of Northwest Arkansas as a racing destination.

Shownotes:

https://www.expeditionozark.com/

https://www.visitbentonville.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Jason Bettis and Danny Collins for returning to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Expedition Ozark 2024 is their sophomore effort as RD's and are coming into this year's race following the great success and positive feedback from EO 2023. This episode touches upon their growth as RD's, their own successful adventure racing careers, and the appeal of Northwest Arkansas as a racing destination.

Shownotes:

https://www.expeditionozark.com/

https://www.visitbentonville.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>41f6c040-a8d6-4a3b-bce8-a1228d7e99b9Mon, 15 Jan 2024 16:10:00 -040001:01:37falsefull389893Dark Zone 88: Santiago Lopez - 2024 ARWS World Championship Race Director, Expedition Racer, and a Human AR Crystal BallDark Zone 88: Santiago Lopez - 2024 ARWS World Championship Race Director, Expedition Racer, and a Human AR Crystal BallThank you to Santiago Lopez for coming onto the show. One of the longest-serving and most successful race directors in the sport, Santiago talks about his experiences as both racer and race director, the upcoming ARWS World Championship in Ecuador, and his thoughts about the future of the sport. Huairasinchi, the race for which he is best known, is the adventure race with more editions in the history of the sport (19). 

Santiago is a great guest in which to kick off 2024. This is going to be a wonderful year for our sport and there's no better way to start than by focusing on the World Championship, but have no fear, there is a lot of content in here for racers of all distances and abilities.

Shownotes:

https://www.proyectoaventura.com/site/13/home_arwc24

https://www.arworldseries.com/races/huairasinchi-arwc-2024-ecuador

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Santiago Lopez for coming onto the show. One of the longest-serving and most successful race directors in the sport, Santiago talks about his experiences as both racer and race director, the upcoming ARWS World Championship in Ecuador, and his thoughts about the future of the sport. Huairasinchi, the race for which he is best known, is the adventure race with more editions in the history of the sport (19). 

Santiago is a great guest in which to kick off 2024. This is going to be a wonderful year for our sport and there's no better way to start than by focusing on the World Championship, but have no fear, there is a lot of content in here for racers of all distances and abilities.

Shownotes:

https://www.proyectoaventura.com/site/13/home_arwc24

https://www.arworldseries.com/races/huairasinchi-arwc-2024-ecuador

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>39bd780d-ea86-4ba5-99be-ad9d92ae8279Sun, 07 Jan 2024 21:41:00 -040001:04:51falsefull388883Dark Zone 87: Alyssa Godesky - So Many Adjectives - Adventure Racer, Pro Triathlete, FKT Record Holder, Barkleys Racer, Coach, One Water Racer, Podcaster, Human Swiss Army KnifeDark Zone 87: Alyssa Godesky - So Many Adjectives - Adventure Racer, Pro Triathlete, FKT Record Holder, Barkleys Racer, Coach, One Water Racer, Podcaster, Human Swiss Army KnifeThank you to Alyssa Godesky for coming onto the show. One of our more accomplished guests, Alyssa has placed on the podium at the 2022 USARA National Championship, has eight top-5 professional finishes at the Ironman distance, and holds multiple Fastest Known Times (FKT's) including on the New Hampshire 48 High Peaks, Adirondack 46 High Peaks and Vermont's Long Trail (273 miles). Alyssa competed in the One Water Race in Sweden this past year, and she goes deep on that experience. Along the way we discuss her work as a coach, her "Ironwomen" podcast, and how the role of women in endurance sports has evolved.

Shownotes:

https://www.alyssagodesky.com/

https://biscaycoaching.com/alyssa-godesky/

https://livefeisty.com/ironwomen/

https://onewaterrace.com/athletes/alyssa-godesky/

One Water Race Full Video - https://youtu.be/Yam_dvoVp6U?si=lnWGz_4MmTNJdcQu

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Alyssa Godesky for coming onto the show. One of our more accomplished guests, Alyssa has placed on the podium at the 2022 USARA National Championship, has eight top-5 professional finishes at the Ironman distance, and holds multiple Fastest Known Times (FKT's) including on the New Hampshire 48 High Peaks, Adirondack 46 High Peaks and Vermont's Long Trail (273 miles). Alyssa competed in the One Water Race in Sweden this past year, and she goes deep on that experience. Along the way we discuss her work as a coach, her "Ironwomen" podcast, and how the role of women in endurance sports has evolved.

Shownotes:

https://www.alyssagodesky.com/

https://biscaycoaching.com/alyssa-godesky/

https://livefeisty.com/ironwomen/

https://onewaterrace.com/athletes/alyssa-godesky/

One Water Race Full Video - https://youtu.be/Yam_dvoVp6U?si=lnWGz_4MmTNJdcQu

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>0bd7e28c-41ab-40b1-9128-f3a39a445ed6Sun, 17 Dec 2023 19:04:00 -040001:09:58falsefull387873Dark Zone 86: Amanda Bohley - A Human "Break Glass In Case A Great Teammate is Needed" Emergency BoxDark Zone 86: Amanda Bohley - A Human "Break Glass In Case A Great Teammate is Needed" Emergency BoxThank you to Amanda Bohley for coming onto the show. Originally recorded in December 2022, Amanda drops timeproof stories, pearls of wisdom, and overall stoke for this sport of ours. From having the world's greatest co-workers to being the adventure race equivalent of a human "Break Glass In Case A Great Teammate is Needed" emergency box, Amanda loves AR and we love the enthusiasm, attitude, and support that she brings to her teammates. Thank you for coming onto the show AND for your patience while waiting for TDZ to get this one out into the world.

Shownotes:

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

https://www.facebook.com/BRF.Podcast/

https://www.bendracing.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Amanda Bohley for coming onto the show. Originally recorded in December 2022, Amanda drops timeproof stories, pearls of wisdom, and overall stoke for this sport of ours. From having the world's greatest co-workers to being the adventure race equivalent of a human "Break Glass In Case A Great Teammate is Needed" emergency box, Amanda loves AR and we love the enthusiasm, attitude, and support that she brings to her teammates. Thank you for coming onto the show AND for your patience while waiting for TDZ to get this one out into the world.

Shownotes:

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

https://www.facebook.com/BRF.Podcast/

https://www.bendracing.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>df6fae50-4ba5-433f-8d6c-bcfcf4b6aa72Sun, 10 Dec 2023 09:21:00 -040001:00:59falsefull386863Dark Zone 85: Arthur the King's Mikael Lindnord - Adventure Racer, Author, and Executive ProducerDark Zone 85: Arthur the King's Mikael Lindnord - Adventure Racer, Author, and Executive ProducerThank you to Mikael Lindnord - Adventure Racer, Author, and Executive Producer of the upcoming film 'Arthur the King' for coming onto the show. Not only does Mikael share his experience with Arthur, the dog he rescued in Ecuador in 2014, but he also shares his vast racing experience and what it was like to be an Executive Producer for the upcoming film. Our longest episode yet, Mikael goes deep on all his experiences and we are grateful for his time.

Shownotes:

https://greystonebooks.com/products/arthur

https://www.arthurtheking.movie/synopsis/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjDJNEPghNY

https://www.arworldseries.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Mikael Lindnord - Adventure Racer, Author, and Executive Producer of the upcoming film 'Arthur the King' for coming onto the show. Not only does Mikael share his experience with Arthur, the dog he rescued in Ecuador in 2014, but he also shares his vast racing experience and what it was like to be an Executive Producer for the upcoming film. Our longest episode yet, Mikael goes deep on all his experiences and we are grateful for his time.

Shownotes:

https://greystonebooks.com/products/arthur

https://www.arthurtheking.movie/synopsis/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjDJNEPghNY

https://www.arworldseries.com/

Episode Sponsors:

https://thewealthgardenfs.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>3ef0277c-f111-4dab-9f30-eeb3c5b5c306Sat, 02 Dec 2023 21:40:00 -040001:34:08falsefull385853Dark Zone 84: Adventure Racer and Race Director Chris Dixon of Australia's Wild&Co. - Big Races, Big Plans, and Big FunDark Zone 84: Adventure Racer and Race Director Chris Dixon of Australia's Wild&Co. - Big Races, Big Plans, and Big FunThank you to Adventure Racer and Race Director Chris Dixon for coming onto the show. Chris's outfit, Wild&Co., offers AR's all over Australia and his organization likes to think big and offer expansive and challenging races. First and foremost, Chris loves to be an adventure racer and he makes sure that his events honor the sport, the efforts of the racers, and focuses on getting people to the finish line. Chris is a a human stoke machine and you're going to want to go get your gear and head off on an adventure following this one.

Shownotes:

https://www.wldnco.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>Thank you to Adventure Racer and Race Director Chris Dixon for coming onto the show. Chris's outfit, Wild&Co., offers AR's all over Australia and his organization likes to think big and offer expansive and challenging races. First and foremost, Chris loves to be an adventure racer and he makes sure that his events honor the sport, the efforts of the racers, and focuses on getting people to the finish line. Chris is a a human stoke machine and you're going to want to go get your gear and head off on an adventure following this one.

Shownotes:

https://www.wldnco.com/

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

]]>6d88e2c7-6ade-479c-b3dd-b7ec5e6e8e17Sat, 25 Nov 2023 16:30:00 -040001:09:10falsefull384843Dark Zone 83: Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team - The 2023 Adventure Racing World ChampionsDark Zone 83: Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team - The 2023 Adventure Racing World ChampionsThank you to Per Vestling and Oskar Svärd of The Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team (SAFAT) for coming onto the show. The 2023 Adventure Racing World Champions Per and Oskar, alongside their teammates Malin Hjalmarsson and Team Captain John Karlsson, captured their 2nd championship in the last three years at the ARWS World Championship held in Kouga, South Africa in October 2023.

Shownotes:

https://www.facebook.com/swedisharmedforcesadventureteam/

https://arworldseries.com/

https://orienteer.co/

]]>Thank you to Per Vestling and Oskar Svärd of The Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team (SAFAT) for coming onto the show. The 2023 Adventure Racing World Champions Per and Oskar, alongside their teammates Malin Hjalmarsson and Team Captain John Karlsson, captured their 2nd championship in the last three years at the ARWS World Championship held in Kouga, South Africa in October 2023.

Shownotes:

https://www.facebook.com/swedisharmedforcesadventureteam/

https://arworldseries.com/

https://orienteer.co/

]]>b7331210-90b3-43d6-a4c0-68695452c57cFri, 10 Nov 2023 05:25:00 -040001:04:42falsefull383833Dark Zone 82: Mari Chandler of Team Vidaraid – A Storming Massive Comeback to Capture 2nd Place at the ARWS World ChampionshipsDark Zone 82: Mari Chandler of Team Vidaraid – A Storming Massive Comeback to Capture 2nd Place at the ARWS World ChampionshipsThank you to repeat guest Mari Chandler of Team Vidaraid for joining the show. She is fresh from the ARWS Championship Race Course and walks us through the race, the ups and downs, and how Vidaraid stormed back from a long overnight dark zone to capture 2nd place. Full of wisdom and experience, Mari is not to be missed.

Thank you to The New York Adventure Racing Association - www.nyara.org - for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone. Reach out to us at Brian@ardarkzone.com if you'd like to explore possible episode sponsorships. Rates are beyond reasonable.

]]>Thank you to repeat guest Mari Chandler of Team Vidaraid for joining the show. She is fresh from the ARWS Championship Race Course and walks us through the race, the ups and downs, and how Vidaraid stormed back from a long overnight dark zone to capture 2nd place. Full of wisdom and experience, Mari is not to be missed.

Thank you to The New York Adventure Racing Association - www.nyara.org - for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone. Reach out to us at Brian@ardarkzone.com if you'd like to explore possible episode sponsorships. Rates are beyond reasonable.

]]>8fdc2ead-1a5c-48c3-a0bf-3ca9eeb7276bWed, 25 Oct 2023 17:29:00 -040051:25falsefull382823Dark Zone 81: Flash Episode #2 – ARWS Championship - Getting Close To Crowning A Winning TeamDark Zone 81: Flash Episode #2 – ARWS Championship - Getting Close To Crowning A Winning TeamWelcome to Flash Podcast Episode #2 of The Dark Zone. Once again we have assembled an excellent team of analysts to share their thoughts and wisdom with the legions of at-home dotwatchers. This episode was recorded on Facebook Live during the ARWS World Championships held in South Africa October 2023.

Thank you to Stephanie Ross from Flying Squirrel Racing, Jason Magness from Bend Racing, and Brent Freedland from Rootstock Racing for coming onto today’s show. Special thanks to Jeff O’Connor of Adventure Racing Insider for helping to produce the episode.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://www.adventureracinginsider.com/

https://www.unbridledwomenar.com/

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

https://www.bendracing.com/

]]>Welcome to Flash Podcast Episode #2 of The Dark Zone. Once again we have assembled an excellent team of analysts to share their thoughts and wisdom with the legions of at-home dotwatchers. This episode was recorded on Facebook Live during the ARWS World Championships held in South Africa October 2023.

Thank you to Stephanie Ross from Flying Squirrel Racing, Jason Magness from Bend Racing, and Brent Freedland from Rootstock Racing for coming onto today’s show. Special thanks to Jeff O’Connor of Adventure Racing Insider for helping to produce the episode.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://www.adventureracinginsider.com/

https://www.unbridledwomenar.com/

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

https://www.bendracing.com/

]]>6120f1ef-23aa-40ea-bbfb-2a7a9fc36b13Mon, 23 Oct 2023 20:46:00 -040001:01:46falsefull381813Dark Zone 80: Flash Episode - ARWS Championship Race Updates, Analysis and PredictionsDark Zone 80: Flash Episode - ARWS Championship Race Updates, Analysis and PredictionsThe next best thing to adventure racing is talking about adventure racing and welcome to this Flash Podcast Episode of The Dark Zone. We have assembled a crack team of analysts to offer in-race updates, analysis, and predictions from the ARWS World Championship Race happening RIGHT NOW in South Africa!

Thank you to Ashley Eaton from Strong Machine, Jason Magness from Bend Racing, and Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland from Rootstock Racing for coming onto today's show. Special thanks to Jeff O'Connor of Adventure Racing Insider for helping to produce the episode.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://www.adventureracinginsider.com/

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

https://www.bendracing.com/

https://www.strongmachinear.com/

]]>The next best thing to adventure racing is talking about adventure racing and welcome to this Flash Podcast Episode of The Dark Zone. We have assembled a crack team of analysts to offer in-race updates, analysis, and predictions from the ARWS World Championship Race happening RIGHT NOW in South Africa!

Thank you to Ashley Eaton from Strong Machine, Jason Magness from Bend Racing, and Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland from Rootstock Racing for coming onto today's show. Special thanks to Jeff O'Connor of Adventure Racing Insider for helping to produce the episode.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/

https://www.adventureracinginsider.com/

https://www.rootstockracing.com/

https://www.bendracing.com/

https://www.strongmachinear.com/

]]>7621ec78-3980-468c-9fcd-0dc95cbec0e4Sat, 21 Oct 2023 11:47:00 -040048:49falsefull380803Dark Zone 79: ARWS World Championship Course Preview with Race Director Stephan MullerDark Zone 79: ARWS World Championship Course Preview with Race Director Stephan MullerThank you to ARWS World Championships Race Director Stephan Muller for coming onto the show. This episode is a full course preview of the 2023 World Championships being held in Kouga, South Africa. 800 KM, 10 stages, and over 8 days of racing is just waiting out there for the racers and this episode goes deep on the entire course. Thank you to Stephan for making time for us during the busy days leading up to the race.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-africa-kouga-eastern-cape-south-africa

https://arworldseries.com/

]]>Thank you to ARWS World Championships Race Director Stephan Muller for coming onto the show. This episode is a full course preview of the 2023 World Championships being held in Kouga, South Africa. 800 KM, 10 stages, and over 8 days of racing is just waiting out there for the racers and this episode goes deep on the entire course. Thank you to Stephan for making time for us during the busy days leading up to the race.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-africa-kouga-eastern-cape-south-africa

https://arworldseries.com/

]]>dea01e89-f407-4483-8a83-b19e83a7d420Tue, 17 Oct 2023 05:03:00 -040001:08:26falsefull379793Dark Zone 78: USARA Nationals 2nd Place Team: The Jesses of Team Grit Adventures and Nationals RD Chris YagerDark Zone 78: USARA Nationals 2nd Place Team: The Jesses of Team Grit Adventures and Nationals RD Chris YagerThank you to Nationals Race Director Chris Yager and Team Grit Adventure members Jesse Spangler and Jesse Tubb for coming onto the show. This episode recounts their 2nd place finish at the 2023 USARA National Championships. All three guests have been on TDZ previously and they do a great job recounting the race, discussing their nutritional and navigational strategy, and sharing their training in advance of such a strong performance. Their teammate Amanda Bohley was missed but she'll be on soon enough to share her experience as well.

Shownotes:

https://www.grit-adventures.com/

www.rootstockracing.com

www.orienteer.co

www.mcdonalds.com

www.snickers.com

]]>Thank you to Nationals Race Director Chris Yager and Team Grit Adventure members Jesse Spangler and Jesse Tubb for coming onto the show. This episode recounts their 2nd place finish at the 2023 USARA National Championships. All three guests have been on TDZ previously and they do a great job recounting the race, discussing their nutritional and navigational strategy, and sharing their training in advance of such a strong performance. Their teammate Amanda Bohley was missed but she'll be on soon enough to share her experience as well.

Shownotes:

https://www.grit-adventures.com/

www.rootstockracing.com

www.orienteer.co

www.mcdonalds.com

www.snickers.com

]]>ab85b4ec-91eb-484b-94d7-f22625b811f3Sun, 08 Oct 2023 16:45:00 -040057:42falsefull378783Dark Zone 77: Sachiko Tokoro of Team East Wind Recounts NIAR's Faroe Island Adventure RaceDark Zone 77: Sachiko Tokoro of Team East Wind Recounts NIAR's Faroe Island Adventure RaceThank you to Sachiko for coming onto the show. This episode recounts Team East Wind's experience at the Nordic Islands Adventure Race on the Faroe Islands from August 2023. A legendary team, East Wind lived up to its reputation of relentless racing, strong competition, and making solid strategic decisions. Sachiko, a well-established long-distance trail runner before she joined East Wind, speaks at length about not only the race and the team's experience, but also her personal race strategies. She was a delightful guest and congratulations on her upcoming wedding (a fact that she just casually dropped during the interview to my great delight).

Shownotes:

https://www.east-wind.jp/team/

https://www.niar.io/races/niar-faroe-islands-2023/

]]>Thank you to Sachiko for coming onto the show. This episode recounts Team East Wind's experience at the Nordic Islands Adventure Race on the Faroe Islands from August 2023. A legendary team, East Wind lived up to its reputation of relentless racing, strong competition, and making solid strategic decisions. Sachiko, a well-established long-distance trail runner before she joined East Wind, speaks at length about not only the race and the team's experience, but also her personal race strategies. She was a delightful guest and congratulations on her upcoming wedding (a fact that she just casually dropped during the interview to my great delight).

Shownotes:

https://www.east-wind.jp/team/

https://www.niar.io/races/niar-faroe-islands-2023/

]]>35253582-dfba-47d7-a1fc-0283b50c6b43Mon, 04 Sep 2023 22:44:00 -040059:41falsefull277772Dark Zone 76: Abby and Brent of Rootstock Racing & Their Deep Dive Into The Endless Mountains Adventure Race Directing ExperienceDark Zone 76: Abby and Brent of Rootstock Racing & Their Deep Dive Into The Endless Mountains Adventure Race Directing ExperienceThank you to Abby and Brent of Rootstock Racing for coming onto the show. This episode is the culmination of a six-episode arc in which TDZ was embedded into The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. In this episode, Abby and Brent unpack the planning, preparation and experience of presenting a 5-day race. It's a deep dive into all aspects of the race. Special mention is made about volunteers, their dedication, and the experience of many of the racers. This is a great listen for both the aspiring RD and also for racers considering making the jump into longer-distance adventure races.

Shownotes:

www.rootstockracing.com

www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>Thank you to Abby and Brent of Rootstock Racing for coming onto the show. This episode is the culmination of a six-episode arc in which TDZ was embedded into The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. In this episode, Abby and Brent unpack the planning, preparation and experience of presenting a 5-day race. It's a deep dive into all aspects of the race. Special mention is made about volunteers, their dedication, and the experience of many of the racers. This is a great listen for both the aspiring RD and also for racers considering making the jump into longer-distance adventure races.

Shownotes:

www.rootstockracing.com

www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>16cdc4d7-1302-4c17-8b3e-9cf639a9d052Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:07:00 -040001:21:41falsefull276762Dark Zone 75: Javier Barreda - Race Director for La Ruta Madre: Mexico's Toughest RaceDark Zone 75: Javier Barreda - Race Director for La Ruta Madre: Mexico's Toughest RaceThank you to La Ruta Madre Race Director Javier Barreda for coming onto the show. Billed as 'Mexico's Toughest Race," La Ruta Madre puts the natural beauty of Mexico on full display. Javier speaks about the challenging course, the high level of hospitality, and how he works hard for both a great race and to give those who travel a wonderful overall experience. Get your gear ready! Mexico is calling!

Shownotes:

https://larutamadre.mx/

]]>Thank you to La Ruta Madre Race Director Javier Barreda for coming onto the show. Billed as 'Mexico's Toughest Race," La Ruta Madre puts the natural beauty of Mexico on full display. Javier speaks about the challenging course, the high level of hospitality, and how he works hard for both a great race and to give those who travel a wonderful overall experience. Get your gear ready! Mexico is calling!

Shownotes:

https://larutamadre.mx/

]]>24f57ccc-da93-422e-94c6-05739187d046Tue, 18 Jul 2023 07:03:00 -040056:17falsefull275752Dark Zone 74: Team Bend Racing - Winner of Rootstock Racing's 2023 Endless Mountains Adventure RaceDark Zone 74: Team Bend Racing - Winner of Rootstock Racing's 2023 Endless Mountains Adventure RaceThank you to Team Bend Racing for joining TDZ to discuss their decisive victory at Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Alongside their discussion of their race, Bend speaks about their approach to the sport, team dynamics, and the process they follow when it comes to race training and preparation.

Shownotes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

www.rootstockracing.com

www.bendracing.com

www.orienteer.co

]]>Thank you to Team Bend Racing for joining TDZ to discuss their decisive victory at Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Alongside their discussion of their race, Bend speaks about their approach to the sport, team dynamics, and the process they follow when it comes to race training and preparation.

Shownotes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

www.rootstockracing.com

www.bendracing.com

www.orienteer.co

]]>ec6afd99-cbf7-423a-ab4f-95773d2103e7Sat, 01 Jul 2023 16:49:00 -040001:12:31falsefull274742Dark Zone 73: Voices of the Volunteers - The Heart and Soul of Adventure RacingDark Zone 73: Voices of the Volunteers - The Heart and Soul of Adventure RacingThank you to volunteers Jim Rounsley, Misty and Ainsley Glenn, and Shelley Johannesen for joining TDZ during Day 4 of Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Without volunteers, we wouldn't have adventure races, and this episode highlights their motivation as well as the wisdom and knowledge they pick up along the way. There is always more to learn and thank you for their time and thoughts.

Shownotes:

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>Thank you to volunteers Jim Rounsley, Misty and Ainsley Glenn, and Shelley Johannesen for joining TDZ during Day 4 of Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Without volunteers, we wouldn't have adventure races, and this episode highlights their motivation as well as the wisdom and knowledge they pick up along the way. There is always more to learn and thank you for their time and thoughts.

Shownotes:

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>5c885dd0-69ea-4680-a221-c4095e470f06Thu, 29 Jun 2023 15:39:00 -040030:50falsefull273732Dark Zone 72: Flash Podcast - Endless Mountains Day 3 Expert AnalysisDark Zone 72: Flash Podcast - Endless Mountains Day 3 Expert AnalysisThank you to Emily Korsch, Jason Magness, and Stephanie Ross for joining TDZ on Facebook Live to discuss the Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Teams are now halfway through the race and our panel analysis helps the adventure racing fan understand and enjoy the race. Plus, there are always lessons to be learned for all racers.

Shownotes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

www.bendracing.com

and

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>Thank you to Emily Korsch, Jason Magness, and Stephanie Ross for joining TDZ on Facebook Live to discuss the Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Teams are now halfway through the race and our panel analysis helps the adventure racing fan understand and enjoy the race. Plus, there are always lessons to be learned for all racers.

Shownotes:

www.endlessmountainsar.com

www.bendracing.com

and

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>8dd2fedd-2c80-45ef-9f64-dbc1176267f1Wed, 28 Jun 2023 17:44:00 -040001:02:10falsefull272722Dark Zone 71: Direct from the Course - The Racers of the Endless MountainsDark Zone 71: Direct from the Course - The Racers of the Endless MountainsHere comes the biggest episode ever of the TDZ. Over 100 minutes of racer voices directly from the race course of Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Thanks to the kind hosting of the Penn-Wells Hotel in Wellsboro, PA, TDZ was able to interview each racer team during a mandatory media stop. The entire project took over 13 hours from the race leader to the chasing teams. Here comes some gonzo podcast.

https://www.pennwells.com/

www.rootstockracing.com

www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>Here comes the biggest episode ever of the TDZ. Over 100 minutes of racer voices directly from the race course of Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Thanks to the kind hosting of the Penn-Wells Hotel in Wellsboro, PA, TDZ was able to interview each racer team during a mandatory media stop. The entire project took over 13 hours from the race leader to the chasing teams. Here comes some gonzo podcast.

https://www.pennwells.com/

www.rootstockracing.com

www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>ffa3253f-1d95-452d-bb7d-cb38cc7d3d14Tue, 27 Jun 2023 20:46:00 -040001:40:04falsefull271712Dark Zone 70: Live from Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains - The Return of Zoe F.Dark Zone 70: Live from Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains - The Return of Zoe F.Welcome back to Zoe F. for her return visit to The Dark Zone. A lifelong AR racer, volunteer and font of wisdom, Zoe shares her thoughts on teamwork, transitions, nutrition, and what she hopes for the racers at Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Be sure to return tomorrow to TDZ as we'll be bringing daily episodes from The Endless Mountains.

Thank you to Lycoming College, host site of the Endless Mountains, for sponsoring this episode of the Dark Zone.

https://www.lycoming.edu/

]]>Welcome back to Zoe F. for her return visit to The Dark Zone. A lifelong AR racer, volunteer and font of wisdom, Zoe shares her thoughts on teamwork, transitions, nutrition, and what she hopes for the racers at Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains Adventure Race. Be sure to return tomorrow to TDZ as we'll be bringing daily episodes from The Endless Mountains.

Thank you to Lycoming College, host site of the Endless Mountains, for sponsoring this episode of the Dark Zone.

https://www.lycoming.edu/

]]>6efcf8a0-b399-4135-8042-16e6634b2096Sun, 25 Jun 2023 10:43:00 -040021:56falsefull270702Dark Zone 69: USARA Nationals Sneak Peek with GMARA RD Chris Yager and USARA Executive Director Michael GarrisonDark Zone 69: USARA Nationals Sneak Peek with GMARA RD Chris Yager and USARA Executive Director Michael GarrisonThank you to USARA Nationals Race Director Chris Yager of the Green Mountain Adventure Racing Association (GMARA) and USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison for joining The Dark Zone to offer a first peek into the upcoming 2023 USARA National Championships based out of Smuggler's Notch in Vermont. Kudos to Chris for sharing just enough about the course to pique racer interest and to Garrison for offering a big-picture view into this year's national championship.

Shownotes:

GMARA - https://www.gmara.org/

USARA - https://www.usara.com/

]]>Thank you to USARA Nationals Race Director Chris Yager of the Green Mountain Adventure Racing Association (GMARA) and USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison for joining The Dark Zone to offer a first peek into the upcoming 2023 USARA National Championships based out of Smuggler's Notch in Vermont. Kudos to Chris for sharing just enough about the course to pique racer interest and to Garrison for offering a big-picture view into this year's national championship.

Shownotes:

GMARA - https://www.gmara.org/

USARA - https://www.usara.com/

]]>460a1998-041e-4a81-bbdb-ce529b656bc9Wed, 14 Jun 2023 06:36:00 -040001:00:37falsefull269692Dark Zone 68: The Return of Seegs - Racer, Coach, and Mountain Guide Jen Segger Is Back For Another Round With TDZDark Zone 68: The Return of Seegs - Racer, Coach, and Mountain Guide Jen Segger Is Back For Another Round With TDZThank you to AR Racer, Coach and Mountain Guide Jen Segger for returning to The Dark Zone for another episode. Seegs was first on TDZ #24 and returns with even more wisdom, stories, and guidance. Pull up a chair and give this one a good listen.

Jen was kind enough to extend the following offer to TDZ listeners:

40% off my AR courses for both BEG and INT Sprint races (this is the 4-8hrs race training)

It is valid until DEC 31st, 2023.

Code: darkzone

Find the course on my website at www.jensegger.com

Shownotes:

Episode #24 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dark-zone-24-jen-segger-they-call-her-seegs-coach/id1578529221?i=1000553075482

]]>Thank you to AR Racer, Coach and Mountain Guide Jen Segger for returning to The Dark Zone for another episode. Seegs was first on TDZ #24 and returns with even more wisdom, stories, and guidance. Pull up a chair and give this one a good listen.

Jen was kind enough to extend the following offer to TDZ listeners:

40% off my AR courses for both BEG and INT Sprint races (this is the 4-8hrs race training)

It is valid until DEC 31st, 2023.

Code: darkzone

Find the course on my website at www.jensegger.com

Shownotes:

Episode #24 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dark-zone-24-jen-segger-they-call-her-seegs-coach/id1578529221?i=1000553075482

]]>8ef210a6-6cbc-4ab0-8e72-2121baad55baSun, 11 Jun 2023 20:41:00 -040001:07:19falsefull268682Dark Zone 67: Paul Steele & John Hardin of the CheNarr Adventure RaceDark Zone 67: Paul Steele & John Hardin of the CheNarr Adventure RaceThank you to Paul Steele and John Hardin for coming onto the show to talk about their newest endeavor. The CheNarr Adventure Race is coming to the Nashville, Tennessee area this coming August. Driven by a desire to share the natural beauty of the area and their love of adventure, John and Paul are excited for the first edition of the race.

Shownotes:

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/TN/Pegram/CheNarr

https://hardwinadventures.com/

]]>Thank you to Paul Steele and John Hardin for coming onto the show to talk about their newest endeavor. The CheNarr Adventure Race is coming to the Nashville, Tennessee area this coming August. Driven by a desire to share the natural beauty of the area and their love of adventure, John and Paul are excited for the first edition of the race.

Shownotes:

https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/TN/Pegram/CheNarr

https://hardwinadventures.com/

]]>810e050c-ee5e-4d8b-b5fe-4275d8080d46Wed, 31 May 2023 19:32:00 -040052:35falsefull267672Dark Zone 66: Stephan Muller - Race Director for the ARWS World ChampionshipDark Zone 66: Stephan Muller - Race Director for the ARWS World ChampionshipThank you to Stephan Muller for coming onto the show. A longtime adventure racer, including the first Eco-Challenge, Stephan goes deep on his plans for the ARWS World Championship in South Africa this October. Along the way he shares his AR wisdom, talks about what the sport means to him, and how teams can prepare for a big race.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/world-championship

]]>Thank you to Stephan Muller for coming onto the show. A longtime adventure racer, including the first Eco-Challenge, Stephan goes deep on his plans for the ARWS World Championship in South Africa this October. Along the way he shares his AR wisdom, talks about what the sport means to him, and how teams can prepare for a big race.

Shownotes:

https://arworldseries.com/world-championship

]]>f54b54bb-111d-430a-aa87-9631bcdb5336Thu, 18 May 2023 17:19:00 -040059:39falsefull266662Dark Zone 65: Travis and Mark 'Mace' Macy - Father and Son Adventure Racers and Their Alzheimer's Journey of Love, Adventure, and HopeDark Zone 65: Travis and Mark 'Mace' Macy - Father and Son Adventure Racers and Their Alzheimer's Journey of Love, Adventure, and HopeThank you to Travis and Mark 'Mace' Macy for joining The Dark Zone to share their experience, strength, hope, and stories. Travis's new book A Mile at a Time recounts their family's dedication to endurance racing (including Mace's participation in the first Eco-Challenge), Mace's Alzheimer's diagnosis, Travis's successful adventure racing career, and their decision to race Eco-Challenge: Fiji together. Along the way, they both share their AR wisdom.

A Mile at a Time - https://a.co/d/5r135yv

Travis Macy - www.travismacy.com

Danelle Ballengee - https://www.runnersworld.com/trail-running/a20808181/danelle-ballengee-five-years-later/

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>Thank you to Travis and Mark 'Mace' Macy for joining The Dark Zone to share their experience, strength, hope, and stories. Travis's new book A Mile at a Time recounts their family's dedication to endurance racing (including Mace's participation in the first Eco-Challenge), Mace's Alzheimer's diagnosis, Travis's successful adventure racing career, and their decision to race Eco-Challenge: Fiji together. Along the way, they both share their AR wisdom.

A Mile at a Time - https://a.co/d/5r135yv

Travis Macy - www.travismacy.com

Danelle Ballengee - https://www.runnersworld.com/trail-running/a20808181/danelle-ballengee-five-years-later/

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>6b3500f1-d105-4062-9c08-a04bfedc4b42Mon, 08 May 2023 20:30:00 -040001:07:16falsefull265652Dark Zone 64: Adrian Crane - Longtime Racer, Veteran of EVERY Eco-Challenge, ARWS Referee, and Human Story MachineDark Zone 64: Adrian Crane - Longtime Racer, Veteran of EVERY Eco-Challenge, ARWS Referee, and Human Story MachineThank you to Adrian Crane for joining The Dark Zone to share his adventure racing stories and wisdom. Adrian has competed in every Eco-Challenge, among many other events, and shares not only his stories from back in the day, but what he sees today as an Adventure Racing World Series referee. We are fortunate to have Adrian on the show and the TDZ community is grateful for his time.

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>Thank you to Adrian Crane for joining The Dark Zone to share his adventure racing stories and wisdom. Adrian has competed in every Eco-Challenge, among many other events, and shares not only his stories from back in the day, but what he sees today as an Adventure Racing World Series referee. We are fortunate to have Adrian on the show and the TDZ community is grateful for his time.

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>c970ae51-8aae-48a9-a6bb-6343c396d564Tue, 02 May 2023 05:57:00 -040001:05:11falsefull264642Dark Zone 63: Jennifer Strong McConachie - Author of "Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win At Life"Dark Zone 63: Jennifer Strong McConachie - Author of "Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win At Life"Thank you to Jennifer Strong McConachie for joining The Dark Zone to discuss her book Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win at Life. An accomplished ultrarunner, climber, and endurance sports competitor, she doesn't hold back in sharing her many life lessons and personal adventures. And, yes, rollerblading finally makes its way onto an episode of TDZ. My apologies in advance.

https://jenniferstrongmccon.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Go-Far-Endurance-Sports-Help/dp/157826913X

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>Thank you to Jennifer Strong McConachie for joining The Dark Zone to discuss her book Go Far: How Endurance Sports Help You Win at Life. An accomplished ultrarunner, climber, and endurance sports competitor, she doesn't hold back in sharing her many life lessons and personal adventures. And, yes, rollerblading finally makes its way onto an episode of TDZ. My apologies in advance.

https://jenniferstrongmccon.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Go-Far-Endurance-Sports-Help/dp/157826913X

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>797d63e4-4045-4182-a2f4-2332aba0e631Tue, 18 Apr 2023 19:43:00 -040001:05:58falsefull263632Dark Zone 62: Team Bend Racing/Skin Doctor - Expedition Ozark Champions Fresh from the Finish LineDark Zone 62: Team Bend Racing/Skin Doctor - Expedition Ozark Champions Fresh from the Finish LineThank you to Team Bend Racing/Skin Doctor for joining The Dark Zone. Only a few hours from their resounding win at Expedition Ozark, Bend Racing recounts their journey, the challenges along the way, and how they held it together at the front of the race for so long. This is a must listen for racers of all speeds as Bend shares so many of their strategies and techniques. Special thanks to Rob Howard of www.sleepmonsters.com for helping to arrange the interview so quickly.

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

Shownotes - Be sure to check out:

https://arworldseries.com/

www.expeditionozark.com

www.bendracing.com

Want to give an expedition race a go?

Be sure to check out www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>Thank you to Team Bend Racing/Skin Doctor for joining The Dark Zone. Only a few hours from their resounding win at Expedition Ozark, Bend Racing recounts their journey, the challenges along the way, and how they held it together at the front of the race for so long. This is a must listen for racers of all speeds as Bend shares so many of their strategies and techniques. Special thanks to Rob Howard of www.sleepmonsters.com for helping to arrange the interview so quickly.

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

Shownotes - Be sure to check out:

https://arworldseries.com/

www.expeditionozark.com

www.bendracing.com

Want to give an expedition race a go?

Be sure to check out www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>d6732d71-38fa-4697-8b40-608f5a0544abFri, 07 Apr 2023 18:16:00 -040001:06:03falsefull262622Dark Zone 61: Flash Episode: Expedition Ozark Just Past the Halfway Point of the RaceDark Zone 61: Flash Episode: Expedition Ozark Just Past the Halfway Point of the RaceFlash Podcast alert - This is a special episode of TDZ. No music! No intro! Nothing! We get right into Expedition Ozark. Welcome to the show!

Thank you to Brent Freedland, Emily Korsch and Jason Magness for joining The Dark Zone for this Expedition Ozark Flash Episode. Recorded halfway through the race, our panel discusses the race so far, the strategies being used by the teams, the mid-pack and back-of-the-pack teams that are still slugging it out, and the race to the finish.

https://www.expeditionozark.com/

www.rootstockracing.com

https://www.bendracing.com/

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>Flash Podcast alert - This is a special episode of TDZ. No music! No intro! Nothing! We get right into Expedition Ozark. Welcome to the show!

Thank you to Brent Freedland, Emily Korsch and Jason Magness for joining The Dark Zone for this Expedition Ozark Flash Episode. Recorded halfway through the race, our panel discusses the race so far, the strategies being used by the teams, the mid-pack and back-of-the-pack teams that are still slugging it out, and the race to the finish.

https://www.expeditionozark.com/

www.rootstockracing.com

https://www.bendracing.com/

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

]]>fffb8a43-40cd-4178-896f-e516c9127949Wed, 05 Apr 2023 22:48:00 -040055:39falsefull261612Dark Zone 60: Travis and Mike of Adventure Enablers: Racers, Adventurers, and Aspiring Race DirectorsDark Zone 60: Travis and Mike of Adventure Enablers: Racers, Adventurers, and Aspiring Race DirectorsThank you to Travis Siehndel and Mike Chaney of Adventure Enablers for joining The Dark Zone. Their wide-ranging conversation covers their Adventure Racing, Self-Made Adventures, and their jump into Race Directing. Chock full of advice, this episode is valuable to both the beginner and the veteran racer.

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

Shownotes - Be sure to check out:

https://www.adventureenablers.com/almostheavenar

www.endlessmountainsar.com

https://thedirtbag.libsyn.com/fun_divided_by_three

https://www.adventurecycling.org/

]]>Thank you to Travis Siehndel and Mike Chaney of Adventure Enablers for joining The Dark Zone. Their wide-ranging conversation covers their Adventure Racing, Self-Made Adventures, and their jump into Race Directing. Chock full of advice, this episode is valuable to both the beginner and the veteran racer.

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

VJ Shoes - https://vjshoesusa.com/the-dark-zone and use code: darkzone20 for a $20 discount.

And please visit TDZ's Charity Partner - Ascend Athletics at https://www.ascendathletics.org/ and learn more about their work with young women in Pakistan and Afghanistan. TDZ is happy to promote its work at no cost to Ascend.

Shownotes - Be sure to check out:

https://www.adventureenablers.com/almostheavenar

www.endlessmountainsar.com

https://thedirtbag.libsyn.com/fun_divided_by_three

https://www.adventurecycling.org/

]]>331c0d34-02f7-4096-91f9-eff0a5ea8177Wed, 22 Mar 2023 17:25:00 -040001:16:02falsefull260602Dark Zone 59: Team Fear Youth - Molly and Fynn Return to the Show (with a Magness Thrown In for Good Measure)Dark Zone 59: Team Fear Youth - Molly and Fynn Return to the Show (with a Magness Thrown In for Good Measure)Thank you to New Zealanders Fynn and Molly of Team Fear Youth for returning to The Dark Zone (Check them out on Episode #30) to recount their experience at Godzone, Chapter 11. They had a great race and do a fine job telling the world all about it. They offer a master class on how to level up from Year 1 to Year 2 and do it in the typically humble NZ sort of way.

Be sure to check out:

https://godzoneadventure.com/

https://www.facebook.com/fearsocietynz/

]]>Thank you to New Zealanders Fynn and Molly of Team Fear Youth for returning to The Dark Zone (Check them out on Episode #30) to recount their experience at Godzone, Chapter 11. They had a great race and do a fine job telling the world all about it. They offer a master class on how to level up from Year 1 to Year 2 and do it in the typically humble NZ sort of way.

Be sure to check out:

https://godzoneadventure.com/

https://www.facebook.com/fearsocietynz/

]]>9839b036-05d3-461a-8a99-4413a0f54427Sun, 12 Mar 2023 17:10:00 -040057:29falsefull259592Dark Zone 58: Vanessa Cummings - A First Time Racer with Longtime Wisdom (Like Call the RD When You're Going To Be 2 Hours Late)Dark Zone 58: Vanessa Cummings - A First Time Racer with Longtime Wisdom (Like Call the RD When You're Going To Be 2 Hours Late)Thank you to Vanessa Cummings for coming onto The Dark Zone. We connected with Vanessa well in advance of her first race and she was kind enough to track her preparation and overall approach to the event while balancing the other demands of day-to-day life. Special shoutout to her strategy of springboarding from volunteering at an event to racing it the next year. A tried and true method for many a new adventure racer.

]]>Thank you to Vanessa Cummings for coming onto The Dark Zone. We connected with Vanessa well in advance of her first race and she was kind enough to track her preparation and overall approach to the event while balancing the other demands of day-to-day life. Special shoutout to her strategy of springboarding from volunteering at an event to racing it the next year. A tried and true method for many a new adventure racer.

]]>7c2f7686-747e-411d-b8a6-62b20fba273bSun, 05 Mar 2023 17:10:00 -040001:06:22falsefull258582Dark Zone 57: Marina LeGree of Ascend Leadership Through Athletics - Empowering Young Women Through SportDark Zone 57: Marina LeGree of Ascend Leadership Through Athletics - Empowering Young Women Through SportThank you to Marina LeGree of Ascend Leadership Through Athletics for joining The Dark Zone for a discussion of her group's work in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Along the way we draw the connection between her organization's work and what similarities it has to the attitude and ethics of AR.

You can learn more about Ascend and support their work at the following link:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Also, we reference Rebecca Solnit's powerful book: A Paradise Built in Hell during the podcast and that link may be found here:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/301070/a-paradise-built-in-hell-by-rebecca-solnit/

]]>Thank you to Marina LeGree of Ascend Leadership Through Athletics for joining The Dark Zone for a discussion of her group's work in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Along the way we draw the connection between her organization's work and what similarities it has to the attitude and ethics of AR.

You can learn more about Ascend and support their work at the following link:

https://www.ascendathletics.org/

Also, we reference Rebecca Solnit's powerful book: A Paradise Built in Hell during the podcast and that link may be found here:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/301070/a-paradise-built-in-hell-by-rebecca-solnit/

]]>d61fb76e-8921-4a7e-b6c1-2b082ee8af01Tue, 14 Feb 2023 22:08:00 -040041:27falsefull257572Dark Zone 56: Mary Foster: What are the Five Foster Rules? Listen to Find Out!Dark Zone 56: Mary Foster: What are the Five Foster Rules? Listen to Find Out!Thank you to Mary for joining The Dark Zone to talk about her entry into AR, her years as a solo racer, and her trajectory into becoming a multi-day racer. Along the way, we write down the Five "Foster Rules" that she has developed. Mary loves AR, the people that she meets, and what she has learned about herself. Warning - This one may cause you to strap a pack on your back and go walk through the night.

]]>Thank you to Mary for joining The Dark Zone to talk about her entry into AR, her years as a solo racer, and her trajectory into becoming a multi-day racer. Along the way, we write down the Five "Foster Rules" that she has developed. Mary loves AR, the people that she meets, and what she has learned about herself. Warning - This one may cause you to strap a pack on your back and go walk through the night.

]]>15180521-d1b6-4ea3-8cf3-ed3eb71f19ffWed, 01 Feb 2023 06:08:00 -040056:37falsefull256562Dark Zone 55: John Courain of The New York Adventure Racing AssociationDark Zone 55: John Courain of The New York Adventure Racing AssociationThank you to John for joining The Dark Zone to talk about NYARA's premier event - The Longest Day 24-Hour Race - and his experience as a racer, race director, and student of the sport. John's enthusiasm for AR is contagious and you'll want to listen to this one when you're on the trainer, climbing a mountain or pounding out those road miles.

Learn more at www.nyara.org

Thank you to this episode's sponsor - The United States Adventure Racing Association. Now is the time to head over to their website to check out their resources, event calendar, and see all that they have to offer the community.

Learn more at www.usara.com

]]>Thank you to John for joining The Dark Zone to talk about NYARA's premier event - The Longest Day 24-Hour Race - and his experience as a racer, race director, and student of the sport. John's enthusiasm for AR is contagious and you'll want to listen to this one when you're on the trainer, climbing a mountain or pounding out those road miles.

Learn more at www.nyara.org

Thank you to this episode's sponsor - The United States Adventure Racing Association. Now is the time to head over to their website to check out their resources, event calendar, and see all that they have to offer the community.

Learn more at www.usara.com

]]>5574ae33-fc18-4917-8774-153699853850Sun, 15 Jan 2023 13:55:00 -040001:03:31falsefull255552Dark Zone 54: Expedition Ozark Race Directors Jason Bettis and Danny CollinsDark Zone 54: Expedition Ozark Race Directors Jason Bettis and Danny CollinsThank you to Jason and Danny for joining The Dark Zone to talk about Expedition Ozark, a new 5-day race coming up in April 2023. Set in the host city of Bentonville, Arkansas, EO sounds like it has all things for all racers. Jason and Danny talk about the course, the disciplines, and what the race has to offer. And, of course, there will be caves, but the fun type!

Learn more at: www.expeditionozark.com

]]>Thank you to Jason and Danny for joining The Dark Zone to talk about Expedition Ozark, a new 5-day race coming up in April 2023. Set in the host city of Bentonville, Arkansas, EO sounds like it has all things for all racers. Jason and Danny talk about the course, the disciplines, and what the race has to offer. And, of course, there will be caves, but the fun type!

Learn more at: www.expeditionozark.com

]]>3c1d84c0-d952-4db4-8843-d27011a30235Tue, 20 Dec 2022 21:44:00 -040053:08falsefull254542Dark Zone 53: Kate Geisen - Adventure Racers Who Adventure: The Great Divide Mountain Bike RouteDark Zone 53: Kate Geisen - Adventure Racers Who Adventure: The Great Divide Mountain Bike RouteThank you to Kate Geisen for coming on the show as she recounts her AR history, but more importantly her bikepacking adventure on the North-to-South route of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. Kate walks us through her prep, those early hard days (including an unexpected zero-day), her need to commit breaking and entering (with permission), and how an automatic sprinkler was her partner's biggest nemesis.

Be sure to check out Ride the Divide at https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1530991/

]]>Thank you to Kate Geisen for coming on the show as she recounts her AR history, but more importantly her bikepacking adventure on the North-to-South route of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. Kate walks us through her prep, those early hard days (including an unexpected zero-day), her need to commit breaking and entering (with permission), and how an automatic sprinkler was her partner's biggest nemesis.

Be sure to check out Ride the Divide at https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1530991/

]]>1213857e-8544-4365-aa63-3c6d1b0aa1f9Fri, 16 Dec 2022 16:05:00 -040001:04:49falsefull253532Dark Zone 52: David Webster of Team ACDC AR: The Biggest First Race Leap Ever?Dark Zone 52: David Webster of Team ACDC AR: The Biggest First Race Leap Ever?Welcome to David Webster of Team ACDC AR. Not only did he jump into the deep end of the pool at the 5-day ITERA Expedition Race this past August, but he didn't even dip his toes in the water beforehand. Sit down, buckle up, and listen to how David jumped into an expedition race as his first AR.

Special thanks to NYARA.org for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone. Head over to their website to learn about their premiere event The Longest Day coming up in August 2023. Thanks for being a listener and feel free to send any thoughts or ideas to brian@ardarkzone.com

]]>Welcome to David Webster of Team ACDC AR. Not only did he jump into the deep end of the pool at the 5-day ITERA Expedition Race this past August, but he didn't even dip his toes in the water beforehand. Sit down, buckle up, and listen to how David jumped into an expedition race as his first AR.

Special thanks to NYARA.org for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone. Head over to their website to learn about their premiere event The Longest Day coming up in August 2023. Thanks for being a listener and feel free to send any thoughts or ideas to brian@ardarkzone.com

]]>41d2e9c2-e7a6-4e2a-b6f1-50044a4a6e43Fri, 25 Nov 2022 16:34:00 -040001:09:32falsefull252522Dark Zone 51: Eastern Mountain Wilderness Challenge Winners Earl Blanchard & Michael Dickey - Packrafts, Eight Year Old Socks, and VictoryDark Zone 51: Eastern Mountain Wilderness Challenge Winners Earl Blanchard & Michael Dickey - Packrafts, Eight Year Old Socks, and VictoryThe Eastern Mountain Wilderness Challenge, the brainchild of Eric Caravella of Packrafting Adventures, was held for the first time this past August in New York State's Adirondack Park. A wilderness area larger than the State of Massachusetts, the Adirondacks offer a true backcountry experience for the teams that took on this 30-hour, four-checkpoint race. That's right. No bins. No TA's. Nothing. Just a set of maps and an expansive wilderness.

Follow this link to see the race maps and the route choices of each of the teams:

https://www.packraftingadventures.com/emwc-2022

Those maps will come in handy while listening to this episode.

Thank you for being a listener. Please leave a review on your preferred streaming platform of choice. That's the best way to spread the word about The Dark Zone.

]]>The Eastern Mountain Wilderness Challenge, the brainchild of Eric Caravella of Packrafting Adventures, was held for the first time this past August in New York State's Adirondack Park. A wilderness area larger than the State of Massachusetts, the Adirondacks offer a true backcountry experience for the teams that took on this 30-hour, four-checkpoint race. That's right. No bins. No TA's. Nothing. Just a set of maps and an expansive wilderness.

Follow this link to see the race maps and the route choices of each of the teams:

https://www.packraftingadventures.com/emwc-2022

Those maps will come in handy while listening to this episode.

Thank you for being a listener. Please leave a review on your preferred streaming platform of choice. That's the best way to spread the word about The Dark Zone.

]]>b7fe2227-c3b7-43f9-b223-5d7c330979d0Sun, 23 Oct 2022 18:23:00 -040057:39falsefull251512Dark Zone 50: Nathan Fa'avae - 7-Time Adventure Racing World Champion with Team Avaya and a Great Ambassador for ARDark Zone 50: Nathan Fa'avae - 7-Time Adventure Racing World Champion with Team Avaya and a Great Ambassador for ARThank you to Nathan Fa'avae for coming onto the show. In many ways, Nathan is in no need of an introduction as his 20+ year adventure racing career, with multiple wins and 7 AR World Championships, does all the talking for him, but Nathan is plentiful in his thoughts and gracious with his time as he speaks about his personal growth as a racer. Alongside that, he walks us through the challenges and successes of his team's recent World Championship win in Paraguay.

]]>Thank you to Nathan Fa'avae for coming onto the show. In many ways, Nathan is in no need of an introduction as his 20+ year adventure racing career, with multiple wins and 7 AR World Championships, does all the talking for him, but Nathan is plentiful in his thoughts and gracious with his time as he speaks about his personal growth as a racer. Alongside that, he walks us through the challenges and successes of his team's recent World Championship win in Paraguay.

]]>12c5d286-f56b-4dea-bece-4702b5a9870fTue, 04 Oct 2022 21:21:00 -040001:28:45falsefull250502Dark Zone 49: Jesse Spangler - Class Is In Session When Racer Jesse Spangler Steps To The MicDark Zone 49: Jesse Spangler - Class Is In Session When Racer Jesse Spangler Steps To The MicWhether solo or with a team, Jesse Spangler brings his best, fast self to every adventure race that he enters. Thank you to him for coming on the show to talk about his entry to the sport, how his solo racing has helped him to be a better teammate, and defining all those navigation terms that bedevil those of us who are more human.

]]>Whether solo or with a team, Jesse Spangler brings his best, fast self to every adventure race that he enters. Thank you to him for coming on the show to talk about his entry to the sport, how his solo racing has helped him to be a better teammate, and defining all those navigation terms that bedevil those of us who are more human.

]]>4a271a26-abb9-46da-bbaa-32d007dfaec3Tue, 27 Sep 2022 18:32:00 -040001:00:52falsefull249492Dark Zone 48: Flash Podcast - AR World Champs Podium with Craig Cook, Brent Freedland and Jason MagnessDark Zone 48: Flash Podcast - AR World Champs Podium with Craig Cook, Brent Freedland and Jason MagnessThank you to Craig Cook of AR Live Coverage, Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing and Jason Magness of Bend Racing for coming onto the show for instant/flash analysis of the ARWS World Championships in Paraguay. The top ten are still coming across the line (after almost 130 hours of racing) and teams are scattered all over this monster of a course. They talk about Avaya's convincing win, the teams left in their wake, and what this course (and sport) does to people.

www.arworldseries.com

www.facebook.com/arlivecoverage

www.rootstockracing.com

www.bendracing.com

]]>Thank you to Craig Cook of AR Live Coverage, Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing and Jason Magness of Bend Racing for coming onto the show for instant/flash analysis of the ARWS World Championships in Paraguay. The top ten are still coming across the line (after almost 130 hours of racing) and teams are scattered all over this monster of a course. They talk about Avaya's convincing win, the teams left in their wake, and what this course (and sport) does to people.

www.arworldseries.com

www.facebook.com/arlivecoverage

www.rootstockracing.com

www.bendracing.com

]]>77e49f8c-f46d-476d-b509-27e88c742aa4Thu, 22 Sep 2022 22:24:00 -040001:13:47falsefull248482Dark Zone 47: Flash Podcast 2 - USARA Nationals with Team Psyched, Cherubini Brothers, Thisability Racing, and Only Mostly LostDark Zone 47: Flash Podcast 2 - USARA Nationals with Team Psyched, Cherubini Brothers, Thisability Racing, and Only Mostly LostThanks to the hard work of Dave Gedney and the magic of tracking devices, we were able to track down four teams while on the course at USARA Nationals. We made good use of their mandatory 5-minute media time to chat about the race and how it's going so far.

Thank you to the following teams: Team Psyched, Cherubini Brothers, Thisability Racing, and Only Mostly Lost for sharing their experience so far.

The Dark Zone is grateful to USARA for helping to make this unique episode happen

Go to www.usara.com for all race updates and information.

]]>Thanks to the hard work of Dave Gedney and the magic of tracking devices, we were able to track down four teams while on the course at USARA Nationals. We made good use of their mandatory 5-minute media time to chat about the race and how it's going so far.

Thank you to the following teams: Team Psyched, Cherubini Brothers, Thisability Racing, and Only Mostly Lost for sharing their experience so far.

The Dark Zone is grateful to USARA for helping to make this unique episode happen

Go to www.usara.com for all race updates and information.

]]>f2acb9c5-2549-44ec-9d05-bd824d1f1050Sat, 17 Sep 2022 08:11:00 -040024:37falsefull247472Dark Zone 46: USARA Nationals Flash Podcast 1 with Brent Freedland of Rootstock RacingDark Zone 46: USARA Nationals Flash Podcast 1 with Brent Freedland of Rootstock RacingThank you to Brent Freedland as we spend 10 minutes breaking down the action found in the first two stages (and little bit of the rest of the race) of the 2022 USARA Nationals. Head over www.usara.com for all their media coverage.

]]>Thank you to Brent Freedland as we spend 10 minutes breaking down the action found in the first two stages (and little bit of the rest of the race) of the 2022 USARA Nationals. Head over www.usara.com for all their media coverage.

]]>4cd5aee3-91d5-4124-b955-7edd394b2bfcFri, 16 Sep 2022 18:14:00 -040012:17falsefull246462The Dark Zone 45: USARA National Championship Flash Podcast with Brent Freedland of Rootstock RacingThe Dark Zone 45: USARA National Championship Flash Podcast with Brent Freedland of Rootstock RacingThank you to the hardest working AR analyst in the business Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing for sticking around AFTER our Worlds episode to offer his thoughts on the upcoming USARA National Championship Race being held in Bishop, CA this weekend. The terrain, the teams, and the big race picture are all discussed. Sit back and enjoy this flash episode of The Dark Zone.

Shownotes:

www.usara.com

]]>Thank you to the hardest working AR analyst in the business Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing for sticking around AFTER our Worlds episode to offer his thoughts on the upcoming USARA National Championship Race being held in Bishop, CA this weekend. The terrain, the teams, and the big race picture are all discussed. Sit back and enjoy this flash episode of The Dark Zone.

Shownotes:

www.usara.com

]]>a5b5b1a9-20bd-48d4-acad-adce3fb8e8edTue, 13 Sep 2022 21:20:00 -040025:12falsefull245452The Dark Zone 44: ARWS World Championship Predictions and Analysis with Craig Cook of AR Live Coverage and Brent Freedland of Rootstock RacingThe Dark Zone 44: ARWS World Championship Predictions and Analysis with Craig Cook of AR Live Coverage and Brent Freedland of Rootstock RacingThank you to Craig Cook of AR Live Coverage and Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing for coming onto this Flash Edition of The Dark Zone. Craig and Brent offer their thoughts on the upcoming AR World Series World Championship Race in Paraguay. They go deep on the teams, what information can be gleaned from the race schematic, and who they think will be on the podium after almost 100 hours of racing.

Shownotes

www.arworldseries.com

https://www.facebook.com/arlivecoverage

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>Thank you to Craig Cook of AR Live Coverage and Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing for coming onto this Flash Edition of The Dark Zone. Craig and Brent offer their thoughts on the upcoming AR World Series World Championship Race in Paraguay. They go deep on the teams, what information can be gleaned from the race schematic, and who they think will be on the podium after almost 100 hours of racing.

Shownotes

www.arworldseries.com

https://www.facebook.com/arlivecoverage

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>e578d349-1838-4c25-96c3-a023fd0cc5b3Mon, 12 Sep 2022 23:35:00 -040058:10falsefull244442The Dark Zone 43: Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road - Great Things Grow From Small BeginningsThe Dark Zone 43: Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road - Great Things Grow From Small BeginningsThank you to Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road for coming onto the show. A growing race organization, Broad Run's events have increased in popularity and challenge over time. Allen talks about the start of Broad Run, how it has grown organically, and what he has learned as both a race director and as a racer.

Thank you to Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains 5-Day Adventure Race (www.endlessmountainsar.com) for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone. Be sure to join Rootstock Racing this June for the 2nd edition of The Endless Mountains.

Shownotes:

www.broadrunoffroad.org - Be sure to check out all the Broad Run has to offer.

]]>Thank you to Allen Wagner of Broad Run Off Road for coming onto the show. A growing race organization, Broad Run's events have increased in popularity and challenge over time. Allen talks about the start of Broad Run, how it has grown organically, and what he has learned as both a race director and as a racer.

Thank you to Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains 5-Day Adventure Race (www.endlessmountainsar.com) for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone. Be sure to join Rootstock Racing this June for the 2nd edition of The Endless Mountains.

Shownotes:

www.broadrunoffroad.org - Be sure to check out all the Broad Run has to offer.

]]>7deedf8d-5f8b-46b7-8514-6d09f7414ba2Mon, 05 Sep 2022 12:49:00 -040001:13:22falsefull243432The Dark Zone 42: Liz and Michelle Faucher - The Team at Adventure Addicts Racing talks AR Origin Stories, Course Design, and How to Give People a Great Race ExperienceThe Dark Zone 42: Liz and Michelle Faucher - The Team at Adventure Addicts Racing talks AR Origin Stories, Course Design, and How to Give People a Great Race ExperienceThank you to Liz and Michelle Faucher for coming onto the show to talk about their introduction to AR, their work as Adventure Addicts Racing and how they work hard to bring new racers into the sport. Veteran racers themselves, Liz and Michelle go deep into their base of knowledge and share all of it with our audience. Enjoy!

Shownotes:

Adventure Addicts Racing - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

]]>Thank you to Liz and Michelle Faucher for coming onto the show to talk about their introduction to AR, their work as Adventure Addicts Racing and how they work hard to bring new racers into the sport. Veteran racers themselves, Liz and Michelle go deep into their base of knowledge and share all of it with our audience. Enjoy!

Shownotes:

Adventure Addicts Racing - https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/

]]>4074b149-8d63-43b3-b6e2-ae62c442bdc7Sun, 28 Aug 2022 15:31:00 -040001:01:37falsefull242422The Dark Zone 41: Yishai Horowitz - 2022 USARA Nationals Race Director/Course Designer Tells All! (Kinda)The Dark Zone 41: Yishai Horowitz - 2022 USARA Nationals Race Director/Course Designer Tells All! (Kinda)Thank you to Yishai Horowitz, Race Director for the 2022 USARA National Championships for coming onto the show to describe the course. He offers an overview of the terrain as well as the various disciplines just waiting out there for those fortunate enough to make it to California in September.

Nationals is now in the open registration period so gather your team, plan your travel, and get yourself to Nationals. Now is the time to race alongside the best of the best (cue Top Gun theme music).

Shownotes:

USARA Website - https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Fresno/USARAAdventureRaceNationalChampionship

Top Gun Theme - https://youtu.be/zCTJmXrgsFg

]]>Thank you to Yishai Horowitz, Race Director for the 2022 USARA National Championships for coming onto the show to describe the course. He offers an overview of the terrain as well as the various disciplines just waiting out there for those fortunate enough to make it to California in September.

Nationals is now in the open registration period so gather your team, plan your travel, and get yourself to Nationals. Now is the time to race alongside the best of the best (cue Top Gun theme music).

Shownotes:

USARA Website - https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Fresno/USARAAdventureRaceNationalChampionship

Top Gun Theme - https://youtu.be/zCTJmXrgsFg

]]>faa46d11-220e-47b9-bab6-ad94fa787e58Wed, 27 Jul 2022 16:26:00 -040055:15falsefull241412The Dark Zone 40: Katie Ferrington - Her Journey from Racer to Race Director and How AR Prepares One for Life's ChallengesThe Dark Zone 40: Katie Ferrington - Her Journey from Racer to Race Director and How AR Prepares One for Life's ChallengesOriginally recorded in May 2022, Katie Ferrington of Never Summer Race Productions joins The Dark Zone to talk about her entry into the sport, the big and small races that she has competed in, her growth into becoming a race director, and how AR prepared her for a recent life challenge. In this episode, listeners will learn about being a good teammate, where the best food is usually found (hint: in your teammate's pack), and how challenges, both big and small, can be overcome.

Shownotes:

Never Summer Race Productions - https://rockymountainadventureseries.com/never-summer-24hr/

Rocky Mountain Adventure Series - https://rockymountainadventureseries.com/

]]>Originally recorded in May 2022, Katie Ferrington of Never Summer Race Productions joins The Dark Zone to talk about her entry into the sport, the big and small races that she has competed in, her growth into becoming a race director, and how AR prepared her for a recent life challenge. In this episode, listeners will learn about being a good teammate, where the best food is usually found (hint: in your teammate's pack), and how challenges, both big and small, can be overcome.

Shownotes:

Never Summer Race Productions - https://rockymountainadventureseries.com/never-summer-24hr/

Rocky Mountain Adventure Series - https://rockymountainadventureseries.com/

]]>a4df1b87-90a4-4ecc-b251-0c6e6d8e2969Tue, 26 Jul 2022 05:54:00 -040048:46falsefull240402The Dark Zone 39/USARA FB Live: Rib Mountain Racing - Their Journey to the Podium at The Endless Mountains Adventure RaceThe Dark Zone 39/USARA FB Live: Rib Mountain Racing - Their Journey to the Podium at The Endless Mountains Adventure RaceThrough a collaboration between the United States Adventure Racing Association and The Dark Zone, we are proud to present this Facebook Live/Podcast Recording of Anna and Tim of Rib Mountain Racing. Alongside their two other teammates Jesse and Richard, they made it to the podium at Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains Adventure Race in June 2022.

Listeners can head over to USARA's Facebook page to watch the video of this podcast, but beware of Anna's post-race feet photos, or at least view them after dinner. Thank you to everyone for making this happen with special thanks to Dave Gedney, USARA's Media Director for pulling it all together.

Shownotes:

USARA Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/USadventureracing

Rib Mountain Racing - https://www.ribmountainadventurechallenge.com/

Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains - www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>Through a collaboration between the United States Adventure Racing Association and The Dark Zone, we are proud to present this Facebook Live/Podcast Recording of Anna and Tim of Rib Mountain Racing. Alongside their two other teammates Jesse and Richard, they made it to the podium at Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains Adventure Race in June 2022.

Listeners can head over to USARA's Facebook page to watch the video of this podcast, but beware of Anna's post-race feet photos, or at least view them after dinner. Thank you to everyone for making this happen with special thanks to Dave Gedney, USARA's Media Director for pulling it all together.

Shownotes:

USARA Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/USadventureracing

Rib Mountain Racing - https://www.ribmountainadventurechallenge.com/

Rootstock Racing's The Endless Mountains - www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>02257b72-a6ac-43d5-821e-13e170508d85Tue, 19 Jul 2022 20:22:00 -040001:01:52falsefull239392The Dark Zone 38: Igor Dorotic of AR Croatia - Big Course Design, Transitions Aplenty, and the Chance to Relive the RaceThe Dark Zone 38: Igor Dorotic of AR Croatia - Big Course Design, Transitions Aplenty, and the Chance to Relive the RaceOriginally recorded in May 2022, Igor Dorotic of AR Croatia (ARC) joins The Dark Zone to talk all things adventure racing. A well-known and respected race director, ARWS referee, and successful adventure racer in his own right, Igor tells us about AR Croatia, the course design (he hopes you like transitions), the ability for people to relive any ARC at their own pace, and what makes the best teams successful.

Shownotes:

AR Croatia and Relive Adventure - https://remarkable.events/

AR Croatia Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/adventureracecroatia/

AR Croatia Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/adventure.race.croatia/

Untamed New England (here's hoping) - http://www.untamedne.com/_/

]]>Originally recorded in May 2022, Igor Dorotic of AR Croatia (ARC) joins The Dark Zone to talk all things adventure racing. A well-known and respected race director, ARWS referee, and successful adventure racer in his own right, Igor tells us about AR Croatia, the course design (he hopes you like transitions), the ability for people to relive any ARC at their own pace, and what makes the best teams successful.

Shownotes:

AR Croatia and Relive Adventure - https://remarkable.events/

AR Croatia Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/adventureracecroatia/

AR Croatia Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/adventure.race.croatia/

Untamed New England (here's hoping) - http://www.untamedne.com/_/

]]>645174ec-332f-40ca-90fe-393743cb1393Mon, 11 Jul 2022 22:05:00 -040001:01:50falsefull238382The Dark Zone 37: Lars Bukkehave - Denmark's Great Dane, Champion Adventure Racer, and All-Around Evangelist for AR - Joins TDZ for the First but not the Last TimeThe Dark Zone 37: Lars Bukkehave - Denmark's Great Dane, Champion Adventure Racer, and All-Around Evangelist for AR - Joins TDZ for the First but not the Last TimeToday we are joined by Lars Bukkehave for an episode originally recorded in April 2022.

A stalwart in the world of adventure racing, Lars has raced all over the world and has the stories to prove it. Today he regales us with his origin story, how he grew into being a world-class adventure racer, and his sleep and nutrition strategies. This is one of the longer episodes of TDZ, and we could have gone even longer.

Following the initial recording, Lars sent an audio file with even more information on his upcoming race directing and other events that he's planning. Be sure to stick around for that. Since recording this episode, Lars was struck with a severe case of hypothermia at Expedition Oregon and had to withdraw from the race, but then came back as a member of Team Bend Racing to win the inaugural Endless Mountains Adventure Race with a winning time of just over 110 hours this past June. He's a human Weeble Wobble (Shout out to the 70's kids out there).

Not only does he love the sport, but he cares deeply about newer racers and how best to bring new people to our races. He'll most certainly be a return guest to TDZ. Sit back and enjoy!

]]>Today we are joined by Lars Bukkehave for an episode originally recorded in April 2022.

A stalwart in the world of adventure racing, Lars has raced all over the world and has the stories to prove it. Today he regales us with his origin story, how he grew into being a world-class adventure racer, and his sleep and nutrition strategies. This is one of the longer episodes of TDZ, and we could have gone even longer.

Following the initial recording, Lars sent an audio file with even more information on his upcoming race directing and other events that he's planning. Be sure to stick around for that. Since recording this episode, Lars was struck with a severe case of hypothermia at Expedition Oregon and had to withdraw from the race, but then came back as a member of Team Bend Racing to win the inaugural Endless Mountains Adventure Race with a winning time of just over 110 hours this past June. He's a human Weeble Wobble (Shout out to the 70's kids out there).

Not only does he love the sport, but he cares deeply about newer racers and how best to bring new people to our races. He'll most certainly be a return guest to TDZ. Sit back and enjoy!

]]>e065146a-7b7f-4440-8b0e-4e8308718938Mon, 04 Jul 2022 12:24:00 -040001:32:07falsefull237372The Dark Zone 36: Team Hunting Bigfoot - The Endless Mountains, Racing Together for the First Time, and Showing Us How It Is DoneThe Dark Zone 36: Team Hunting Bigfoot - The Endless Mountains, Racing Together for the First Time, and Showing Us How It Is DoneToday we are joined by Team Hunting Bigfoot.

A team with a variety of AR experience and skills, Hunting Bigfoot took a gamble and used the Endless Mountains Adventure Race as their first race together. Listen in as they recount their five-day journey through the rigorous and unrelenting terrain of Western Pennsylvania. Their journey, teamwork, and how they overcame challenges along the way should serve as a blueprint for how a solid mid-pack team can do it right.

Learn more about the Endless Mountains at www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>Today we are joined by Team Hunting Bigfoot.

A team with a variety of AR experience and skills, Hunting Bigfoot took a gamble and used the Endless Mountains Adventure Race as their first race together. Listen in as they recount their five-day journey through the rigorous and unrelenting terrain of Western Pennsylvania. Their journey, teamwork, and how they overcame challenges along the way should serve as a blueprint for how a solid mid-pack team can do it right.

Learn more about the Endless Mountains at www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>49618158-81bc-4c36-b62b-f9b7f8d1f7daFri, 01 Jul 2022 06:22:00 -040001:07:58falsefull136361The Dark Zone 35: Rachel Nolan - Irish Adventure Racer, Bikepacking Champion, and African Donkey WhispererThe Dark Zone 35: Rachel Nolan - Irish Adventure Racer, Bikepacking Champion, and African Donkey WhispererToday we are joined by Rachel Nolan. Rachel came to The Dark Zone's attention following this year's Expedition: Africa. Her experience, energy, and accent helped to carry her team throughout the long, tough course. Rachel shares that experience, her success as a bikepacking champion, and she eventually reminds us to get to her training. Thank you to Rachel for spending so much time with us.

You can learn more about Rachel and her personal guide service at https://www.facebook.com/RachelsIrishAdventures/

]]>Today we are joined by Rachel Nolan. Rachel came to The Dark Zone's attention following this year's Expedition: Africa. Her experience, energy, and accent helped to carry her team throughout the long, tough course. Rachel shares that experience, her success as a bikepacking champion, and she eventually reminds us to get to her training. Thank you to Rachel for spending so much time with us.

You can learn more about Rachel and her personal guide service at https://www.facebook.com/RachelsIrishAdventures/

]]>52f06fbd-ed33-4eb5-a8b3-b597bd5d4086Mon, 27 Jun 2022 05:04:00 -040001:04:58falsefull135351The Dark Zone 34: Zoe F. and Her Thoughts on Adventure Racing, Teamwork, The Endless Mountains and 3rd GradeThe Dark Zone 34: Zoe F. and Her Thoughts on Adventure Racing, Teamwork, The Endless Mountains and 3rd GradeToday we are joined by Zoe F. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A rising 3rd grader, it is safe to say that Zoe, alongside her little brother Simon, has attended more adventure races than any other child in the world. In this episode, she shares her thoughts on teamwork, adventure racing, and her upcoming school year. Thank you to Zoe for taking the time out of her preparation for Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains to spend some time with the Dark Zone.

www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>Today we are joined by Zoe F. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A rising 3rd grader, it is safe to say that Zoe, alongside her little brother Simon, has attended more adventure races than any other child in the world. In this episode, she shares her thoughts on teamwork, adventure racing, and her upcoming school year. Thank you to Zoe for taking the time out of her preparation for Rootstock Racing's Endless Mountains to spend some time with the Dark Zone.

www.endlessmountainsar.com

]]>cf045ec9-04bb-46cf-a654-d000816bcb0aTue, 21 Jun 2022 05:20:00 -040010:13falsefull134341The Dark Zone 33: Rootstock Racing's Brent Freedland: Dotwatcher Extrordinaire - Lessons from Expedition Oregon and the Upcoming Endless MountainsThe Dark Zone 33: Rootstock Racing's Brent Freedland: Dotwatcher Extrordinaire - Lessons from Expedition Oregon and the Upcoming Endless MountainsToday we are joined by Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing. A previous guest on The Dark Zone, Brent shares his recent dotwatching experience from Expedition: Oregon and what the race taught him about long distance racing, how the teams did (or didn’t hold it together out there), and how Bend Racing is trying to bring the sport forward. This is all in advance of Rootstock Racing’s Inaugural Endless Mountains Adventure Race which is right around the corner. 

Special thanks to Strong Machine Racing for sponsoring today’s episode. Their premier event - the Maine Summer Adventure Race - is right around the corner and you can learn more about them and their races at www.strongmachinear.com. You’ll have a blast as they take you by foot, bike, and boat to the far corners of Maine. 

Enjoy today’s episode and thank you Brent for joining The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

Strong Machine - www.strongmachinear.com

]]>Today we are joined by Brent Freedland of Rootstock Racing. A previous guest on The Dark Zone, Brent shares his recent dotwatching experience from Expedition: Oregon and what the race taught him about long distance racing, how the teams did (or didn’t hold it together out there), and how Bend Racing is trying to bring the sport forward. This is all in advance of Rootstock Racing’s Inaugural Endless Mountains Adventure Race which is right around the corner. 

Special thanks to Strong Machine Racing for sponsoring today’s episode. Their premier event - the Maine Summer Adventure Race - is right around the corner and you can learn more about them and their races at www.strongmachinear.com. You’ll have a blast as they take you by foot, bike, and boat to the far corners of Maine. 

Enjoy today’s episode and thank you Brent for joining The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

Rootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

Strong Machine - www.strongmachinear.com

]]>cffac155-6a32-4679-898a-7f459757b470Mon, 13 Jun 2022 20:21:00 -040034:35falsefull133331The Dark Zone 32: Dave Ashley - Adventure Racer, Veteran, and the First Kidney Donor to climb all Seven SummitsThe Dark Zone 32: Dave Ashley - Adventure Racer, Veteran, and the First Kidney Donor to climb all Seven SummitsAdventure Racer, Military Veteran, and Kidney Donor Dave Ashley joins the show to talk about his AR career, but more importantly his decision to donate a kidney to a colleague, and then use his ascent of The Seven Summits to show that kidney donors can go on to live lives of challenge and adventure. His journey wasn't easy and success wasn't guaranteed, and Dave walks us through the highs and lows both literally and figuratively. It was our honor to have him on as a guest.

https://m.facebook.com/AdventureKidney/ - AdventureKidney

The Himalyan Times -

https://thehimalayantimes.com/kathmandu/kidney-donor-us-army-veteran-sets-record-scaling-mt-everest

Seven Summits: Dave Ashley - Living Donor Games

https://www.livingdonorgames.org/athletes/sponsored-events-athletes/donor-athlete-profile-dave-ashley/

Find out if you're qualified to donate a kidney:

https://www.kidneyregistry.org/for-donors/am-i-qualified-to-donate-a-kidney/

]]>Adventure Racer, Military Veteran, and Kidney Donor Dave Ashley joins the show to talk about his AR career, but more importantly his decision to donate a kidney to a colleague, and then use his ascent of The Seven Summits to show that kidney donors can go on to live lives of challenge and adventure. His journey wasn't easy and success wasn't guaranteed, and Dave walks us through the highs and lows both literally and figuratively. It was our honor to have him on as a guest.

https://m.facebook.com/AdventureKidney/ - AdventureKidney

The Himalyan Times -

https://thehimalayantimes.com/kathmandu/kidney-donor-us-army-veteran-sets-record-scaling-mt-everest

Seven Summits: Dave Ashley - Living Donor Games

https://www.livingdonorgames.org/athletes/sponsored-events-athletes/donor-athlete-profile-dave-ashley/

Find out if you're qualified to donate a kidney:

https://www.kidneyregistry.org/for-donors/am-i-qualified-to-donate-a-kidney/

]]>f91f6edd-aa04-4590-b9bc-7c5e7d4299a7Tue, 31 May 2022 20:06:00 -040058:22falsefull132321The Dark Zone 31: Flash Episode - Team Peak Pursuit Straight From Their Finish at Expedition OregonThe Dark Zone 31: Flash Episode - Team Peak Pursuit Straight From Their Finish at Expedition OregonBen, Tom, and Jasper of Team Peak Pursuit join the show just hours after their finish at Expedition Oregon. In this Flash Episode, they recount their journey, how their preparation, teamwork, and communication helped along the way, and how much they have grown to love adventure racing. How did they do in the race? Give a listen to find out.

Thank you to Adventure Addicts Racing (https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/) for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Adventure Addicts offers a wide variety of events in Maryland and Virginia. Keep an eye out for information about their next race, The Buff Betty, coming this September 24th.

]]>Ben, Tom, and Jasper of Team Peak Pursuit join the show just hours after their finish at Expedition Oregon. In this Flash Episode, they recount their journey, how their preparation, teamwork, and communication helped along the way, and how much they have grown to love adventure racing. How did they do in the race? Give a listen to find out.

Thank you to Adventure Addicts Racing (https://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/) for sponsoring this episode of The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast. Adventure Addicts offers a wide variety of events in Maryland and Virginia. Keep an eye out for information about their next race, The Buff Betty, coming this September 24th.

]]>17aec0a4-d4c4-49dd-aa24-67d85be2a9dfSun, 15 May 2022 20:05:00 -040029:42falsefull131311The Dark Zone 30 - Team Fear Youth - GODZone Finishers, Teenage Fonts of Wisdom, and Overall Great RacersThe Dark Zone 30 - Team Fear Youth - GODZone Finishers, Teenage Fonts of Wisdom, and Overall Great RacersNew Zealanders Molly and Fynn join the show to talk about their recent GODZone experience, their preparation for such a long and ambitious course, and what they learned during the race. All of this is delivered in that wonderful and positive New Zealand way that will have you looking at flights to the island nation. Special thanks to Team Bend Racing's Jason Magness for joining the episode.

Thank you to The New York Adventure Racing Association (www.nyara.org) for sponsoring today's episode. NYARA offers a variety of races and other events in and around the New York and New Jersey area. Special mention goes to their premier race "The Longest Day" - a 24-hour race and a USARA Regional Championship.

Shownotes:

https://godzoneadventure.com/

www.nyara.org

]]>New Zealanders Molly and Fynn join the show to talk about their recent GODZone experience, their preparation for such a long and ambitious course, and what they learned during the race. All of this is delivered in that wonderful and positive New Zealand way that will have you looking at flights to the island nation. Special thanks to Team Bend Racing's Jason Magness for joining the episode.

Thank you to The New York Adventure Racing Association (www.nyara.org) for sponsoring today's episode. NYARA offers a variety of races and other events in and around the New York and New Jersey area. Special mention goes to their premier race "The Longest Day" - a 24-hour race and a USARA Regional Championship.

Shownotes:

https://godzoneadventure.com/

www.nyara.org

]]>c7fd515f-ffb2-4dcd-9c71-82bf0f7c9cefSat, 07 May 2022 19:28:00 -040001:19:34falsefull130301The Dark Zone 29 - Eric Caravella of Packrafting Adventures - Small Boats, Big Adventures and the Growth of a New(ish) AR DisciplineThe Dark Zone 29 - Eric Caravella of Packrafting Adventures - Small Boats, Big Adventures and the Growth of a New(ish) AR DisciplineEric Caravella of Packrafting Adventures joins the show today to talk packrafts, their use in adventure racing, and the journey that brought him to be the founder of Packrafting Adventures. Thank you to the United States Adventure Racing Association for partnering with The Dark Zone to offer a playlist of companion videos.

Link to the companion video playlist - USARA Packrafting Video - https://tinyurl.com/USARAPackraft

Shownotes:

Packrafting Adventures - www.packraftingadventures.com

The United States Adventure Racing Association - www.usara.com

Eastern Mountain Wilderness Challenge - https://www.packraftingadventures.com/emwc

Aquabound paddles - https://aquabound.com/

Werner Paddles - https://wernerpaddles.com/

Alpacka Rafts - https://alnk.to/58k84XE

Hyperlite Mountain Gear - https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/

Astral PFDs - https://astraldesigns.com/

EEZYCUT Cutting Tools - https://eezycut.com/

Northwest River Supplies (NRS) - https://www.nrs.com/

American Canoe Association - https://americancanoe.org/

Alaska Mountain Wilderness Classic - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Mountain_Wilderness_Classic

Grant Killian - http://www.untamedne.com

Dick Griffith - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AYLNETY/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Luc Mehl - https://thingstolucat.com/

Roman Dial- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S1TFTRY/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

For adventure mapping: - Caltopo.com

]]>Eric Caravella of Packrafting Adventures joins the show today to talk packrafts, their use in adventure racing, and the journey that brought him to be the founder of Packrafting Adventures. Thank you to the United States Adventure Racing Association for partnering with The Dark Zone to offer a playlist of companion videos.

Link to the companion video playlist - USARA Packrafting Video - https://tinyurl.com/USARAPackraft

Shownotes:

Packrafting Adventures - www.packraftingadventures.com

The United States Adventure Racing Association - www.usara.com

Eastern Mountain Wilderness Challenge - https://www.packraftingadventures.com/emwc

Aquabound paddles - https://aquabound.com/

Werner Paddles - https://wernerpaddles.com/

Alpacka Rafts - https://alnk.to/58k84XE

Hyperlite Mountain Gear - https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/

Astral PFDs - https://astraldesigns.com/

EEZYCUT Cutting Tools - https://eezycut.com/

Northwest River Supplies (NRS) - https://www.nrs.com/

American Canoe Association - https://americancanoe.org/

Alaska Mountain Wilderness Classic - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Mountain_Wilderness_Classic

Grant Killian - http://www.untamedne.com

Dick Griffith - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AYLNETY/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Luc Mehl - https://thingstolucat.com/

Roman Dial- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S1TFTRY/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

For adventure mapping: - Caltopo.com

]]>9b7aef03-c241-4374-9214-8ab515a38b11Sat, 30 Apr 2022 05:58:00 -040001:11:31falsefull129291The Dark Zone 28: Flash Episode - Rootstock Racing Fresh Off Their Win at the Shenandoah EpicThe Dark Zone 28: Flash Episode - Rootstock Racing Fresh Off Their Win at the Shenandoah EpicToday we are joined by Rootstock Racing's Karyn DuLaney, Joel Ford, and Paul Miller for a Flash Episode of the Dark Zone. They are fresh off their win at this past weekend's Shenandoah Epic 24-hour Adventure Race. Their highs, lows, strategy, nutrition, and accidentally paddle to the side of a teammate's head are all covered during this podcast. Thank you to them for joining us on short notice.

Shownotes:

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>Today we are joined by Rootstock Racing's Karyn DuLaney, Joel Ford, and Paul Miller for a Flash Episode of the Dark Zone. They are fresh off their win at this past weekend's Shenandoah Epic 24-hour Adventure Race. Their highs, lows, strategy, nutrition, and accidentally paddle to the side of a teammate's head are all covered during this podcast. Thank you to them for joining us on short notice.

Shownotes:

www.rootstockracing.com

]]>d7da3177-fe3b-4adf-ac63-b7bf1371e09eWed, 27 Apr 2022 22:21:00 -040001:01:11falsefull128281The Dark Zone 27: Jesse Tubb - Adventure Racer, Active Duty U.S. Soldier, and Founder of G.R.I.T. AdventuresThe Dark Zone 27: Jesse Tubb - Adventure Racer, Active Duty U.S. Soldier, and Founder of G.R.I.T. AdventuresToday's guest is Jesse Tubb. Alongside being an experienced and well-traveled adventure racer (as well as a big fan of a Big Mac in transition), Jesse is also the founder of G.R.I.T. Adventures which strives to bring AR to younger racers. This is the longest TDZ to date, and be sure to stick around for the post-podcast bonus content.

Visit G.R.I.T. here - https://www.grit-adventures.com/

]]>Today's guest is Jesse Tubb. Alongside being an experienced and well-traveled adventure racer (as well as a big fan of a Big Mac in transition), Jesse is also the founder of G.R.I.T. Adventures which strives to bring AR to younger racers. This is the longest TDZ to date, and be sure to stick around for the post-podcast bonus content.

Visit G.R.I.T. here - https://www.grit-adventures.com/

]]>8c3e57ac-c9a3-46fc-914b-6b359f0dd50dMon, 18 Apr 2022 07:41:00 -040001:33:35falsefull127271The Dark Zone 26: Donovan Sims - South African Rugby Player Turned Adventure Racer, Cancer Survivor and an Oracle of Adventure Racing WisdomThe Dark Zone 26: Donovan Sims - South African Rugby Player Turned Adventure Racer, Cancer Survivor and an Oracle of Adventure Racing WisdomToday's guest is South African Adventure Racer Donovan Sims. A longtime racer (and former rugby player), Don shares his experience and wisdom gleaned from his many races. Navigation, nutrition, sleep strategy and how to be a good teammate are discussed. Most importantly, he goes deep on his diagnosis and recovery from leukemia.

]]>Today's guest is South African Adventure Racer Donovan Sims. A longtime racer (and former rugby player), Don shares his experience and wisdom gleaned from his many races. Navigation, nutrition, sleep strategy and how to be a good teammate are discussed. Most importantly, he goes deep on his diagnosis and recovery from leukemia.

]]>023e053a-9f0f-44b2-8949-00b979f2cf6eSun, 03 Apr 2022 21:22:00 -040046:14falsefull126261The Dark Zone 25: Heidi Muller - Adventure Racing World Series CEO, Adventure Racer, RD, and the Most Positive Person on the PlanetThe Dark Zone 25: Heidi Muller - Adventure Racing World Series CEO, Adventure Racer, RD, and the Most Positive Person on the PlanetToday's guest is ARWS CEO Heidi Muller. Longtime Race Director, Adventure Racer, and now CEO of the ARWS, Heidi shares her journey from racer to RD, and how the ARWS is working to support aspiring race directors. Be sure to follow the 10th Anniversary of Expedition Africa: Lesotho coming April 2022

Shownotes:

Expedition Africa - http://www.expafrica.net/Events/Expedition-Africa-500-km-Lesotho-2022

Adventure Racing World Series - https://arworldseries.com/

]]>Today's guest is ARWS CEO Heidi Muller. Longtime Race Director, Adventure Racer, and now CEO of the ARWS, Heidi shares her journey from racer to RD, and how the ARWS is working to support aspiring race directors. Be sure to follow the 10th Anniversary of Expedition Africa: Lesotho coming April 2022

Shownotes:

Expedition Africa - http://www.expafrica.net/Events/Expedition-Africa-500-km-Lesotho-2022

Adventure Racing World Series - https://arworldseries.com/

]]>aa8a954b-0c0f-4760-ad15-1abcceb095e9Sun, 20 Mar 2022 16:40:00 -040059:00falsefull125251The Dark Zone 24: Jen Segger - They Call Her Seegs: Coach, Racer, and Experienced AR Veteran.The Dark Zone 24: Jen Segger - They Call Her Seegs: Coach, Racer, and Experienced AR Veteran.Today's guest is Jen 'Seegs" Segger. Longtime AR racer, coach, and all-around font of knowledge and wisdom. Today's episode goes deep on the finer points for the newer racer including training, foot care, sleep strategy, and how not to sleep in the jungle. (Spoiler Alert - Don't lay on the ground).

TDZ listeners can visit https://www.jensegger.com/sprint-adventure-race-course and enter the code DARKZONE for a listener-only discount. Thank you to Jen for making that available to the fans of TDZ.

]]>Today's guest is Jen 'Seegs" Segger. Longtime AR racer, coach, and all-around font of knowledge and wisdom. Today's episode goes deep on the finer points for the newer racer including training, foot care, sleep strategy, and how not to sleep in the jungle. (Spoiler Alert - Don't lay on the ground).

TDZ listeners can visit https://www.jensegger.com/sprint-adventure-race-course and enter the code DARKZONE for a listener-only discount. Thank you to Jen for making that available to the fans of TDZ.

]]>9b9bc591-7edf-4342-8c0e-a5f695bd49ddSun, 06 Mar 2022 10:02:00 -040001:15:30falsefull124241The Dark Zone 23: Flash Edition: Jason Magness & Darren Steinbach of Team Bend Racing Live from the Finish of AR PanamaThe Dark Zone 23: Flash Edition: Jason Magness & Darren Steinbach of Team Bend Racing Live from the Finish of AR PanamaToday's guests are Jason Magness and Darren Steinbach of Team Bend Racing

As listeners will remember from episode #22, recorded just three days ago on February 22, 2022, Team Bend Racing's Darren Steinbach, who is providing support for the team, called in live from AR Panama to give a mid-race update. Today’s episode is a follow-up and has both Darren and Bend Racing’s Jason Magness. At the time of this recording, the team finished the race just a few hours early, but Jason is able to pull it all together and give us a great overview of the race and Bend’s experience.

The race was a wild time for everyone and thank you to Darren and Jason for joining The Dark Zone.

Shownotes:

Darren Steinbach Instagram - @TravelingDarren

]]>Today's guests are Jason Magness and Darren Steinbach of Team Bend Racing

As listeners will remember from episode #22, recorded just three days ago on February 22, 2022, Team Bend Racing's Darren Steinbach, who is providing support for the team, called in live from AR Panama to give a mid-race update. Today’s episode is a follow-up and has both Darren and Bend Racing’s Jason Magness. At the time of this recording, the team finished the race just a few hours early, but Jason is able to pull it all together and give us a great overview of the race and Bend’s experience.

The race was a wild time for everyone and thank you to Darren and Jason for joining The Dark Zone.

Shownotes:

Darren Steinbach Instagram - @TravelingDarren

]]>cb53ed2d-4f8e-4511-9d06-48b9142f317cFri, 25 Feb 2022 04:42:00 -040045:13falsefull123231The Dark Zone 22 (2/22/22!) Flash Edition: Darren Steinbach Live From Panama AR with an On The Course Live UpdateThe Dark Zone 22 (2/22/22!) Flash Edition: Darren Steinbach Live From Panama AR with an On The Course Live UpdateToday's guest is Darren Steinbach of Team Bend Racing live from Panama AR. Darren is providing race and media support for Team Bend Racing, and he spends some time sharing the team's experience so far, the unique events of the race, and an on-the-course overview of how it is going so far for all the competitors.

You can follow Darren's updates via his Instagram feed - @TravelingDarren - as well as all the Team Bend Racing Social Media Channels.

You can see the full podcast archive at www.ardarkzone.com

Thank you for being a listener!

]]>Today's guest is Darren Steinbach of Team Bend Racing live from Panama AR. Darren is providing race and media support for Team Bend Racing, and he spends some time sharing the team's experience so far, the unique events of the race, and an on-the-course overview of how it is going so far for all the competitors.

You can follow Darren's updates via his Instagram feed - @TravelingDarren - as well as all the Team Bend Racing Social Media Channels.

You can see the full podcast archive at www.ardarkzone.com

Thank you for being a listener!

]]>8edda11d-4068-4527-b1bd-4043be029369Tue, 22 Feb 2022 08:09:00 -040022:42falsefull122221The Dark Zone 21 (Blackjack Edition): Barbara Phipps - Racer, Mom, Teammate, and Her Personal Cannonball Into The Deep End of Adventure RacingThe Dark Zone 21 (Blackjack Edition): Barbara Phipps - Racer, Mom, Teammate, and Her Personal Cannonball Into The Deep End of Adventure RacingToday’s guest is racer Barbara Phipps. A newer racer, Barbara shares with us her dive into adventure racing, how it has helped her to overcome her challenges, and how much she has grown as a person and a teammate. This is a deeply personal episode of The Dark Zone, and thank you to Barbara for her openness and honesty. 

You can see the full podcast archive at www.ardarkzone.com

Thank you for being a listener!

]]>Today’s guest is racer Barbara Phipps. A newer racer, Barbara shares with us her dive into adventure racing, how it has helped her to overcome her challenges, and how much she has grown as a person and a teammate. This is a deeply personal episode of The Dark Zone, and thank you to Barbara for her openness and honesty. 

You can see the full podcast archive at www.ardarkzone.com

Thank you for being a listener!

]]>6239ffaf-5cee-48ef-9935-5dc7de75415dSun, 06 Feb 2022 07:14:00 -040001:08:50falsefull121211The Dark Zone 20: USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison and The 2022 USARA National ChampionshipsThe Dark Zone 20: USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison and The 2022 USARA National ChampionshipsToday’s guest is the United States Adventure Racing Association Executive Director Michael Garrison. He joins The Dark Zone to walk our listeners through the revised entry process for USARA Nationals, the role of the team ranking system, and he shares some thoughts on the future of Adventure Racing.

Shownotes:

United States Adventure Racing Association - www.usara.com

]]>Today’s guest is the United States Adventure Racing Association Executive Director Michael Garrison. He joins The Dark Zone to walk our listeners through the revised entry process for USARA Nationals, the role of the team ranking system, and he shares some thoughts on the future of Adventure Racing.

Shownotes:

United States Adventure Racing Association - www.usara.com

]]>aa8e1488-7bc8-4f98-be6b-f7240e245ed9Sat, 29 Jan 2022 15:38:00 -040041:27falsefull120201The Dark Zone 19: Chelsey Magness - Yogaslacking Bend Racing Team Member, Endurance Mama, Adventure Racer, and National Mountain Bike ChampionThe Dark Zone 19: Chelsey Magness - Yogaslacking Bend Racing Team Member, Endurance Mama, Adventure Racer, and National Mountain Bike ChampionChelsey Magness joins The Dark Zone to talk about her introduction to adventure racing, the allure of free pizza and yoga and how it was too much to resist, her itinerant bicycle/yoga lifestyle and how it led her to champion adventure racing and mountain biking, and how her personal challenges around family and children have opened the door for her to help others.

Show Notes:

www.endurancemama.com

www.bendracing.com

]]>Chelsey Magness joins The Dark Zone to talk about her introduction to adventure racing, the allure of free pizza and yoga and how it was too much to resist, her itinerant bicycle/yoga lifestyle and how it led her to champion adventure racing and mountain biking, and how her personal challenges around family and children have opened the door for her to help others.

Show Notes:

www.endurancemama.com

www.bendracing.com

]]>8e135519-2a6d-4a87-89fc-caeb831ad599Wed, 26 Jan 2022 05:35:00 -040001:22:02falsefull119191The Dark Zone 18: Jay Petervary - Champion Bikepacking Ultra-Endurance Cyclist, Former Adventure Racer, and Dean of Common Sense UniversityThe Dark Zone 18: Jay Petervary - Champion Bikepacking Ultra-Endurance Cyclist, Former Adventure Racer, and Dean of Common Sense UniversityJay Petervary joins The Dark Zone to talk about his introduction to Adventure Racing, what he learned racing alongside his teammates, his transition into a champion bikepacking ultra-endurance cyclist, and how he finds more fulfillment today in helping others make it to the start and finish line than in his own racing.

Show Notes:

Website - www.jaypetervary.com

]]>Jay Petervary joins The Dark Zone to talk about his introduction to Adventure Racing, what he learned racing alongside his teammates, his transition into a champion bikepacking ultra-endurance cyclist, and how he finds more fulfillment today in helping others make it to the start and finish line than in his own racing.

Show Notes:

Website - www.jaypetervary.com

]]>91127ccb-8954-4652-87c8-d335b141ed19Sat, 08 Jan 2022 15:01:00 -040001:02:37falsefull118181The Dark Zone 17: Sarah Goldman - Outward Bound Team Member, Expedition Adventure Racer, Coach, and Walking Motivational SpeechThe Dark Zone 17: Sarah Goldman - Outward Bound Team Member, Expedition Adventure Racer, Coach, and Walking Motivational SpeechSarah Goldman joins The Dark Zone to talk about her introduction to AR, what she has learned from being an Outward Bound team member, her favorite podcasts and short films (for when she's, believe it or not, unmotivated), and why challenge and strife are necessary to building strong relationships in racing and in life.

Show Notes:

Ferrington Family Fire Relief - https://www.gofundme.com/f/ferrington-family-fire-relief

Outward Bound - https://www.outwardbound.org/

The Dirtbag Diaries - https://dirtbagdiaries.com/

Sarah Hueniken - https://www.instagram.com/huens/?hl=en

Cody Townsend - https://www.instagram.com/codytownsend/?hl=en

Will Gadd - https://www.instagram.com/realwillgadd/?hl=en

]]>Sarah Goldman joins The Dark Zone to talk about her introduction to AR, what she has learned from being an Outward Bound team member, her favorite podcasts and short films (for when she's, believe it or not, unmotivated), and why challenge and strife are necessary to building strong relationships in racing and in life.

Show Notes:

Ferrington Family Fire Relief - https://www.gofundme.com/f/ferrington-family-fire-relief

Outward Bound - https://www.outwardbound.org/

The Dirtbag Diaries - https://dirtbagdiaries.com/

Sarah Hueniken - https://www.instagram.com/huens/?hl=en

Cody Townsend - https://www.instagram.com/codytownsend/?hl=en

Will Gadd - https://www.instagram.com/realwillgadd/?hl=en

]]>95d22bd8-bf80-420a-b22d-763a0a533ad9Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:47:00 -040001:03:03falsefull117171The Dark Zone (Sweet) 16: Shawn Lemaster - RD for 361Adventures.com, Breakdown Bikepacking Route Creator, and All-Around Adventure GuyThe Dark Zone (Sweet) 16: Shawn Lemaster - RD for 361Adventures.com, Breakdown Bikepacking Route Creator, and All-Around Adventure GuyShawn Lemaster of www.361adventures.com joins The Dark Zone to talk about The Fig, his racing career, the Breakdown Bikepacking Route, and all the things that adventure racing and bikepacking have taught him over the years. We go deep into not only AR but the idea of adventure in general, doing so with friends, and how much we both hate busy roads at night.

Show Notes:

The Fig Adventure Race - http://361adventures.com/fig

Breakdown Bikepacking Route - http://361adventures.com/breakdowning

]]>Shawn Lemaster of www.361adventures.com joins The Dark Zone to talk about The Fig, his racing career, the Breakdown Bikepacking Route, and all the things that adventure racing and bikepacking have taught him over the years. We go deep into not only AR but the idea of adventure in general, doing so with friends, and how much we both hate busy roads at night.

Show Notes:

The Fig Adventure Race - http://361adventures.com/fig

Breakdown Bikepacking Route - http://361adventures.com/breakdowning

]]>b4ffb94b-feff-43a3-a093-aeec0109576dTue, 28 Dec 2021 14:14:00 -040001:04:51falsefull116161The Dark Zone 15: Dan Staudigel - Bend Racing's Resident Philosopher, Dedicated Teammate, and One Man Hype Squad.The Dark Zone 15: Dan Staudigel - Bend Racing's Resident Philosopher, Dedicated Teammate, and One Man Hype Squad.Dan Staudigel - a stalwart companion for all things Bend Racing - joins The dARk Zone to talk about racing, life, how to be a good teammate, and what it's like to find yourself in your underwear in Fiji. Be sure to check out Dan's website - www.orienteer.co - as well.

Thank you to TanZ Navigation for joining as a sponsor of the dARk Zone. Visit them at www.tanznavigation.com. Email Brian@ardarkzone.com to enter a lottery to win a copy of Mark Lattanzi's book Squiggly Lines.

Show Notes

Anti-Fragile Book

The Adventure Race World Series

Eco-Challenge:Fiji

Backyard Ultra

]]>Dan Staudigel - a stalwart companion for all things Bend Racing - joins The dARk Zone to talk about racing, life, how to be a good teammate, and what it's like to find yourself in your underwear in Fiji. Be sure to check out Dan's website - www.orienteer.co - as well.

Thank you to TanZ Navigation for joining as a sponsor of the dARk Zone. Visit them at www.tanznavigation.com. Email Brian@ardarkzone.com to enter a lottery to win a copy of Mark Lattanzi's book Squiggly Lines.

Show Notes

Anti-Fragile Book

The Adventure Race World Series

Eco-Challenge:Fiji

Backyard Ultra

]]>c948f394-b2f5-468e-baf0-c46ead2b5486Tue, 14 Dec 2021 04:58:00 -040001:19:26falsefull115151The Dark Zone 14: Rootstock Racing - The Endless Mountains ARWS Demonstration Race, Working with Others, and Helping to Grow the SportThe Dark Zone 14: Rootstock Racing - The Endless Mountains ARWS Demonstration Race, Working with Others, and Helping to Grow the SportRootstock Racing's Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland join The Dark Zone to talk about their new 5-day adventure race - The Endless Mountains - an ARWS Demonstration Race for 2022, partnering with Bend Racing and Expedition Canada, and how communicating and working together helps to grow the sport.

Show notes:

Check out Expedition Alaska - https://www.amazon.com/Expedition-Alaska-Hyperion-XIII-Productions/dp/B07QY95QMT

The Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com


]]>Rootstock Racing's Abby Perkiss and Brent Freedland join The Dark Zone to talk about their new 5-day adventure race - The Endless Mountains - an ARWS Demonstration Race for 2022, partnering with Bend Racing and Expedition Canada, and how communicating and working together helps to grow the sport.

Show notes:

Check out Expedition Alaska - https://www.amazon.com/Expedition-Alaska-Hyperion-XIII-Productions/dp/B07QY95QMT

The Endless Mountains Adventure Race - www.endlessmountainsar.com


]]>b114e644-2c5b-4703-a835-78a5a2afa3edTue, 30 Nov 2021 22:09:00 -040040:46falsefull114141The Dark Zone (Lucky) 13: Mari Chandler - National Champion, International Racer, and Teammate To AllThe Dark Zone (Lucky) 13: Mari Chandler - National Champion, International Racer, and Teammate To AllSearch many a race start list and you'll be sure to see Mari's name. One of America's most prolific racers, Mari brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to The Dark Zone. Mari tells us about her introduction to Adventure Racing, her training, nutrition, and how to be a solid teammate. With her years of experience, her thoughts about the future of the sport are powerful and insightful. Thank you, Mari, for joining us for lucky episode #13.

]]>Search many a race start list and you'll be sure to see Mari's name. One of America's most prolific racers, Mari brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to The Dark Zone. Mari tells us about her introduction to Adventure Racing, her training, nutrition, and how to be a solid teammate. With her years of experience, her thoughts about the future of the sport are powerful and insightful. Thank you, Mari, for joining us for lucky episode #13.

]]>453aea8c-fa24-46e7-90c1-007b9632861bSat, 27 Nov 2021 09:20:00 -040001:05:19falsefull113131The Dark Zone 12: Wilo "Mr. Spirit Award Winner" Nater of Team OnyxThe Dark Zone 12: Wilo "Mr. Spirit Award Winner" Nater of Team OnyxWilo Nater - Father, U.S. Army Veteran, Educator, and Adventure Racer - of Team Onyx tells us all about his recent experiences at the recent USARA National Championships, his introduction to the sport, and the steep learning curve that he is enjoying as a newcomer to AR. Listen along as his infectious spirit, love of all things outdoors, and his joy in being part of a team just pours out of him. Thank you, WIlo, for sharing your experience and enthusiasm with us.

Links:

Team Onyx - https://www.usara.com/tales-from-ta-the-usara-blog/get-to-knowteam-onyx

]]>Wilo Nater - Father, U.S. Army Veteran, Educator, and Adventure Racer - of Team Onyx tells us all about his recent experiences at the recent USARA National Championships, his introduction to the sport, and the steep learning curve that he is enjoying as a newcomer to AR. Listen along as his infectious spirit, love of all things outdoors, and his joy in being part of a team just pours out of him. Thank you, WIlo, for sharing your experience and enthusiasm with us.

Links:

Team Onyx - https://www.usara.com/tales-from-ta-the-usara-blog/get-to-knowteam-onyx

]]>a053364c-5a5e-4af2-811c-6134d2188a12Fri, 05 Nov 2021 07:05:00 -040039:57falsefull112121The Dark Zone 11: Darren Steinbach - Bend Racing's 'All I Need Is A Day's Notice' Backup ExtraordinaireThe Dark Zone 11: Darren Steinbach - Bend Racing's 'All I Need Is A Day's Notice' Backup ExtraordinaireDarren Steinbach, with just a few days notice, jumps on a flight to Spain and competes in the Adventure Racing World Championships as a member of Oregon's Bend Racing . Join The Dark Zone as Darren walks us through his race, the challenges of the course, and the incredible support offered by his teammates. Plus how a bungee cord became a shin-saving lifeline.

]]>Darren Steinbach, with just a few days notice, jumps on a flight to Spain and competes in the Adventure Racing World Championships as a member of Oregon's Bend Racing . Join The Dark Zone as Darren walks us through his race, the challenges of the course, and the incredible support offered by his teammates. Plus how a bungee cord became a shin-saving lifeline.

]]>d8a00120-41bd-419a-96e6-c4e8dd0ac5a8Mon, 25 Oct 2021 20:59:00 -040001:07:52falsefull111111The Dark Zone 10: Richard Sparks - Two Races For The Price Of OneThe Dark Zone 10: Richard Sparks - Two Races For The Price Of OneRichard Sparks recently competed at the Adventure Racing World Championships in A Coruna, Spain in October 2021. The 600km race consisting of Mountain Biking, Trekking, Sea and River Kayaking, Coasteering, Ropes and Navigation hosted close to 100 teams. The race that Richard thought he was going to have and the race that he had were two completely separate things. Thank you to Richard for joining The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

]]>Richard Sparks recently competed at the Adventure Racing World Championships in A Coruna, Spain in October 2021. The 600km race consisting of Mountain Biking, Trekking, Sea and River Kayaking, Coasteering, Ropes and Navigation hosted close to 100 teams. The race that Richard thought he was going to have and the race that he had were two completely separate things. Thank you to Richard for joining The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

]]>f59eb7b1-5aae-40db-826c-a0f6b9085a08Mon, 11 Oct 2021 22:13:00 -040001:14:14falsefull110101The Dark Zone 9: Team WEDALI - 2021 USARA National Champions Tell All About Their Race Experience at Nationals, Their Training, and Non-Racing LivesThe Dark Zone 9: Team WEDALI - 2021 USARA National Champions Tell All About Their Race Experience at Nationals, Their Training, and Non-Racing LivesJustin 'Biz' Bakken and Brian Mayer join The dARk Zone to tell all about their recent victory at the USARA National Championships, the ups and downs of the race (broken bike shoe bolt, anyone?), and how teammate Mari Chandler (currently racing at the World Championships in Spain) saved their race 3 minutes after the start. Stick around for the bonus content.

Thank you to episode sponsor The New York Adventure Racing Association - www.nyara.org - and visit their website to learn more about The Longest Day 24-hour race coming in May 2022.

]]>Justin 'Biz' Bakken and Brian Mayer join The dARk Zone to tell all about their recent victory at the USARA National Championships, the ups and downs of the race (broken bike shoe bolt, anyone?), and how teammate Mari Chandler (currently racing at the World Championships in Spain) saved their race 3 minutes after the start. Stick around for the bonus content.

Thank you to episode sponsor The New York Adventure Racing Association - www.nyara.org - and visit their website to learn more about The Longest Day 24-hour race coming in May 2022.

]]>023d3ea5-c4a7-459f-b59b-94b08a717021Tue, 05 Oct 2021 07:27:00 -040001:12:41falsefull1991The Dark Zone 8: Tim Buchholz: On the Podium at Nationals, Wisconsin Pride, and the Nicest Guy to Ever Pass You In a RaceThe Dark Zone 8: Tim Buchholz: On the Podium at Nationals, Wisconsin Pride, and the Nicest Guy to Ever Pass You In a RaceTim Buchholz of Rib Mountain Racing recounts his team's USARA Nationals experience, talks about his growth as a racer, speaks about his best and not-so-best races (Who needs to bring all the maps anyway?), and reminds us that people from Wisconsin are just the nicest people. He's so nice that when he passes you during a race he offers a bright smile and really hopes you have a great race. Yep, one of those guys. Sit back, relax, and enjoy Tim and his tales of racing greatness.

]]>Tim Buchholz of Rib Mountain Racing recounts his team's USARA Nationals experience, talks about his growth as a racer, speaks about his best and not-so-best races (Who needs to bring all the maps anyway?), and reminds us that people from Wisconsin are just the nicest people. He's so nice that when he passes you during a race he offers a bright smile and really hopes you have a great race. Yep, one of those guys. Sit back, relax, and enjoy Tim and his tales of racing greatness.

]]>bada3c11-176f-4688-be2b-54a672750ed8Tue, 28 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -040044:08falsefull1881The Dark Zone 7: Mike Garrison, Part II - Breaking down Nationals, Telling Tales, and Having Us Book Flights West in 2022The Dark Zone 7: Mike Garrison, Part II - Breaking down Nationals, Telling Tales, and Having Us Book Flights West in 2022USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison, TDZ's first repeat guest, joins Brian to talk all things 2021 nationals. From the race structure, the teams that amazed him, and all the lessons learned, join Garrison as he shares his thoughts about the current state of and future growth of USARA.

And get ready for some jet lag, East Coasters, when the 2022 Nationals comes around.

]]>USARA Executive Director Michael Garrison, TDZ's first repeat guest, joins Brian to talk all things 2021 nationals. From the race structure, the teams that amazed him, and all the lessons learned, join Garrison as he shares his thoughts about the current state of and future growth of USARA.

And get ready for some jet lag, East Coasters, when the 2022 Nationals comes around.

]]>7f726ca0-d9a3-4c9d-9db4-8c1dd10a49a8Tue, 21 Sep 2021 01:51:00 -040046:16falsefull1771The Dark Zone 6: Paula Waite: Nationals Race Director, Future Owner of The Clam Lake Tanning SalonThe Dark Zone 6: Paula Waite: Nationals Race Director, Future Owner of The Clam Lake Tanning Salon2021 USARA National Championships Race Director Paula Waite of 180Adventure joins The Dark Zone to talk about the recent championships, the course, the experience of various teams, and her own adventure racing career. A longtime racer, RD, and advocate for the sport, Paula and her team brought the ar community a very successful national championship. Join us to learn more and hear directly from her.

]]>2021 USARA National Championships Race Director Paula Waite of 180Adventure joins The Dark Zone to talk about the recent championships, the course, the experience of various teams, and her own adventure racing career. A longtime racer, RD, and advocate for the sport, Paula and her team brought the ar community a very successful national championship. Join us to learn more and hear directly from her.

]]>bf2241fa-55db-4bdd-8d4b-0f3f71462bcbSun, 19 Sep 2021 06:33:00 -040041:57falsefull1661The Dark Zone 5: Steph Ross: RD, Racer, and the Woman of ARThe Dark Zone 5: Steph Ross: RD, Racer, and the Woman of ARStephanie Ross, USARA's nationals coordinator, competed in her first adventure race Odyssey's twelve-hour Jeep Kentucky AR at Carter Caves State Resort Park in 2002. She raced it solo and was completely demoralized by the course - and also completely hooked on the sport. A year later, she designed her first race, the Red River Gorge American Classic, aka the Fig, now the longest-running adventure race in Kentucky. She continued to organize races under the Flying Squirrel Adventure banner until 2015, when she turned over the Unbridled AR series and the Fig to 361 Adventures. Her efforts now focus on bringing more women (and youth) into the sport, through the Women of AR campaign. She has directed two USARA National Championships and has assisted with planning and vetting courses for Nationals since 2010.

Our conversation is expansive and wide-ranging - from her background in AR, how to be an aspiring race director, and her important and vital work with the Women of AR initiative.

This was a fun one to record, and I hope that you find Steph. Sit back and enjoy Episode 5 of the Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

]]>Stephanie Ross, USARA's nationals coordinator, competed in her first adventure race Odyssey's twelve-hour Jeep Kentucky AR at Carter Caves State Resort Park in 2002. She raced it solo and was completely demoralized by the course - and also completely hooked on the sport. A year later, she designed her first race, the Red River Gorge American Classic, aka the Fig, now the longest-running adventure race in Kentucky. She continued to organize races under the Flying Squirrel Adventure banner until 2015, when she turned over the Unbridled AR series and the Fig to 361 Adventures. Her efforts now focus on bringing more women (and youth) into the sport, through the Women of AR campaign. She has directed two USARA National Championships and has assisted with planning and vetting courses for Nationals since 2010.

Our conversation is expansive and wide-ranging - from her background in AR, how to be an aspiring race director, and her important and vital work with the Women of AR initiative.

This was a fun one to record, and I hope that you find Steph. Sit back and enjoy Episode 5 of the Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast.

]]>beae2c60-7f0d-4212-931e-f86d91d16aeaTue, 07 Sep 2021 05:56:00 -040001:27:56falsefull1551The Dark Zone 4: No Sleep 'Til Adventures: Brian and John of No Sleep AdventuresThe Dark Zone 4: No Sleep 'Til Adventures: Brian and John of No Sleep AdventuresJoin us as TDZ interviews John Farless and Brian Fribley of No Sleep Adventures. Friends, Adventurers, and Co-Race Directors John and Brian share their love of adventure racing, their introduction to the sport, and how much they enjoy bringing AR to new racers. They also confirm the sport stranglehold that basketball has on the state of Indiana. Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast!

]]>Join us as TDZ interviews John Farless and Brian Fribley of No Sleep Adventures. Friends, Adventurers, and Co-Race Directors John and Brian share their love of adventure racing, their introduction to the sport, and how much they enjoy bringing AR to new racers. They also confirm the sport stranglehold that basketball has on the state of Indiana. Welcome to The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast!

]]>dbfe033a-a686-40ca-9398-9bf3fe8d8ae6Tue, 10 Aug 2021 22:13:00 -040053:18falsefull1441The Dark Zone 3: AR Story Machine Brian ReissThe Dark Zone 3: AR Story Machine Brian ReissBrian Reiss - The Dark Zone's Original Recording Guinea Pig - joins The Dark Zone to tell us how he jumped into adventure racing with two feet, the things he's learned along the way, and how to be a great teammate. Brian is always up for an adventure and he's always great for a story or five.

]]>Brian Reiss - The Dark Zone's Original Recording Guinea Pig - joins The Dark Zone to tell us how he jumped into adventure racing with two feet, the things he's learned along the way, and how to be a great teammate. Brian is always up for an adventure and he's always great for a story or five.

]]>26b67c15-c9a5-4596-b406-4f06bd4323aaMon, 26 Jul 2021 15:39:00 -040042:15falsefull1331The Dark Zone 2: Shelley McLaughlinThe Dark Zone 2: Shelley McLaughlintag:soundcloud,2010:tracks/1082108905Tue, 13 Jul 2021 09:18:00 -040001:00:20falsefull1221Join The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast as Shelley Johansen shares her background, introduction to the sport, and recent experience at Expedition: Oregon.The Dark Zone 1: Mike Garrison, USARA Executive DirectorThe Dark Zone 1: Mike Garrison, USARA Executive DirectorJoin us as we hear from Michael Garrison, Executive Director of the United States Adventure Racing Association. Garrison/Mike/Michael (we call him all three during the podcast) is a longtime racer and not only offers an overview of adventure racing for the new person, but also speaks to what AR means to him and why he is so passionate about the community.

]]>Join us as we hear from Michael Garrison, Executive Director of the United States Adventure Racing Association. Garrison/Mike/Michael (we call him all three during the podcast) is a longtime racer and not only offers an overview of adventure racing for the new person, but also speaks to what AR means to him and why he is so passionate about the community.

]]>97ede23a-2964-4df3-bf7c-935d15db8f73Fri, 02 Jul 2021 10:28:00 -040049:53falsefull1111