David Horton is a 5-time finisher and won the first two Hardrock 100 races.  He has competed in over 160 ultras with 40 wins. He is one of 14 finishers of the iconic Barkleys Marathon.  But wait, he has also set speed records on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Coast Trail and one of the fastest transcontinental runs.  David is a Professor of Health Sciences at Liberty University where he shares his passion for endurance sports with its students and encourages them to aspire to more.

In this episode David shares some of his philosophies and passion for trail running.

David also directs the Hellgate 100k.

Listen to our first interview with David back in 2014 at the Hardrock 100

"You're off to Great Places, today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so...get on your way!" - Dr. Seuss

Trail running is more than exercise, it is moving meditation with nature.

Do you want some of this? Are you considering trail running? You might have some apprehensions.

In this episode we talk with long time trail runners Brian Metzler and Doug Meyer about trail running basics from where to find a trail to running gear, fueling and safety.  Their stories and step by step process will give you the knowledge and confidence you need to begin your journey on the trail.  Already a long-time veteran?  You might be able to recall some of the stories where you learned the importance of hydration, fueling, alluding bears, etc.

Doug and Brian recently published, "Trail Running Illustrated: The Art of Running Free", a great reference for anyone that enjoys or wants to enjoy the trail.

Here are the links to Brian's previous episodes:

• Kicksology: They Hype, Science, Culture & Cool of Running Shoes
• Pack Burro Racing - A Kick in the Ass

Since it is gift-giving season, we thought we would throw out some ideas to The Nation in a unique way, by doing a gift exchange with Andy Jones-Wilkins!

Here are some of the gifts:

• Book, Running & Being by George Sheehan
• Sundial 
• Snittens
• Holy Hiker Bidet
• Petzl Iko headlamp
• A race bib/entry

Hire Andy as a coach! or check out his weekly Tap Room at iRunFar

Patrick Reagan has twenty years of running experience and had been coaching endurance athletes for ten years.  But in 2021 he found himself in a funk that he couldn't figure out.  In this episode, Patrick explains that his increased fatigue and changing emotions were a result of low ferritin and iron levels.  He reveals what changes he made and how he is coming back to his real self.

Patrick runs professionally for Hoka One One and GU Energy Labs.  Here are his recent accomplishments:

• 2017 finished 12th at Comrades Marathon in South Africa
• 2017 first 100-mile @ Javelina Hundred, won and set course record in 13:01.14 AND defended his title in 2018 and 2019
• 2019 USATF 100-mile champ and CR at Brazos Bend 100
• 2019 1st WS100 (8th place)
• 2021 19th WS100

Be sure to check out his new coaching website. 

Lives in Savannah, CA with wife Adrienne, 2 dogs and 2 cats