The Dark Zone: An Adventure Racing Podcast

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.comEMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracingRootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracingRootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.com

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.comEMAR Live Tracking Link - https://live.enabledtracking.com/endlessmountains2025/Rootstock Racing Facebook Page - http://www.facebook.com/rootstockracingRootstock Racing Instagram Page - http://www.instagram.com/rootstockracingRootstock Racing - www.rootstockracing.comSponsor 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/buckshotTrans 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/doomTour Divide - https://tourdivide.org/about_the_routeAtlas Mountain Race - https://bikepacking.com/tracker/atlas-mountain-race-2025/Silk Road Mountain Race - https://www.themountainraces.cc/silk-road-mountain-raceHellenic Mountain Race - https://www.themountainraces.cc/hellenic-mountain-raceCaves and Coves TT - https://www.bikepackadventures.ca/bikepacking-routes/caves-and-coves-ittSponsor Links:American Himalayan Foundation - https://www.himalayan-foundation.org/

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

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/

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.comGuest Link:Andy Bacon's EX2 Adventures - https://ex2adventures.com/Featured USARA Races:Stubborn Mule Adventure Race - https://180adventure.com/sm-race-infoRainier 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.comThank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

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/WildDriftlessFreedom by Sebastian Junger - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55711668-freedomSponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/

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

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/Truehttps://www.usara.com/news/the-ar-kids-are-alrighthttps://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

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-2025Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforherhttps://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-canadahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/blade9films/posts/?feedView=allhttps://www.visitpenticton.com/Sponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforherhttps://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-2025Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforherhttps://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.comhttps://arworldseries.com/races/expedition-africa-namibia-2024-namibiaSponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/Hike For Her Registration Page - https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99558/hike-for-her-2025Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforherhttps://www.wilddriftless.com/race-information

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-2025Hike For Her Auction Site - https://app.galabid.com/hikeforherwww.wildernesstraverse.com

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-adventuTeton Ogre Adventure Race - https://tetonogre.com/Shownotes: Emily Korsch's AR Blog - http://www.emilykorsch.com/p/about-me.htmlThanks 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.comThank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

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-africaThe 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 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=1000647735469TDZ 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=1000662616424Sponsor 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-1.2190231WPG Information - https://www.alshindagah.com/march98/desert.htmSponsor 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

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-championshipsOzark 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=1Sponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/www.wildernesstraverse.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.comUntamed New England 2010 (credit to Randy Ericksen) - https://vimeo.com/29901661The Dirtbag Diaries - What is Hardcore? - https://dirtbagdiaries.com/hardcore/Sponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/https://chimneysweepva.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/

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-01Shownotes: USARA: https://www.usara.com/anti-dopingUSADA: https://www.usada.org/Global Dro (medications): https://www.globaldro.com/HomeNSF: Certified for Sport (supplements): https://www.nsfsport.com/index.phpIV 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.pdfThanks 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.comThank you for stopping by The Checkpoint. Don't stay here too long. There's training and racing to get to!

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.comhttps://arworldseries.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.orghttps://www.mississippispeedrecord.com/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

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

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/livearwc24Sponsor 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-ecuadorhttps://proyectoaventura.com/public/site/13/home_arwc24Sponsor 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 Day1st Place (Tie) - Solo - Tug Hill4th Place - 2-Person Coed - The Hard Fall2024: 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 - FinishedEndless 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.comhttps://tughilloutfitters.com/tug-hill-extreme-adventure/https://www.rootstockracing.com/two-rivers-adventure-race.htmlhttps://www.usara.com/national-championships-2024https://www.gmara.org/races/hardfall/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.comhttps://www.rootstockracing.comhttps://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.comhttps://www.rootstockracing.comhttps://ardarkzone.com/Sponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/https://www.thearschool.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.comThank 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.comhttps://www.usara.com/www.ardarkzone.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.ukhttps://www.rannochadventure.com/http://www.worldstoughestrow.comhttps://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.comhttps://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/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-canadahttps://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 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/expeditionoregon2024https://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_arwc24https://ardarkzone.com/Sponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/https://www.thearschool.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.comThank 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 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-championshipsSponsor 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/

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-canadahttps://utmb.world/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/englishhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7gbIVNCvG_4mSYKREpyU1gSponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/

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-chilehttps://larutamadre.mx/Sponsor Links:https://www.ascendathletics.org/https://www.adventureenablers.com/

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=QMRHA2TXVIUWBMYBPHCMSponsor Links:https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024

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-championshipshttps://www.adventureaddictsracing.com/https://www.usara.com/2024-national-championshipsMusic Intro: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7xxNc2lJSTr77HfacfOLUl?si=Q3HuT2Y2TYyrxlRoy5HQFwSponsor Links:https://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024https://chimneysweepva.com/

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-kinghttps://raceroster.com/events/2024/85413/hike-for-her-2024https://wondery.com/shows/alternate-routes/

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/393https://jessetubb.com/

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

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-expdhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11710981965297924946https://sportzhub.com/article/historic-win-for-mountain-designs-wild-women-team-at-legend-xpd-australia.htmlhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dark-zone-84-adventure-racer-and-race-director-chris/id1578529221?i=1000636511297Episode Sponsors: https://www.ascendathletics.org/

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/id1730696441https://www.adventuresignup.com/Race/MO/Eminence/TheBerrymanAdventurehttps://www.dinoseries.com/www.usara.com