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"Flyathlon has this magical way of forcing you to be both present and patient. You can't rush a river, and you sure can't fake catching a trout."

Ashley “Nelly” Nelson is a Boulder-based trail runner, flyathlon enthusiast, and community builder who brings heart, humor, and intention to everything she does. With roots in competitive sports and a creative spirit, Nelly blends trail running with fly fishing to reconnect with nature and redefine what movement can look like.

She’s the founder of Boulder Collective, a social run club focused on inclusivity and post-run connection, and works professionally in regenerative food systems—aligning her values both on and off the trail. Nelly’s story is a powerful reminder that performance isn’t just about pace—it’s about purpose, play, and building a life you love.

What We Talked About

Discovering the flyathlon: trail running meets fly fishing with a side of Type 2 fun
Founding Boulder Collective and creating space for runners of all backgrounds
Why creativity, rest, and balance are key to staying healthy and happy in the sport
Working in regenerative food systems and aligning outdoor passions with career values
Embracing community over competition—and why connection is a secret training tool

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