TRAIL RUNNING CHANGED EVERYTHING - Jacob Puzey Interview | Elite Runner (5 Peaks Races)

“What I love about running and what I love about the running and particularly the trail running community is how inclusive it is, or at least it can be. You can be a runner and not ever do an ultra in your life, and that doesn’t make you a lesser person or a lesser runner.” - Jacob Puzey

*The Power of Community, Resilience, and Passion in Trail Running - with Jacob Puzey*

Ever wonder what it takes to be an elite trail runner, race director and community builder all at once? Join us as we explore Jacob's inspiring journey from humble beginnings in rural America to setting world records on treadmills, inspiring thousands through Five Peaks races, and his unwavering love for nature and community.

Jacob Puzey is a Canadian elite trail runner, coach, and race director who has dedicated his career to building an inclusive and thriving running community. A former 2:22 marathoner and multiple-time Calgary 50K winner, he is best known for shattering the 50-mile treadmill world record in 4:57:45 and for founding and directing Canada’s popular 5 Peaks Trail Running Series.

This episode is a testament to the idea that running is about people, passion, and purpose - no podium required.

In this episode:
►Jacob's early love for running and coming from a big, supportive family
►How a childhood in rural America shaped his connection to nature and running
► The story behind setting a 50-mile treadmill record in 2016
► Building the Five Peaks trail series as a celebration of nature, family, and community
► The importance of inclusivity and accessibility in trail running for all ages and abilities
► The mental, physical, and emotional benefits of trail running beyond competition
► Insights into maintaining a balanced, sustainable approach to racing and life
► Jacob’s thoughts on the future, race ambitions, and staying true to the love of the run

Timestamps:
0:00 - Jacob Puzey becomes a RUNEGADE
3:09 - Jacob’s achievements: Boston Marathon 2017, 50k treadmill world record
4:24 - The core ethos: Running as community, not just competition
5:24 - Encouraging newcomers: Trail running for everyone
6:35 - The story of how Jacob discovered trail racing and his journey
7:23 - From backyard races to Canada: The origins of Five Peaks
8:20 - Balancing life, passion, and building a sustainable race series
10:02 - Virtual races during COVID and maintaining community spirit
12:06 - Family involvement and fostering a love for running among kids
16:30 - The motivation behind setting the 50-mile treadmill world record
28:37 - How Jacob prepared for and achieved the treadmill record feat
36:42 - The importance of community support and sponsorship
38:24 - Reflection on race times and personal growth
44:03 - Jacob and Tommy Rivs Puzey
55:30 - The universal joy of running and making connections
1:1034 - Memories of Boston Marathon with his brother, Tommy
1:1847 - What's next? Jacob’s thoughts.
1:20:40 - Final reflections: Gratitude and the enduring love for running

Connect with Jacob:
► Instagram: instagram.com/jacobpuzey
► Five Peaks Race Series: 5peaks.com

Remember, the trail isn’t just a place to run, it’s a space to grow, connect, and inspire. Cheers to the everyday act of showing up - on the trails, in life, and in community - we're happy that you're a RUNEGADE

Big news: Todd has joined @StrengthRunning is being coached by Jason Fitzgerald - Jason is going to help Todd get stronger, stay healthy, race faster - check out Strength Running : strengthrunning.com

🚨*Save $$$ With Our Exclusive Discount Codes*🚨
➡️ linktr.ee/altramarathonman

Connect with RUNEGADE:
► Email: runegadepodcast@gmail.com
► Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/altramarathonman
► Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/runclemark
► Instagram: instagram.com/altra_harvey
► X: ⁠⁠⁠x.com/RUNEGADEpodcast
► Facebook Community: ⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/therunegadepodcast%E2%81%A0%E2%81%A0%E2%81%A0
► Todd on Strava: ⁠⁠strava.com/athletes/24075567
⁠⁠► Mark on Strava: ⁠⁠strava.com/athletes/32395525%E2%81%A0%E2%81%A0
► Harvey on Strava: strava.com/athletes/23902067

About RUNEGADE: Two ordinary friends practicing the lost art of conversation to better understand running, life, and what it means to be human. We interview athletes, doctors, scientists, Olympians, and everyday doers of Big Things to help you run, feel, and live better.

WN7VD4KTSGBKWJ4K, 0YRL6Z6KLIX4KVQF, OGRUMZFBK8GFQHX9