Endurance Nation Triathlon Podcast

Special guest John Withrow returns to recount his grueling adventure at the Margie Gessick race—a notorious 110-mile mountain biking marathon with a staggering 70% Did Not Finish rate. Known for its rocky and root-filled trails in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this race demanded intense physical and mental endurance. John opens up about the unique challenges he encountered this year compared to past races like the Leadville Trail 100, and how family dynamics influenced his decision to take on such a monumental challenge. We explore the mindset necessary to push through the exhaustion and obstacles, highlighting the personal sacrifices and strategic planning that went into this endeavor. Our conversation shifts to the critical topic of fueling and pacing strategies during these extreme endurance events. I discuss my own experiences, revealing my decision to sometimes walk instead of run to conserve energy and the complexities of maintaining proper nutrition on a technical course. An oversight led to a challengin