This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we're tackling a story that's a touchdown for the running community! We're hanging out with Chris Stangle, a former football player who traded his helmet for a headlamp and is now not only crushing ultra marathons but also orchestrating some seriously awesome races!

Chris takes us on his unexpected journey from the gridiron to the grueling world of ultras, sharing how he discovered his love for endurance and the challenges he faced along the way. But what really shines through is his passion for the running community. We'll talk about the significance of those coveted race buckles (you know you collect them!), the importance of a strong support crew, and the incredible family-like atmosphere he creates at his events in Florida and Ohio.

Ever wonder what it's like to be the person behind the race? Chris pulls back the curtain on the wild world of race directing, the hurdles involved, and the immense joy that comes from seeing runners achieve their goals. Get ready for a story that's all about passion, community, and the unforgettable memories forged on the trails.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chris Stangel and His Journey

02:31 The Transition from Football to Running

05:22 The Evolution of Chris's Running Career

08:17 Starting Run Fluent and Race Directing

10:41 The Significance of Matakwa and Race Directing Experiences

13:41 Unique Race Medals and Their Importance

16:33 Meeting His Wife and Shared Running Experiences

19:11 Memorable Races and Lessons Learned

22:09 The Impact of Virtual Races During COVID-19

28:47 Running Shoes and Early Experiences

30:35 Challenging Races and Personal Growth

35:58 Upcoming Races and Training Plans

37:04 Event Planning and Race Descriptions

49:25 Community Building and Race Directing Challenges

01:00:15 The Challenges of Race Timing

01:06:30 The Evolution of Running and Race Directing

01:07:50 Finding Purpose in Running

01:10:05 The Joy of Race Directing

01:11:57 Low-Key Races and Personal Preferences

01:15:24 Dream Races and Aspirations