This week on the Dirt and Vert Podcast, we sat down with ultra runner Ron Wireman. Ron's no stranger to pushing limits, and he shared some incredible stories from his experiences at Bob's Backyard Ultra and Big's Backyard Ultra.

We dove deep into the nitty-gritty of backyard ultras, from the unique challenges they present to the incredible camaraderie among runners. Ron opened up about his training, race day strategies, and how he fuels himself to keep going.

But it's not just about the physical stuff. Ron got real about the mental battles he faced during those races – the grit and determination it takes to overcome pain and keep pushing forward. He also talked about the importance of teamwork and support in the ultra world, and how those bonds help runners achieve the impossible.

Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just curious about this crazy sport, Ron's insights are sure to inspire you to chase your own adventures and discover the strength within.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ron Wireman and His Achievements

06:30 Training and Preparation for Big's Backyard Ultra

12:08 Logistics and Crew Management for Big's

18:05 Nutrition Strategies During the Race

23:55 Hallucinations and Mental Challenges During the Race

35:31 Navigating the Challenges of Endurance Racing

44:44 Team Dynamics and Support in Ultra Running

53:29 The Mental Game: Pushing Through Pain and Fatigue

01:00:01 Nutrition and Hydration Strategies for Endurance

01:08:49 Gear Choices: Finding the Right Shoes for the Race

01:15:55 Achieving Personal Records and Overcoming Challenges

01:25:03 Advice for First-Time Backyard Racers

01:34:45 Finding Your Passion in Endurance Sports

01:45:31 Navigating Pain in Endurance Running

01:51:29 The Role of Mental Resilience

01:59:28 Crew Support and Decision Making

02:11:19 Future Goals and Reflections