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Ever wonder what it takes to compete at the highest level of mountain running? Andy Wacker, one of America's most accomplished trail runners, pulls back the curtain on his remarkable journey in this candid conversation.

From crushing a string of road races to preparing for the all-important Sunapee Mountain Classic, Andy shares the surprising freedom he's found competing without sponsorship. "Racing for myself takes a lot of pressure off and it's been really fun," he reveals, explaining how this mindset has contributed to some of his best performances ever—including a fourth-place finish at the US Cross Country Championships and a breakthrough 13:51 5K on the track after a decade-long hiatus.

The conversation digs into the fascinating tactical challenges of Sunapee's two-loop format, where competitors must navigate non-technical uphills and tricky descents not once but twice. Andy breaks down his specific preparation, including simulating the punishing sensation of hammering a downhill before immediately climbing again. "You've got to be able to hang with everyone climbing insanely fast. You've got to be able to descend on the most techie thing you've seen and be fine, and then you've got to be ready to do it again better than you did the first time," he explains.

For Andy, this race represents more than just competition—it's a redemption opportunity after missing chances due to injuries and illness in recent years. He shares his burning desire to make Team USA and contribute to what could be a historic squad: "I really want to be on a team that wins a gold medal at Worlds, and this could be that team." With competitors capable of sub-14 minute 5Ks and sub-30 minute 10Ks lining up together, the stage is set for what promises to be an epic battle for those coveted national team spots.

Whether you're a competitive runner or simply appreciate athletic excellence, this episode offers valuable insights into the mindset and preparation of elite mountain runners. Listen now and discover what it takes to perform when everything is on the line.

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