Peak Pursuits

In this episode of Peak Pursuits James and Vlad sit down with George Knight after his recent win at Buffalo Stampede 100km which was the Australian Long Trail Championships. Hear about Georges journey into running, his approach to training and racing, how his race went down, and so much more.  It's a lighter week on news and results but the crew also discuss an article this Mile and Stone Article [https://www.mileandstone.com/blog/avenir-trail-running-mile-stone-connect-2026] as well as run through the results below.  We hope you enjoy! Results: * Sydney Trail Half Marathon - Autumn (NSW) Mens Link [https://180cadence.au/pages/sydney-trail-half-marathon-autumn-2026-results?srsltid=AfmBOor2PkEeZsXqensdqUsutXOmq75BpjXCVEKW2BlCAY9d0t399BwA] , Womens link [https://180cadence.au/pages/sydney-trail-half-marathon-autumn-2026-results?srsltid=AfmBOor2PkEeZsXqensdqUsutXOmq75BpjXCVEKW2BlCAY9d0t399BwA] * Falls Creek Fun Run [https://my.raceresult.com/389741/] (VIC) * Beechworth Bushrangers Easter Fun Run [https://my.raceresult.com/387407/results#0_3EF1B7] (VIC) ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Join us on Patreon HERE [https://patreon.com/PeakPursuitsPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/?hl=en] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281?oq=vlad] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

This week on Peak Pursuits, Brodie Nankervis and Jess Jason are joined by Sarah Ludowici, fresh off 2nd place and first Aussie at the Buffalo Stampede 100km, which also doubled as the Australian Long Course Trail Champs. Sarah takes us through her race day, from training in the lead up to how it all played out on course. We chat through the highs, the tough moments, and how she handled the mental side of a 100k effort. We also dive into UTMB's updated pregnancy policy. It now extends beyond pregnancy to include IVF, surrogacy and adoption, offering more flexibility for athletes. As the only parent on the show, Sarah shares her thoughts on what this means. We recap Buffalo Stampede, including the APTRC spots. Ben Leeson and Gerald McPherson secured the men's tickets, while Alice McGushin and Nicole Paton took the women's. Jess also gives a quick recap of her 20km race, and we highlight big runs from Jo Hepton, James Barnett and George Knight. Down in Tas, the Kunanyi Mountain Run doubled as the Australian Mountain Running Champs and delivered huge performances. Meg set a new course record in the 25km, while Piotr and Sophie both broke records in the 42km. Kaitlin Rennie and Toby Lang won the open titles, with Liana Stubbs and Elijah Gosby taking out the U20s. We also cover results from Xterra Asia-Pacific Champs, Perth Trail Summer Series and the Lithgow Ridgy-Didge Trail Festival. This week's shoe review is the ASICS Trabuco 14, which Sarah raced in at Buffalo. We chat through how it held up over 100km. To finish, we look ahead to what's coming up including Sydney Trail Half Marathon, Falls Creek and Beechworth, and Brodie gives a quick update before heading to the Orienteering Australian Champs. A big episode with race insights, honest chat and all the latest from the Aussie trail scene. Results: Buffalo Stampede [https://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/buffalo-stampede-festival-2026] (VIC) Kunanyi Mountain Run [https://events.barefootsport.co.nz/event/1698/results] (TAS) Xterra Dunsborough [https://results.xterraplanet.com/results/83336c51-cb77-4836-8b4d-e3c24cbab585?race=7f90152f-656e-44af-b18d-b38ab4a84a5f] (WA) Perth Trail Summer Series: Stay Puft [https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=426138] (WA) Lithgow Ridgy-Didge Trail Run Festival [https://tempus.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16516&RId=457&EId=3&dt=0] (NSW) The Great Volcanic Mountain Challenge [https://www.greatvolcanic.org/results] (NSW) ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod or join our Patreon Here [https://patreon.com/PeakPursuitsPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava  [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834] Follow Sarah: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/sarahludo/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In this episode brought to you by ASICS, Sim and James sit down with young gun Ben Butler to hear all about his approach to running and why he has chosen to tackled the longer stuff while still so young. We think many people could learn from his calm, mature mentality and approach to training and hope it takes him far! Then we have a preview of this weekends Kunanyi Mountain Run, focussing on the Australina Mountain Running Champs, before the rest of the weeks results and a listener question about  preparing drop bags/crew for longer races.  We hope you enjoy! To join our Patreon head HERE [https://patreon.com/PeakPursuitsPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] Results: 1. Noosa Ultra Trail [https://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/noosa-ultra-trail-2026] (QLD) 2. Run The Rock [https://my.raceresult.com/388430/] (VIC) 3. Sydney Trail Half Marathon - Night Edition [https://180cadence.au/pages/sydney-trail-half-marathon-night-edition-2026-results?srsltid=AfmBOorsUyIBkMSJLfsG-9xJt8NfPHRYkMlWw_elwUsfDWqhjRbI277P] (NSW) 4. Sydney Trail Summer Series 3: Manly Dam [https://www.sydneytrailseries.com.au/results] (NSW) 5. Washpool World Heritage Trail Race [https://my.raceresult.com/379097/] (NSW) 6. Tamworth Trailblazer [https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=425336] (NSW) 7. Conquer the Summit [https://eventstrategies.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=90&RId=642&EId=3&dt=2&top=5] (SA) ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Sim: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506] Follow Ben: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/benjaminlbutler/] | Strava  [https://www.strava.com/athletes/70853896] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In this Buffalo Stampede Festival 2026 preview episode, James and Brodie break down one of the deepest fields we've seen for an Australian trail running weekend this year. They preview the 100k, 42k and 20k races, unpack the course changes, discuss the key contenders, and give their podium predictions across all three distances. From national championship implications in the 100k to stacked and highly competitive fields in the 42k and 20k, there is plenty to get excited about heading into race weekend. If you enjoy these preview shows and want access to early releases of them and where all the post-episode banter goes down, join the Patreon and support the podcast. And once you've listened, send us your own top three picks for the 100k, 42k and 20k over on Instagram. We'd love to see who you've got. ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at Bix's website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In this episode Brodie and Jess get the pleasure of getting to know Andrea Kolbeinsdóttir, a world class trail runner from Iceland and the recent winner of the GTNS Donna Double. Hear about Andreas running journey and some of her incredible results, and make sure you get behind her as we hope to see more of her in Aus! Then the team cover news from Ultra Trail Snowdonia, Results, and a listener question about how focussing on historic times may limit our potential.  We hope you enjoy! Results: * Razorback Run [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qN4WkdAdtK4CpMPmKqbA13io0ihRtRCyCHGTHDycfk0/edit?gid=0#gid=0] (VIC)  * Six Foot Track Marathon [https://thetimingguysresults.com/list/sixfoot/2026/6FT/] (NSW) * Trail Run Australia: Tathra [https://www.trailrunaustralia.com.au/results/] (NSW) * ATR Summer Series 5: Port Elliot Surf Run [https://my.raceresult.com/383720/](SA) * SEQ Trail Series Round 8: Daisy Hill [https://www.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=20148&RId=138&EId=2] (QLD) ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Andrea: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/andreakolbeins/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18158816] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava  [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

You hear Vlad Ixel every week on Peak Pursuits, but this episode is the deeper story behind the mic. Vlad takes us back to the early days: the lifestyle he was living, the moment he decided to make a clean break, and how signing up for a marathon became the switch that changed everything. We get into the family thread too: his dad's ultra background in the Soviet Union, and why that planted the seed for Vlad to chase the marathon and bigger challenges later on. From there, Vlad explains what hooked him: the simple power of finishing something, and how that turned into an obsession that's now led to hundreds of races. Then we go behind Bix Nutrition.  We also touch on his North Face sponsorship chapter: how it started, how it ended, and what he learned from that period. If you've ever wondered what shaped Vlad into the runner, coach, and founder he is now, this is the episode. And if it hits, share it with a mate,  especially someone who's in that "new chapter" phase and needs a nudge to back themselves. Check out Bix [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at Bix's website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Episode 100 of Peak Pursuits! Today, James, Jess, Brodie, Simone and Vlad come together for a special milestone episode to reflect on how the podcast started, the moments that have stood out across the first 100 episodes, and what it has meant to help grow and spotlight trail running in Australia. From behind-the-scenes stories and early doubts to favourite interviews, community support and plenty of laughs, it's a fun look back at the journey so far. The team also dive into a big weekend at Warburton Trail Fest, with Simone sharing the full story behind her emotional return to Donna, why the race carried so much meaning, and the huge life change that is just around the corner. Jess talks training with new coach Kate Avery and what's changed in her approach, while Brodie recaps his Donna Double experience after somehow forgetting his shoes on race morning. There's also discussion around different coaching styles, how athletes respond to training in different ways, ASICS Trabuco Max 5 review, results from the weekend, including the Donna Double, and a look ahead to races like Six Foot Track and Razorback. As always, there's plenty of banter along the way — and a big thank you to everyone who has listened, supported and helped Peak Pursuits reach 100 episodes. Results: * Trans Gran Canaria [https://transgrancanaria.v3.livetrail.net/es/2026] * Warbutron Trail Run Festival [https://tomatotiming.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16&RId=29973&EId=1&dt=1&top=3] * Pinnacles Classic [https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=423718] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at Bix's website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits - Join us on Patreon! [https://patreon.com/PeakPursuitsPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Check out the Trabuco Max 5 [https://www.asics.com/au/en-au/trabuco-max-5/p/AOP_1011C164-400.html?srsltid=AfmBOoq2h5kLLgis0-3-5bcJQIKOd7IGBScF-9sIsBwbxe5x5psqLWcx] Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834?oq=Jess%20] Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Follow Simone: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506] Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

AUTRA President Gary Mullins and Vice President Geoff Russell have stepped down — and it's sparked a lot of questions across the trail community. In this episode, Gary and Geoff share what led to the decision, the internal challenges they faced, and why athlete advocacy, selection, and governance direction became major pressure points. We also look ahead to what the AGM means, what they hope happens next, and what needs to change to keep Australian trail running moving forward. If you care about the future of trail running in Australia, this one's worth a listen — and if it helps, share it with a mate who's been following the story. AUTRA Announcement  [https://www.autra.asn.au/message-to-the-members-feb-2026] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at Bix's website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In Episode 99 of Peak Pursuits, James, Jess and Brodie all sit down with Australia's newly crowned short trail national champion, Michael Tosin, after his surprise victory at Snowy Mountains 50k. From a rapid progression to a 2:18 marathon to stepping up and winning on the trails, Michael's story is one of raw talent, smart training, and huge potential. We unpack his unconventional race-day nutrition, training approach, and what's next with Asia Pacific selection on the line. The team then discuss the recent resignations of the President and Vice President of AUTRA, Gary Mullins and Geoff Russell, before previewing the fields for this weekend's Donna Double at Warburton Trail Fest  - with a huge $21,000 prize purse on the line! This week's listener questions are on topic for Warby Trail Fest [https://www.warburtontrailfest.com/] with questions about poles on the Donna Double course and what to eat before a race. As usual results from the past weekend are also outlined and there is plenty of banter along the way - we hope you enjoy! Results: * Mt Bogong Conquestathon (VIC) [https://www.alpinetiming.com.au/results/r640/] * SEQ Trail Series Round 7: Ewen Maddock [https://www.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?uId=20148-137-0-0]  * Whale Rock Trail Run [https://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/whale-rock-trail-run-2026]  * Perth Trail Summer Series: Chitty Chitty Run Run [https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=422876]  * Belair Marathon [https://my.raceresult.com/385251/]  ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava  [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834] Follow Michael: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/michaeltosin_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/34491078] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Nathan Pearce has moved fast in trail running, but the story starts long before the trails. In this episode, Nathan takes us back to his junior years on the track and in cross country, and the early signs that he could race hard on unpredictable terrain. We talk about the rough patch too. The pressure, the injuries, stepping away for a while, and what changed when he came back with a healthier mindset and a clearer relationship with racing. We also zoom out on what separates domestic racing from World Champs racing, and why Australia needs more consistent head to head competition if we want athletes better prepared for the true international level. And to finish, Nathan shares what is coming up next, with a stacked block that includes Buffalo, Skyrun, the Rootburn in New Zealand, a World Cup race in China, and UTA 22. If you are into performance, racing craft, and the real conversations behind results, you will get a lot out of this one. ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at Bix's website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Nathan: Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/1305884?oq=Nathan] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nathanpearce_/] Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In Episode 98 of Peak Pursuits brought to you by ASICS [https://www.asics.com/au/en-au/], Sim and Vlad start out by chatting through Vlad's experience at Tarawera, including what led to his DNF and his lessons for moving forward.  They are then joined by Sarah Ludowici to go through the results of the weekends Australian Short Trail Championships, followed by a discussion on equality and inclusion after event policies rendered Sarah unable to participate in the 30km event she was registered for due to the timing of the race briefing, her need to look after her beautiful 10month old Aurora at that time, and inflexibility on accommodating this need. It sparks a larger discussion around what inclusion and equality looks like, and the effect it can have on groups of people when policies  inadvertently disadvantage their ability to compete.  The team then relay some of the results from what was a busy weekend, before previewing next week which is just as busy. We hope you enjoy!  Results: * Snowy Mountains Trail Run [https://www.trailrunaustralia.com.au/results/] * Hut 2 Hut [https://tomatotiming.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16&RId=30004&EId=1] * Run the Lighthouse [https://my.raceresult.com/383949/] * Takayna Trail Ultra [https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=422107] * ATR Summer Series 4: Cleland National Park [https://www.adelaidetrailrunners.com.au/results-startlists]  * Sydney Trail Summer Series 2: Manly Dam [https://www.sydneytrailseries.com.au/results] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories, or email at peakpursuitspodcast@gmail.com. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/?hl=en] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281?oq=vlad] Follow Sim: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506] Follow Sarah: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/sarahludo/?hl=en] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In Episode 97 of Peak Pursuits Holly Ranson sits down with James to talk through her Tarawera run and that unforgettable moment of being handed a Golden Ticket to Western States on the finish line after her 4th place finish! Hear about Holly's training, approach to the race, and everything that goes into Holly's impressive running career so far.  The duo then touch on the Barkley Marathons, with no finishers in this years event, before chatting through a listener question on when to DNF vs when to push on and finish if a race isn't going to plan.  As usual you'll also hear a bunch of results and a brief preview of this weekends Australian Championships and Hut2Hut! Results: * Australian Alpine Ascent [https://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/races/australian-alpine-ascent-2026]  * Yaberoo Trail Twilight Ultra  [https://my.raceresult.com/381960/] * SEQ Trail Series Round 6: Wyaralong Dam [https://www.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=20148&RId=136&EId=1]  * Upper Beaconsfield Tower Run [https://my.raceresult.com/356827/] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Holly: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/hollyrranson/?hl=en] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In this episode of Peak Pursuits Sim and Jess are lucky enough to be joined by not only one of the best trail runners in Aus but now a Winter Olympian to boot Lara Hamilton! Lara is currently in Italy in the days leading up to her two Skimo events in the Olympics, and she joins us to chat briefly through her journey so far and what it is like being named on her first Olympic team.  Hear how Lara trains, how she stays in touch with what she loves about sport and music, and plenty of the fun stories that always come with any time spent with Lara! Also hear an update from Jess with answers on her long term gut troubles, Sim's update as she gets moving again, and a discussion on the 'State of Trail Running' articles that have been popping up recently before results and a Tarawera preview. A big episode - Enjoy! Results: * Sydney Trail Summer Series 1: Manly Dam (NSW) [https://www.sydneytrailseries.com.au/results] * John Forest Trail Run (WA) [https://www.wamc.org.au/race-results?year=2026&race=255&distance=441#results] * Wentworth Falls Trail Run (NSW) [https://tempus.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16516&RId=442&EId=1&dt=2&top=3] * Robe Run [https://my.raceresult.com/376533/]  ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava  [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834] Follow Sim: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506] Follow Lara: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lara_hamilton/?hl=en] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R Show less

In this episode of Peak Pursuits, Brodie and Sim sit down with Piotr Babis to unpack one of the boldest endurance feats ever attempted in Tasmania's southwest: a first-ever continuous FKT linking the Eastern Arthurs, Western Arthurs, Port Davey and the South Coast Track. Piotr breaks down the brutal reality of 240km and 12,000m of elevation across some of Australia's most remote and overgrown terrain, covering navigation challenges, weather windows, crew logistics and multi-day fueling in true wilderness conditions. The team dives into why Tassie's Arthurs remain among the toughest environments in Australian trail running, what it takes to plan FKTs, and how this adventure fits alongside Piotr's 2026 race calendar including Gone Nuts, KMR and UTA. A must-listen for anyone fascinated by FKTs, Tasmanian trail running, and the outer edges of endurance adventure. The team then dives into some chats around the changes in the trail running scene as it gets bigger and social media influence brings new people to the trails, as well as some results and a listener question around race pressure.  Results: * Kilcunda Running Festival (VIC) [https://www.alpinetiming.com.au/results/r645/] * Beerwah at Night (QLD) [https://results.sportseventservices.com.au/results.aspx?CId=16287&RId=6512&dt=2&top=5&EId=3] * SEQ Trail Series Round 5: Bunyaville [https://www.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=20148&RId=135&EId=1]  * Perth Trail Summer Series [https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=419958] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Sim: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Follow Piotr: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/iron_explorer/?hl=en] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

This week on the podcast Brodie and Vlad are joined by Zoe Manning, up and coming ultra trail specialist. We get to know Zoe before diving into her preparation for the upcoming Tarawera 100km, contrasting her playful and intuitive training style to Vlad's data driven approach for the same race! We then cover the AUTRA Performance of the Year award and how it may have been a missed opportunity to engage the trail running community, discuss a controversial study released this week making bold claims about low carb and touch on the many current "runner of the year" awards and trail runner rankings. We finish this weeks podcast by chatting about the HK 100, the first stop of the World Trail Majors in 2026. James gives us a somewhat controversial question to answer before we let you know what's coming up this weekend! Results: * Hong Kong 100  [https://results.racetimingsolutions.com/Results.aspx?CId=16387&RId=6665] * Hong Kong 50 [https://results.racetimingsolutions.com/Results.aspx?CId=16387&RId=6664] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/?hl=en] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281?oq=vlad] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Follow Zoe: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/zoe.manningg/?hl=en] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

Iain Best is back, and a lot has changed since we last spoke. He is now a dad of two, still racing hard, and still finding ways to train with purpose when sleep is broken and life is full. In this episode, James and Iain go deep on what "real" consistency looks like, how Iain shifted from ultras into the world of mountain and skyrunning, and why uphill racing became the thing he could not stop chasing. It's an honest chat about identity, ambition, and keeping the love of the sport alive while the sport itself keeps changing. They also zoom out on trail running in Australia, from the volunteer roots that built the scene to the more commercial era we are in now. And to finish, Iain shares what is coming next: a stack of races at home, then a big move to France mid-year with a massive European calendar on the horizon. In this episode: * Training and racing as a new parent, without pretending it's easy * Why uphill became Iain's weapon, and what it changed in his running * Skyrunning, VKs, and the pathway from ultras to the mountains * Lessons from the Army, injury rehab culture, and discipline that actually holds up * Where trail running is heading, and what we do not want to lose along the way * The plan for 2026, including a mid-year move to France and a packed racing schedule ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at Bix's website [https://www.bixvitamins.com/en-au] for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod [https://www.instagram.com/peakpursuits.pod/] to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Iain: Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/7464701?oq=Iain] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In episode 93 of Peak Pursuits, Jess and James sit down with Australian World Champs representative SJ to unpack a big few months on and off the trails. SJ reflects on her Short Trail performance at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships, a tough post-race illness, and a confidence-boosting win at Bogong to Hotham last weekend. The conversation then turns to 2026 planning, with a shift toward longer racing and a bold entry into the Kunanyi 66km.  Jess and James also share candid updates on their own training returns, before diving deep into one of the biggest global talking points in trail running: UTMB's new carbon offset policy and its impact on Australian athletes. Packed with athlete insight, race results, and informed debate, this episode cuts to the heart of where trail running in Australia is heading. Results: * Bogong 2 Hotham [https://my.raceresult.com/377830/results] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava  [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834] Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow SJ: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/sarahjayne.miller/] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R Show less

In episode 92 of Peak Pursuits, Sim and Jess are joined by Kate Avery fresh off a remarkable post-partum win at the Two Bays Trail Run. Kate breaks down her return to racing, the realities of training and recovery after pregnancy, and how her confidence is building toward a stacked 2026 season. The team dives deep into Two Bays race results across the 28km and 56km, including standout performances from Caitlin Fielder, Toby Sparks and a red-hot elite field. They also tackle major global news with UTMB's newly announced mandatory carbon offset policy [https://montblanc.utmb.world/2026registrations] and what it means for Australian runners. Packed with results, athlete insight and topical debate, this is essential listening for anyone following trail running in Australia right now. Results: * Two Bays Trail Run (VIC) [https://tomatotiming.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16&RId=29961&EId=2] * ATR Round 3 - Belair National Park (SA) [https://my.raceresult.com/376770/results] ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Jess: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessjason/] | Strava  [https://www.strava.com/athletes/54364834] Follow Sim: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506] Follow Kate: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/kate_avery1/?hl=en] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R

In this episode of Peak Pursuits, the crew kicks off 2026 with a deep dive into Aussie trail runner Billy Curtis' European winter campaign, fresh off a win at the Trail del Bora ultra in northern Italy. Billy breaks down his move to longer racing, grey-zone training, and why Montenegro and the Balkans are underrated training hubs for trail runners. The team also looks ahead to the World Trail Majors, including Trans Gran Canaria, Madeira, and Transvulcania, and what they mean for Australian athletes on the global stage. Plus, a detailed preview of the stacked Tarawera Ultra-Trail 100km field and Golden Ticket implications for Western States. Essential listening for anyone following elite trail running in Australia and beyond. ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners! And to enter our end of year giveaway make sure you follow us and Bix Australia on insta then tag your friend in a comment on this episodes post!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/?hl=en] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281?oq=vlad] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Follow Billy: Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/65282012] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R Show less

Episode 90 of Peak Pursuits delivers the second half of a comprehensive wrap of a massive 2025 for Australian trail running, as James, Vlad, Brodie, and Sim hand out their end-of-year performance awards. In Part 2, the team debates the standout seasons of the year and the best race battles that 2025 delivered! The team then end with some quickfire discussions on global runner of the year, favourite gear in 2025 and more. What do you think? Were we close or did we miss something? Let us know! ***Don't forget, use code PEAK at https://bix-hydration.myshopify.com/en-au for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!*** Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and your own trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits! Follow James: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjamessieber/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/48288519] | Website [https://www.coachjamessieber.com/] Follow Vlad: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/vladixel/?hl=en] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/3232281?oq=vlad] Follow Sim: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theflyingbrick_/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/18643506] Follow Brodie: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/brodie_nank/] | Strava [https://www.strava.com/athletes/5321505] Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetter License code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R