Choose to Endure

What makes the difference between surviving and thriving during a 200-mile ultra journey? For five back-of-the-pack runners at the 2025 Swammie Shuffle 200, the answer emerged organically when they formed what they affectionately dubbed "the Party Pack." This episode pulls back the curtain on an unforgettable adventure along North Carolina's Outer Banks (#OBX), where the collective

Ever found yourself lost in the darkness during an ultra run, questioning why you ever started this crazy journey? Let me take you on a personal adventure through the moonlit trails where perspectives shift, and challenges morph into serene experiences. Discover how the tranquility of running under a starlit sky can transform a daunting obstacle into one of the most beautiful parts

What if the true magic of ultra running isn't crossing the finish line first, but the friendships formed along the way? Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share the heartwarming tales and connections that flourish at the back of the pack. While the front runners might chase the clock, we savor each grueling mile, the camaraderie, and the shared struggle that transforms strangers into li

Ever made the rookie mistake of racing someone else’s race instead of your own? I did during my first 50k ultra, and it taught me an invaluable lesson about the power of pacing. In this episode of the Choose to Endure, dive into the heart of what it means to truly embrace your own pace. We'll unpack strategies that help you remain focused on your unique goals and strengths, ward

What if training for a mountainous ultra race while living in a flat city isn't just possible, but actually an opportunity to get creative and resilient? Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share my personal journey of preparing for a 15,000-foot vert race from the pancake-flat landscapes of Houston, TX. I promise you'll learn how to transform your treadmill into a powerful 'tread hill'

Have you ever wondered how your choice of accommodation can make or break your race weekend experience? Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share my personal adventures navigating the world of ultra running on a budget. From the camaraderie of camping near the race venue to the plush comforts of distant hotels, each option offers unique advantages and challenges. Balancing race weekend e

Ever found yourself at the back of the pack, wondering how to make your ultra running experience smooth and successful? You're not alone, and on this episode of Choose to Endure, you'll discover how to transform your drop bags into essential race tools that cater specifically to your needs. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I share personal stories and practical advice on packing drop ba

Ever found yourself caught in the adrenaline rush at the start line, only to hit a wall miles before the finish? That's a lesson I learned the hard way at the Lighthouse Hill 50k, when my excitement led to an early burnout. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I dig into the art of pacing in this episode of Choose to Endure. Reflecting on my own journey as a back-of-the-pack ultra runner, I

*Note: Hopefully it’s not too bad, but apologies for my last 10 minutes’ sound quality, I had a technical problem with the mic, but still wanted to keep the audio and chat going! In this episode of Choose to Endure, we spotlight the incredible Joni Watkins, a trailblazing ultra-runner from the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Her story is one of transformation and triumph, culmi

Imagine embarking on an ultra marathon where the finish line is not just a destination but a self-navigated and supported journey through breathtaking landscapes, and camaraderie trumps competition. Join me, Richard Gleave, as I unravel the allure of journey races—those epic point-to-point adventures that redefine traditional racing. On this episode of Choose to Endure, I share p