Hello, free trial fam. Welcome back to the show. Of course, I am your loving host Dylan Bowman, joined today by one of my favorite young athletes in the game.

Caleb Olson, the 28-year-old ascendant pro living in Salt Lake City, who has been building quite a profile for himself, at least among people in the know here in North America.

Last year in particular put Caleb on the map when he qualified for Team USA at the World here in North America. Last year in particular, put Caleb on the map when he qualified

for Team USA at the World Championships in Austria. He also won a golden ticket at the Grindstone

100K and finished a very strong second place at Alter Trail, Cape Town being rewarded at the end of the

year with a fresh pro contract with Nike Trail.

Caleb kept the momentum going this season also with a string of solid early season races,

building towards a massive 100-mile debut at Western States, running 1440 for fifth place,

the fastest debut in the race's 50-year history, a great story from a day abundant with amazing

performances. Caleb and I barely knew each other before recording lists. In fact, it was basically

our first time ever chatting. I have become a big fan, and it was great to have him here on the show.

Some topics we discuss Caleb's mountaineering backgrounds and exploits.

We talk about the current momentum in the Salt Lake City trail scene,

something that's been really fun to follow.

We talk about his history of being self-coached and why that might change soon,

including what he looks for when evaluating potential coaches.

We talk about the importance of good partners in mountaineering and trail running and in life.

We talk about adapting to professional racing and rising to the occasion when it matters most.

We talk about Caleb Strong 2023 season, signing with Nike, his 2024 season, including his

amazing Western States debut. We talk about lessons around desire, motivation, having fun, and a lot

more. Before we get to the show, quick note on something new. We're doing it. Free Trail, Free Trail Unfiltered, a new podcast that we are now publishing for Free Trail Pro members,

discussing some of the hot topics in the sport, some of the things I avoid here in the main feed,

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