June 27, 2025
Young, Fit, and Ready for the Pain Cave at Western States 100: Hans Troyer’s Journey
For The Long Run: Exploring the Why Behind RunningAbout this episode
When your motto is “young and fit,” what does it look like to train for Western States? Hans Troyer is a 25 year old pro ultrarunner who set the course record at the Bandera 100k in 2024 and who finished second at the 2025 Canyons 100k, earning him a Golden Ticket to the Western States 100. Listen to hear about: Discovering the trail scene and becoming a pro runner The draw of the pain cave and suffering Preparation for Western States 100 Hans’ fueling and nutrition strategies on and off the course The brands Hans loves Stay connected: Hans on Instagram: instagram.com/hanstroyer Hans on YouTube: youtube.com/@HansIsYoungAndFit THE KID documentary: youtube.com/watch?v=ZZmeB4qub_U Find Hans Troyer on Strava For The Long Run Podcast on Instagram: instagram.com/forthelrpod Jon Levitt on Instagram: instagram.com/jwlevitt Join the For The Long Run email community: for-the-long-run.beehiiv.com This episode is supported by: Pillar : If you’re looking to step up your performance, check out PILLAR at TheFeed.com and use FTLR for 15% off your first purchase. GOES : Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES —the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan. GOES+ gives you access to the rewards program, plus much more additional medical content and our emergency assessment tool! Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org . Visit Leadville: So you think you know Leadville? Lake County has so much more to offer year-round than just the 100 miler in the summer. If you’re thinking of getting away, highly recommend booking a trip to Leadville to get up into the mountains, eat yummy food, and play outside. Check out more of what Leadville has to offer here!