About this episode
Send us a text Discover the fascinating journey of Tom Hooper, the driving force behind 603 Endurance, as he takes us through his unexpected rise to becoming a key figure in the mountain running community. Hear firsthand how Tom transformed a modest run club into a thriving hub of trail enthusiasts and explore his transition from road races to organizing iconic events like the Loon Mountain Race. Tom's passion for nurturing new talent shines as he shares his vision for beginner-friendly races and his experiences hosting USATF National Championships, offering an insider's perspective on the dynamic New England racing scene. Why haven't sub-ultra races captured the American imagination like their ultra counterparts? Join us as we examine the allure of ultra races, likened to luxury cars, and contrast this with Europe's appreciation for sub-ultra events. We dissect the role of sponsorship money in shaping race popularity and discuss potential strategies to elevate sub-ultra races in the United States. With insights on the growing interest in classic mountain races and vertical kilometers in locations like Colorado, this discussion is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about the evolution of trail running. Step into the complex world of race selection and team dynamics with our deep dive into the logistical challenges faced by organizers and athletes alike. From the intricacies of selection criteria for prestigious events to the role of advanced technologies in race coverage, we uncover the multifaceted nature of ultra-running. Learn about the efforts of individuals like Nancy and Richard in promoting grassroots races amid the trend of race consolidation, and the impact of live streaming in bringing the sport to a broader audience. This episode is a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of trail running. Tom Hooper Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tomhooper603/?hl=en Tom Hooper Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhooper Six03 Endurance - https://six03endurance.com/ Loon Mountain Race - https://six03endurance.com/loonmountainrace Sunapee Scramble - https://six03endurance.com/sunapeescramble Sunapee Scramble Signup - https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=120665 Sunapee Elite Athlete Entry - https://six03endurance.com/sunapeescramble#elite Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your cart at UltimateDirection.com !