About this episode
On this wild episode of the Free Outside Podcast, we talk with filmmaker Derrick Lytle and into everything Cocodona 250 — from race predictions and course changes to the strength-versus-speed debate heating up in the ultra scene. But first? We take on the internet’s most absurd hypothetical: could 100 men beat a silverback gorilla? (Spoiler: probably not.) We trade predictions on Courtney Dauwalter, Ryan Sandes, Mike McKnight, and more while roasting obstacle racers, dissecting mud strategies, and dreaming up the ultimate post-race media blitz. Expect hot takes, cold-weather prep, and plenty of laughs in this pre-race breakdown of one of the most exciting 200-milers of the year. Check out Derrick's Youtube Channel: @TheJuniperLab Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 03:00 The Gorilla Debate: Humans vs. Nature 06:01 Cocodona 250: Anticipation and Excitement 08:53 The Impact of the Courtney Effect 12:03 Women in Ultra Running: Breaking Barriers 15:07 Course Changes and Challenges in Cocodona 18:01 Weather and Its Influence on Performance 21:01 The Evolution of Ultra Running Competitors 23:57 CrossFit vs. High Rocks: A Lighthearted Comparison 25:25 Transitioning from CrossFit to Endurance Sports 26:26 Mike McKnight's Preparation for Cocodona 29:11 The Debate on Strength Training for Runners 30:25 DJ Fox: The Obstacle Course Racer's Edge 31:47 Predictions for Cocodona 250 33:27 Weather and Logistics Impacting Race Performance 35:51 The Competitive Landscape of Cocodona 250 38:10 Emerging Athletes and Dark Horses 40:06 Nutrition Strategies for Ultra Runners 42:23 Broadcasting Challenges at Cocodona 250 Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside Website: www.Freeoutside.com Instagram: thefreeoutside facebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside