Chris & Anne Barnwell: Creating Texas Trail Community

Join host Chris Detzel for an inspiring conversation with Chris and Anne Barnwell, the husband-and-wife team behind Blaze Trails Running, one of Texas's most beloved trail racing organizations.Discover how Chris transformed from a 245-pound tech worker to an ultra-runner whose first 100-miler was the legendary Western States, and how Anne found healing and purpose through running during her own life transitions. Their love story began at a running club, evolved over cake concerts and trail miles, and ultimately led them to create a trail running empire spanning 12 races across Texas.From taking over struggling races like Grasslands and Rockledge Rumble to building new challenges like the grueling Dana Peak course, the Barnwells share the behind-the-scenes reality of race directing—from permit struggles and weather cancellations to the incredible volunteer community that makes it all possible.Learn about their philosophy of making trail running accessible to everyone, from 5K newcomers to seasoned 100-mile veterans, and why they believe trail running creates a unique community where elite athletes and back-of-the-pack runners share the same trails and support each other's journeys.Whether you're a seasoned ultra-runner or someone curious about getting into trail running, this episode offers insights into the passion, dedication, and community spirit that drives the Texas trail running scene.Featured Races: Grasslands Trail Run, Rockledge Rumble, Dana Peak Challenge, Possum Kingdom Trail Run, and more.