Fall Trail Classic Recap

In this episode of Pod on the Run, Ross and Petar are joined by returning guest Shawna Batham from Fleet Feet to recap the third annual Fall Trail Classic, held in Upper Bidwell Park. They kick things off with a warm welcome and a quick reintroduction to Shawna, teasing the highlights of the race weekend—including a fierce aid station competition, community energy, and early registration for next year’s event. The conversation dives into the race itself, covering the different race types, the vibe on the trails, and the weather that shaped the experience. Each host shares personal reflections on what stood out, from crowd energy to memorable moments on the course. Shawna offers insights into registration growth, notable runners, and stories from the field that made this year’s event especially meaningful. One of the most anticipated segments is the Aid Station Battle Royale, where stations competed for titles like Best Energy, Best Snacks, and Best Overall Experience. Shawna breaks what made the winning stations stand out. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the volunteers who bring the race to life. Behind the scenes, the team highlights the logistics that made the event possible—from trail prep led by the Upper Yahi cleanup crew to the coordination of volunteers and the support of sponsors. Shawna shares what went well, what could be improved, and lessons learned from this year’s race. Looking ahead, the episode previews what’s coming for the 2026 Fall Trail Classic, with registration already open. Shawna also shares updates on upcoming Fleet Feet programming, community runs, and ways listeners can get involved or volunteer. The episode wraps with a rapid-fire round where Shawna reveals her favorite moment from the weekend, describes the event in one word, and dreams up her ideal aid station theme. Ross, Petar, and Shawna close with reflections on the power of community, the joy of movement, and the importance of showing up. Whether you ran, volunteered, or cheered from the sidelines, this episode is packed with gratitude, stories, and a look at what’s next. Tune in, get inspired, and maybe start planning your own aid station theme for next year.