Kieran Nay | The Highs and Lows of the Professional Trail Runner

Send us Fan MailKieran Nay takes us through his inspiring journey from Colorado Springs to Gunnison, sharing his experiences and achievements at races like the Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon. We explore the often-overlooked trails in Palmer Lake and delve into the local legends that have shaped his running career. Kieran also sheds light on his upcoming challenges at the Broken Arrow Sky Race and GoPro Games.Facing the uncertainty of a sesamoid injury, Kieran opens up about the physical and emotional hurdles he encountered during recovery. He recounts consultations with top medical professionals and the difficult process of redefining his identity beyond running. Balancing graduate school and exploring alternative activities like mountain biking, Kieran's story is one of resilience and determination. His emotional comeback at races like the Pikes Peak Ascent highlights the enduring competitive spirit that keeps him moving forward.Our conversation also takes us to the vibrant outdoor culture of Gunnison, Colorado, where high-altitude training and a supportive community create a unique environment for athletes. We discuss the camaraderie among local talents like Lindsay Herman, Maddie Hart, and Cam Smith, and the impressive performances at races like Desert Rats. From course confusion to unexpected encounters with top marathoners, this episode is packed with compelling stories of athletic triumph and personal growth.Kieran Nay IG - @kieran_nayUse code SteepStuff for 20% your cart on Sidas.usFollow James on IG - @jameslaurielloFollow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_podFollow Sidas USA on IG - @sidas_usa