Talking in Ovals

Lyle, Dave and Alex are joined by Corey Annan and Bakari Tice as we get set for another New Jersey high school XC season! We go over who we think will be the best for the boys and girls individually and team wise. We also cover and dark horses and potential breakout stars! It's going to be another great show with the experts. If you want the skinny on this upcoming season, you don't want to miss it.Make sure you like and follow the show!

Lyle, Dave and Alex are joined by John Grady, Distance Coach at Bishop Eustace Prep, and we cover wide range of topics.We start by finding out his spark for becoming a runner. We take a look at his memories and how is shaped him into the fan he is today. We then jump into his fandom and talk about the myriad of meets he's been to. He compares and contrasts the differences in the sport from Europe to America. Lastly, we get his opinion on the state of the sport. Are we in good shape? What can we improve upon? If you're a fan of track you won't want to miss this one. Between over two decades of experiences as a coach and fan, John Grady delivers a great show. Make sure you like and follow the show!

In Episode 203 of Talking in Ovals, former competitive runner, reluctant lawyer, and youth track coach Bobby Papazian joins us to share the spark that ignited his athletics journey, standout memories from his career, insights from witnessing Mary Cain’s rise (including the people and dynamics around her), and his take on the health of the sport today along with the changes shaping it.Bobby Papazian:  https://www.instagram.com/bobbyppz  https://www.hunterdonlionstc.org/announcements/278097/introducing-hlxc-cross-country  https://www.gklegal.com/attorneys/robert-j-papazian/

Episode 202 of Talking in Ovals brings Lyle, Dave and Alex together with Ben Andrus, the standout distance runner who just wrapped an unforgettable career at Haddonfield Memorial High School. From the moment the fire first lit in him to chase the clock and the pack, Ben has collected memories that stretch across seasons of breakthroughs, team glory, and personal grit. We dig into those early sparks and the moments that still stick with him, then turn to what it really felt like balancing individual ambitions inside one of New Jersey’s most dominant programs. Ben opens up about stepping into leadership, carrying the weight of expectations while lifting the guys around him, and finding the right balance between personal bests and team titles.Looking ahead, the conversation shifts to the decision that sent him to Boston College, how far he sees himself going in the sport, and the deeper ways running has shaped the person he is becoming. Through a year that tested him with a sudden, life-threatening heart condition from Lyme carditis and the heartbreaking loss of his father just days before one of his biggest races, Ben kept showing up. The resilience that carried him back to the track and onto the podium at places like the Penn Relays and the Meet of Champions is the same quiet strength that will define whatever comes next.This one is about more than splits and medals. It is about the heart of a runner who refuses to quit. Ben's Instagram - @ben.andrus

Welcome to Episode 201 of Talking in Ovals with your hosts Lyle Smith, Dave Hyatt, and Alex Cuesta.In this episode, we are joined by legendary sports writer Jim Lambert and NJ running legend Andy Martin for a deep dive into one of the most ambitious New Jersey track and field projects ever published.We break down Jim Lambert's recent article for NJ MileSplit, where he ranked the top 250 New Jersey Cross Country and Track & Field athletes of all-time, featuring 125 boys and 125 girls.Together, we discuss: * The standouts, legends, and criteria behind the top 250 list * Notable names left off the list and the reasons behind those tough cuts * Active athletes currently competing who have the potential to crack a future edition of the listRead Jim Lambert's full article on NJ MileSplit here:https://nj.milesplit.com/articles/710229/celebrating-250-of-the-best-njtfxc-athletes-of-all-timeMake sure to like, comment, and subscribe to the channel for more track, field, and cross country coverage. Let us know in the comments who you think belongs on the list.

Episode 200 of Talking in Ovals is here!We’re celebrating a massive milestone: 200 episodes of conversations about track, field, and everything in the world of athletics with Lyle Smith, Dave Hyatt and Alex Cuesta!In this special episode we kick things off with a full roundup and our honest takes on the 2026 USATF Outdoor Nationals (held at Icahn Stadium in New York). The performances, the storylines, the surprises, and what it all means heading into the rest of the season.Then we dig into the archives and each share our Top 5 Episodes from the very beginning of the show all the way to now, looking back at the guests, the moments, and the conversations that have defined Talking in Ovals over the years.Whether you’ve been with us since episode 1 or just hopped on recently, this one’s for the whole community. Thanks for listening, watching, and supporting the show all the way to 200!Drop a comment with your favorite episode or biggest takeaway from the USATF Outdoor Nationals. We want to hear from you!Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode.Follow us for more track and field talk.YouTube: @TalkingInOvalsAnd check out the full podcast wherever you listen!#TalkingInOvals #Episode200 #USATF #TrackAndField #Athletics #USATFOutdoorNationals #TrackTalk

In this episode, we break down the electric Kerr Mile Record performance l, our full reaction to the historic run, whether any current competitors can re-break it soon, smart marketing angles to sell the story (and the shoe), plus highlights from the other standout races at the meet.We also sit down with Kutztown Coach Ray Hoffman for an inside look at the his journey: the spark that ignites a passion for running, and the unforgettable memories that shape a career from the early days to now.Plus, a deep dive into Coaching at Kutztown University (DII level): the unique challenges of building a program, how roster limits, NIL, the transfer portal, and the upcoming age limit are reshaping college athletics, and exactly what kind of athletes they’re recruiting to thrive in today’s landscape.Whether you’re a runner, coach, parent, or track & field fan, this conversation delivers raw insights, inspiration, and real talk on the evolving sport we love.Join the conversation in the comments: Could the Kerr Mile Record fall again this season? What’s your favorite track memory?If you enjoy authentic stories from the oval, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE to Talking in Ovals for more NJ & national track & field coverage, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. Drop your questions for future guests below!#TrackAndField #KerrMile #KutztownTrack #CollegeAthletics #RunningCommunity #NIL #TrackCoach

We have a special announcement right off the top to lead the show! This will change the show forever in the best way.The we talk about the mile record attempt by Josh Kerr and much more! Make sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to the show!

Join us as we sit down with Stella Blanchard, Wilberforce XC and Track standout, NJ MOC Runner-Up in the 800, national finalist, and All-American. Stella takes us through her athletic journey, from the moment she caught the running spark to the unforgettable memories that have shaped her path so far.We discuss her breakout year on the rise, the key changes in training, mindset, nutrition, and sleep that fueled her big improvements, and how she’s handling the extra national spotlight that comes with elite times.Stella also opens up about how competing in the ultra-competitive New Jersey scene prepared her for the national stage, and whether that tough daily competition was the secret to her success.Finally, we look ahead to next season: her big goals and how she feels about carrying the target as one of the top returners.If you love inspiring high school to college track stories and athlete development, this episode delivers. Like, subscribe, and tell us what you think in the comments!

On this episode, we’re joined by Jim Lambert of NJ MileSplit and Corey Annan and Bakari Tice of NJ.com for a deep dive into the current state of high school and college track and field.We start with the new NCAA age rule. What are their first impressions? Will it actually fix anything? And what other changes would they like to see?Then we break down the NJ Meet of Champions: the biggest surprises, the standout performances, and the underclassmen everyone should be watching next season.Finally, we talk about the explosion of national meets. How did New Jersey athletes perform across all the big ones? What are the overall impressions? And is this model of having hundreds of “Nationals” sustainable long term?If you’re into New Jersey track and field, high school athletics, or the future of the sport, this episode is packed with expert insight.Like, subscribe, and drop a comment with your thoughts on the new NCAA rule!

In this episode, we sit down with Summer Wilson, Irvine HS national standout, national record holder, California State Champion, and Duke commit. Summer shares her athletic journey, from the spark that turned her into a runner to the standout memories that have defined her career so far.We talk about the intense California gauntlet: the benefits of competing in one of the toughest states in the country, balancing state titles with national goals, and how those grueling races have prepped her for Nike Outdoor Nationals.Plus, Summer opens up about battling shin splints this season, the physical and mental challenges, the adjustments she and her team made, and how she kept expectations high through it all.If you love inspiring high school track stories and elite athlete insights, this one is a must watch.Summer Wilson Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summerwilsonofficial  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@summerbwilsonLike, subscribe, and drop a comment!

We sit down with Dave Alfano, co-founder and co-owner of Trials of Miles, to talk about what it has been like scaling the company, running more events, and how big he sees it growing in the future.We also dive into the controversial Enhanced Games. What does Dave think of them? Will they ever become huge, and should athletes who compete in them still be allowed back in the Olympics?Plus, we discuss the wild talent coming out of high school track right now, whether Team USA will dominate again this Olympics, and if an age limit in college could help American high schoolers land better recruits.Follow Trials of Miles Racing:Instagram:@trialsofmilesracing@trialsofmilesracingnj@trialsofmilesracingtf

In this powerful episode of Talking in Ovals, we sit down with James Logan, IRONMAN triathlete, endurance beast, and Stage 4 cancer survivor who refuses to slow down.James opens up about the spark that turned him into a runner, his greatest memories on the track and roads, and how a devastating cancer diagnosis rocked his world and his family’s. But instead of giving up, he doubled down; adjusting his training, mindset, and life to keep chasing miles and podiums.We dive deep into his inspiring book and foundation “Just Keep Tri-Ing,” the mission behind it, the incredible support pouring in, and what he wants to accomplish with the time he has left.This isn’t just another athlete interview. It’s a masterclass in resilience, grit, and choosing to live fully no matter what life throws at you.🎯 Topics Covered:- The moment he caught the running bug- Epic memories from his athletic journey- How the Stage 4 diagnosis hit him and his family mentally- Training & lifestyle changes after cancer- The story behind “Just Keep Tri-Ing” book & foundation- His biggest goals moving forwardWhether you’re a runner, triathlete, cancer fighter, or just need a massive dose of motivation, this episode will fire you up.If James Logan’s story moves you, smash that LIKE button, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode packed with real talk from the athletic world.#JamesLogan #IRONMAN #Stage4Cancer #CancerSurvivor #Triathlon #EnduranceAthlete #JustKeepTriIng #RunningMotivation #AthleteInterview

In this episode, we sit down with Alexandra Klein, Shore Regional’s standout junior distance runner, and her coach Jack Tarpey to talk about what it really takes to build a successful program at a smaller school.We dive into Alexandra’s journey, from the moment she caught the running bug to the highs and memories that have shaped her so far. We also explore how small-school athletes often compete with a serious chip on their shoulder, the power of team culture, and what it takes to thrive when you’re punching above your weight at the highest levels.Plus, we break down social media’s impact on the running community, the good, the bad, and how athletes can actually use it to their advantage without getting lost in the noise.If you love authentic stories from high school track & field, this one’s for you.Guest Links:Shore Regional XC & Trackhttps://www.instagram.com/shore_track_xcAlexandra KleinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandra_klein09  Strava: https://strava.app.link/drw9B8v6o3bThanks for watching! If you enjoyed the episode, drop a like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss a new one. Follow us for more running conversations! #TrackAndField #HighSchoolRunning #DistanceRunning #SmallSchoolAthletes

Dave and Alex welcome Austin Willis on the show and he shares his athletics journey and expert jumps coaching advice.We cover:- Long Jump vs Triple Jump training differences- What makes a great jumper- Tips for jumpers who are struggling- How sprinter-jumpers should balance their training split- Handling pushback from sprints coachesPerfect for high school athletes, jumpers, and track coaches looking to improve.If you want better jumps, smarter training, and real coaching insights, watch now!#Track and field #LongJump #TripleJump #JumpsTraining #SprintTraining #TrackCoach #HighSchoolTrackLike, subscribe, and comment your biggest takeaway! 🏃‍♂️

In this episode, we sit down with Karl Torchia, Head Track & Field Coach at Christian Brothers Academy and one of the most respected coaches in the sport. With decades of experience building championship programs, Karl shares his journey from the spark that ignited his passion for athletics to the unforgettable memories that shaped his legendary career.We dive into:- The secrets behind CBA’s remarkable longevity and sustained success- How the program has adapted to the rapidly evolving landscape of track & field- The impact of new NCAA rules on helping athletes reach their dream colleges- How NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) is affecting high school and college programs- Whether modern technology and gear are helping or hurting the sportA must-watch conversation for coaches, athletes, parents, and track & field fans who want real insight into the current state of the sport from someone who’s lived it at the highest level.🔥 Subscribe for more coaching wisdom, athlete stories, and behind-the-scenes looks at competitive track & field! Download the College Path App on the Google Play Store and Apple Store!www.collegepathapp.com#TrackAndField #CoachKarlTorchia #CBATrack #NIL #NCAA #HighSchoolTrack

In this episode, we sit down with standout senior athlete Ace Etienne and his coaches Michaela Read and Evan Kainer from Manasquan High School. Ace opens up about his journey from the spark that ignited his love for sprinting and jumping, to his favorite memories on the track.He also shares a raw and honest look at overcoming a significant injury — the physical rehab, the tougher mental battle, and why a strong support system is everything when returning to competition.Finally, Ace discusses his college decision, offers practical advice for athletes navigating the recruiting process, reveals his planned major, and talks about his athletic and life goals beyond high school.Whether you're a young athlete, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with motivation, real talk, and valuable insights.🎯 Subscribe for more inspiring athlete stories!👍 Like if you enjoyed the episode💬 Drop a comment: What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your athletic journey?

Joining us is Jim Lambert, Senior Writer for NJ MileSplit, for a deep dive into the biggest stories in New Jersey high school track & field!In this episode:- Penn Relays Day 1 recap: how it went and which NJ athletes are shining brightest- Indoor season wrap-up: biggest reactions, surprises, and standout performances- Outdoor season preview: athletes to watch and early favorites for the Meet of ChampionsIf you’re a track fan in NJ or beyond, this is a must-watch for all the latest insights straight from one of the best in the business.Drop your questions and predictions in the comments! 👇Subscribe for more NJ track & field coverage every week!#PennRelays #NJTrack #HighSchoolTrack #MileSplit #OutdoorSeason

In this episode, we sit down with Nicol Traynor Starkes, Associate Head Coach of Cross Country and Track & Field at Rutgers University.Nicol shares her personal athletics journey, from the spark that ignited her passion for running and jumping to her favorite memories across a decorated career as both an athlete and now a top college coach.We dive deep into the rapid rise of the Rutgers distance program: what’s fueling their growing success, how they stay competitive in the tough Big Ten conference, and how recent rule changes have reshaped recruiting and athlete retention.Plus, Nicol gives her honest take on the current state of the sport, new training philosophies, emerging technology, and her thoughts on Grand Slam Track’s attempt to shake up the professional side of track & field.Whether you’re a runner, coach, or fan of college athletics, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and real talk about where the sport is headed.Nicol's X: @ntraynor12Nicol's Instagram: @coachtraynor_rutgersTune in now!

In this episode, we sit down with Chuck Schneekloth, Founder and Director of the Garden State Track Club, to explore what it takes to build a thriving track & field career.Chuck shares:• The spark that ignited his lifelong passion for running and jumping• His favorite memories from decades in the sport• Why he created the Garden State Track Club and how clubs dramatically benefit both athletes and school teams• What every prospective club athlete should know before joiningPlus, we tackle the big debate:• Are relays really necessary in track & field?• The pros and cons of relays for athletes and teamsWhether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete looking to take your track career to the next level, this conversation delivers valuable insights you won’t want to miss.🔥 Subscribe for more track & field stories and expert advice!Guest: Chuck Schneekloth – Founder & Director, Garden State Track Club#TrackAndField #TrackClub #Running #Relays #Athletics

This week on Talking in Ovals, we sit down with Andy Martin — a true New Jersey track and field legend, former Holmdel Park record holder, and one of the most influential figures in endurance sports today.Andy takes us back to the very beginning of his journey, sharing the spark that ignited his passion for running and the unforgettable memories that shaped his career from his early days as a standout athlete through his rise as an all-time NJ great.We dive deep into his current work as an executive in endurance sports, exploring his key roles with USATF and the iconic BOLDERBoulder race. Andy reveals how USATF is evolving to grow the sport of athletics, the history behind his long-standing involvement with one of America’s most legendary 10K events, and what the future holds for track and field at every level.We also tackle the current state of the sport — what’s working, what needs to change, and the critical challenge of recruiting and retaining more officials to keep meets running smoothly across the country.Whether you’re a runner, coach, parent, or simply a fan of the sport, this conversation delivers inspiration, insider perspective, and actionable ideas for the future of athletics.Tune in for a powerful discussion with a man who has lived the sport as both an elite competitor and a key leader helping shape its next chapter.

Dave and Alex welcome Corey Annan and Bakari Tice back on the show and we recap the NJ Indoor Track season and preview the Outdoor season!

Dave and Alex welcome Joe Compagni back to the show and we talk about the World Indoor Championships, the current state of collegiate track and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Brian Gould and Kurt Wayton to the show as we talk about their running journeys, building a team culture and the value of leadership!

Dave and Alex welcome Dr. Bill Evans onto the show and we talk about his running journey, the science of training and the performance boom!

Dave and Alex welcome Ashley Higginson on the show and we talk about her running journey, transitioning from pro running and how she feels about track today!

Dave and Alex welcome Brian Prendergast back to the show and we talk about success at Manalapan, building a culture and current events in the sport!

Dave and Alex welcome Quincy Watts to the show and we talk about his running journey, building a program and his current view on the health of the sport!

Dave and Alex welcome Dominique Smith to the show and we talk about his running journey, the Lactic Acid Podcast and the state of the sport!

Dave and Alex welcome Lyle Smith back to the show and we talk about the role of coaches, reminiscing and looking forward to the Millrose Games, NCAA Rules and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Jeff Benjamin back to the show and we talk about the passing of the legendary Fred Dwyer, the 2026 World XC Championships and the upcoming Millrose Games!

Dave and Alex welcome Sean McCafferty back to the show as we talk about this past XC season, team culture, national expectations and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Dave Slavinski to the show and we talk about his athletics journey, have a high level running family and his training methods!

Dave and Alex welcome Paige Sheppard to the show and we talk about her running journey, individual vs team success, XC vs Track and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Steve Williams back onto the show as we continue the conversation about his time as a runner, Grand Slam Track filing for bankruptcy and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Cali Buxbaum to the show and we talk about her running journey, training without a track and the value of cross training!

Dave and Alex welcome Zig Ziegler back on the show and we get some updates of Z Athlete Village and WITFL, myths about track and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Rob DeFilippis on the show and we talk about his running journey, owning Runner's High shoe store and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Chris Tafelski back to the show and we talk about Westfield's XC season, expectations for indoor, the growing influence of the NIL and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Corey Annan and Bakari Tice onto the show and we talk about their athletics journeys, NJ XC and Track and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Jim Lambert back to the show and we go over his past predictions, preview NJ MOCs and look ahead to indoor track!

Dave and Alex welcome Steve Williams to the show and we talk about his running journey, competing in the 1970's and the current state of track!

Dave and Alex welcome Dianne DeOliveira on the show and we talk about her running journey, starting Bella N Motion and women in athletics!

Dave and Alex welcome Jeff Benjamin back on the show as we talk about the 2025 SIRA Legend's Gala along with many other topics in athletics!

Alex welcomes Lauren Primerano on the show and we talk about her athletics journey, running the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex, the Athlos Meet and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Carrie Ellwood to the show and we talk about her running journey, and the differences between competing on the track vs road vs course!

Dave and Alex welcome Carson Gambaro onto the show and we talk about his running journey, track and field commentary and results from Tokyo World Athletics Championships!

Dave and Alex welcome Phil Grove back to the show and we talk about everything going on at the World Athletic Championships in Tokyo, Japan!

Dave and Alex welcome Amanda Marino to the show and we talk about her running journey, running as a mother and women in track!

Dave and Alex welcome Courtney Decker to the show and we talk about her running journey, balancing life and running and more!