Caveman Challenge: Jeff Colgrove of Caveman Endurance shares a look at his BRAND NEW RACE in Denison, TX!

 What if you could push your physical and mental limits to achieve incredible feats? In our latest episode of Choose to Endure, we sit down with ultramarathon runner Jeff Colgrove, who shares his transformative journey from high school runner to ultra-endurance athlete. Jeff recounts how his quest to shed pounds led to a passion for running that evolved from half marathons to tackling the grueling world of ultramarathons. Jeff's story is filled with monumental achievements, including his awe-inspiring attempt to run 226 miles in a 100-hour event and his pursuit of a sub-24-hour 100-mile finish.

Jeff's insights extend beyond running; he delves into his new role as a race director with the creation of the Caveman Challenge at Waterloo Lake Park. We discuss the meticulous planning, community support, and personal drive that brought the event to life. From guerrilla marketing strategies to engaging with local runners, Jeff reveals the behind-the-scenes efforts that make organizing a race both challenging and rewarding. Learn about the unique features of Waterloo Lake Park, the diverse race distances on offer, and how the pandemic played a pivotal role in igniting Jeff's passion for race organizing.

Finally, we explore the impact of music on Jeff's running experiences, specifically his favorite track, "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen. Discover how this iconic song fuels Jeff's runs and the timeless magic of Freddie Mercury's performance. We wrap up by inviting listeners to engage with us on social media and join the upcoming Caveman Challenge Race in October. Tune in for a captivating conversation that highlights the spirit of endurance, the power of community, and the joy of running.

Jeff Colgrove's journey into the world of ultrarunning began with a desire to lose weight. As a high school runner who drifted away from the sport, Jeff found himself needing a physical challenge to reclaim his health. Starting with a half marathon, Jeff quickly realized his competitive spirit wasn't satisfied with short distances. His curiosity about longer distances led him to ultramarathons, where he discovered a community of like-minded endurance enthusiasts.

One of the standout moments in Jeff's ultrarunning career was his attempt to run 226 miles in a 100-hour event. This grueling challenge tested both his physical stamina and mental resilience. Jeff's strategy involved pacing at 12-13 minute miles, alternating between water, electrolytes, salts, and sweets every few miles, and incorporating social interaction and mental resilience training, such as repetitive loops. Despite the tough conditions, Jeff's determination and preparation paid off, earning him an impressive 226-mile finish.

Transitioning from competitor to race director, Jeff's passion for ultrarunning took a new direction with the creation of the Caveman Challenge at Waterloo Lake Park. Inspired by the pandemic's impact on his running routine, Jeff sought to reignite a local race event that had been discontinued since 2020. Conversations with friends and race directors transformed his initial idea into a concrete plan, resulting in the birth of the Caveman Challenge. The race features various distances—5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, and 50K—making it inclusive for all skill levels. The scenic yet manageable trails of Waterloo Lake Park provide an ideal backdrop for the event.

Jeff's approach to race organizing involves meticulous planning and community engagement. He emphasizes the importance of guerrilla marketing strategies, leveraging social media, and fostering authenticity within the running community. The collaborative efforts with the city and local runners ensure that the Caveman Challenge is accessible and enjoyable for all participants. Jeff's commitment to creating a family-friendly environment with parks and activities further enhances the race experience.

Music plays a significant role in Jeff's running journey, with "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen serving as his ultimate motivation. The energetic and upbeat track syncs with Jeff's running pace, boosting his performance and adding a layer of enjoyment to his runs. The timeless appeal of Queen and Freddie Mercury's unmatched charisma as a frontman resonate deeply with Jeff, making the song an integral part of his running playlist.

In addition to his race directing efforts, Jeff shares his future aspirations for Caveman Endurance. He envisions hosting a few races annually, exploring different locations, and incorporating timed events. One such idea involves a four-mile trail along the shore of a lake in his hometown, offering various timed events ranging from four hours to 24 hours. Jeff's goal is to create opportunities for runners to achieve their goals while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

Throughout the episode, Jeff provides valuable advice for aspiring race directors. He encourages those with a passion for organizing races t