In this episode of the Art and Science of Running podcast, we chat with Gary Robbins about running professionally, coaching, and race directing amidst the current coronavirus crisis. Specifically, we discuss virtual racing, reciprocity with partners, fellow race directors, and runners.
Gary has become a household name in the sport of trail and ultrarunning, but long before the Barkley Marathon, Gary was setting FKTs, course records at iconic races such as the HURT 100, and establishing himself as one of the best in the sport.
Perhaps, what makes Gary so endearing, however, is his humble, affable, authentic nature. In this episode, we dive into what makes Gary who he is and what he does to preserve his humanity, authenticity, and ability to be present.
Being Present by Setting Boundaries & Saying No
Anyone who has spent time with Gary – even if it is listening to an interview, or attending a speaking series, or watching him on the big screen recognizes his presence. Gary has the ability to be present in large groups while somehow also making each individual feel like he is present for them. He is present for his family, his wife, Linda, and son, Reed. He is present for his friends. He is present for the athletes he coaches. He is present for the thousands of runners who run his races and present for the millions of fans around the world who have watched his videos on YouTube.
We asked Gary how he is able to maintain such presence while ensuring that he is also caring for himself. Gary attributes his ability to be present with his ability to set and maintain boundaries. Especially after the Barkley Marathon 2017, Gary had to learn to say no so that he could continue to say yes to the people and commitments closest to him. In turn, this has enabled Gary to be who he needs to be to the myriad people who want him to be present.
This was Gary’s second podcast in three years despite countless requests to do so. He broke the silence recently on the Well – the show of fellow ultrarunner, Dylan Bowman. We are grateful that Gary took the time to connect with us and share some insight into what is currently motivating him and inspiring him to continue to lead our community.
Reciprocity
Gary stands out as a leader amongst race directors with his efforts to build community and establish ties of reciprocity. His recent initiative, Support Local, is not simply a means to keep his race series, Coast Mountain Trail Running, afloat, but an effort to rally the greater running community behind all local race organizers. This emphasis on community and reciprocity is not new for Gary or those who know him.
In addition to putting on world class events like the Squamish 50, Gary has organized film screenings and speaking tours assembling some of the biggest names and brightest personalities in the sport while bringing the community together, filling up theaters, to celebrate the sport. These events are not under the banner of Gary’s race series, but under the greater banner of trail and ultrarunning. Gary goes out of his way to bring other race directors and coaches into these events. As fellow coaches and race directors, we are beneficiaries and grateful to Gary for his emphasis on building community.
Find Out More
More on the Support Local initiative and how you can support your local races: SUPPORT LOCAL
More about the decision to cancel or postpone races for 2020: COVID 19 UPDATE
Coaching services that Gary provides: Ridgeline Athletics
Gary’s race series and the World Famous Squamish 50: COAST MTN TRAIL SERIES
Shout Outs and Social Media
Intro and outro music GOIN 4 A WALK by Dallin Puzey. Now available on Apple Music and Spotify.
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