<p>This episode features an incredible conversation with <strong>Alex Schultz</strong>, winner of this year’s <strong>Arizona Trail 800</strong> finishing in an <em>unbelievable 9 days and 10 hours! </em>This marks Alex’s <strong>third finish</strong> in the 800, following his <strong>win in 2023</strong> and <strong>second-place finish in 2024</strong>, and it also <strong>completes his 2025 Triple Crown Challenge</strong>. He wrapped up an unbelievable season that included finishing the <strong>Tour Divide</strong> in 16 days, 16 hours, and 27 minutes, and the <strong>Colorado Trail Race</strong> in 5 days, 2 hours, and 16 minutes.</p><p>With a <strong>new route</strong> rerouted with an out and back on the <strong>Grand Canyon</strong> and a <strong>Humphreys Peak summit</strong>, and finishing in Flagstaff, this year’s AZT 800 was one for the books. Alex and I dive into how the course differed from previous years due to the <strong>North Rim burn</strong>, the massive <strong>vert</strong>, and the <strong>harsh conditions</strong> that tested every racer on the trail AKA the COLD.</p><p>Despite freezing temps, long nights, and relentless climbing, Alex managed to hold strong and take the win by a huge margin. Every rider out there showed incredible grit, both mentally and physically — but Alex’s ride was truly something special.</p><p>This episode was totally <strong>spur of the moment</strong> — Alex had just come by to pick up his car from my place after finishing the race, and we figured, “Why not hit record?” What followed was a raw, inspiring conversation about endurance, mindset, and what it takes to push beyond your limits.</p><p><strong>Tune in, leave a comment, and share your thoughts —</strong> this one’s packed with stoke and respect for everyone who takes on the Arizona Trail.</p><p><br></p><p>Read more about Alex&#39;s journey on bikepacking.com: https://bikepacking.com/news/alex-schultz-wins-2025-aztr/</p><p><br></p><p>Follow Alex on Instagram: @schultzy954</p>