New England Endurance
Celebrating New England's thriving endurance sports culture.
Our mission is to passionately showcase and celebrate the vibrant endurance sports culture thriving in New England. Through engaging conversations, local endurance athletes (Art Trapotsis and Eric Schenker) embark on a journey to uncover the essence of the region's clubs, group rides, cherished routes, legendary races, and the devoted community of athletes who proudly call New England home.
From the exhilarating realms of road cycling to the rugged trails of mountain biking, from triathlons to ultramarathons, from open-water swimming to collegiate rowing, this podcast is a tribute to the challenges, victories, and compelling narratives that shape the endurance sports landscape in this distinctive part of the United States.
With a commitment to fostering connections, providing valuable insights, and igniting inspiration, we strive to unite, inform, and empower the New England endurance community.
New England Endurance
Tough Ruck: A Journey of Honor and Community
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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis speaks with Tough Ruck race director Sarah Sweeney and five-time participant Jeffrey Paolino about the unique endurance event known as Tough Ruck. They discuss the basics of rucking, the history and significance of the event, the experience of participants, training tips, and the impact of the event on military families. The conversation highlights the camaraderie, community support, and the mission behind Tough Ruck, which honors fallen service members while promoting physical fitness and mental health.
Key Takeaways:
- Race date is day before the Boston Marathon! (Sunday, April 20, 2025)
- Rucking is a weighted walking or jogging activity.
- Tough Ruck started in 2012 with 18 participants.
- The event honors fallen military and first responders.
- Participants carry the names of fallen heroes during the event.
- The event has grown to over 1,000 participants.
- Finishers receive Boston Marathon medals.
- Funds raised go to support military families.
- Participants experience camaraderie and motivation throughout the event.
- Tough Ruck is accessible to anyone who can walk.
Enjoy the episode and follow us on Instagram at @NewEnglandEndurance.
Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.
