In this episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I take a deep dive into my experience at the Grand to Grand stage race, a grueling 171-mile journey through some of the most rugged and remote terrain in Arizona and Utah. The race is a self-supported, six-stage event that tests not just your endurance, but your mental toughness and resilience, as you carry all your food and gear on your back for an entire week. takeaways Packing light is crucial for long races. Medical clearance is necessary for serious races. Food planning can make or break your race. Embracing the adventure is key to enjoyment. Running with a pack requires practice and strategy. Mental resilience is as important as physical strength. Connecting with fellow racers enhances the experience. Heat management is vital in desert races. Post-race celebrations can be unexpectedly extravagant. Learning from each race helps improve future performance. Sound Bites "I was able to come out with second place." "It was really brutal. I learned a lot." "I had to get a medical clearance form." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Grand to Grand Stage Race 02:53 Preparation and Packing for the Race 06:03 The Start of the Adventure 08:55 Day One: The Challenges Begin 11:46 Day Two: Embracing the Experience 14:59 The Long Stage: Pushing Limits 21:07 Mid-Race Reflections and Strategies 24:53 Day Five: The Final Marathon 38:12 The Last Day: Finishing Strong 43:05 Post-Race Celebrations and Reflections keywords: Grand to Grand, stage race, ultra running, adventure, endurance, preparation, challenges, race recap, outdoor podcast, Jeff Garmire