Rea Kolbl | Professional Mountain Runner & Olympic Skimo Hopeful

The Steep Stuff Podcast

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Join us for a thrilling conversation with ski mountaineering and mountain running legend, Rea Kolbl , as she shares her remarkable journey through her 2023 and 2024 seasons. From her ambitious goal of making the Slovenian Olympic team for ski mountaineering to her recent return to Europe, Rea brings a wealth of experience and passion to this episode. We explore the grueling challenges of the Cirque Series race in Brighton, discuss breathtaking wildlife encounters, and reflect on the intricacies of technical running. Ray’s insights offer a unique window into the life of a dedicated mountain athlete, making this an episode you won't want to miss.
In an inspiring segment, we delve into the transformation of a former gymnast who found her stride in trail running and obstacle course racing. Her move from Slovenia to the United States for college brought about cultural shocks and new opportunities, leading her to Boulder, Colorado, where she discovered a supportive community that fueled her athletic pursuits. We also discuss her impressive academic achievements in physics, astrophysics, and material science, and how these have shaped her coaching techniques. This segment highlights the resilience required to overcome personal challenges and the power of community in achieving new athletic heights.
We then shift gears to discuss the intricacies of winter training and summer adventures, examining the balance between structured Olympic training and spontaneous mountain escapades. The conversation covers the physical and mental transitions between sports seasons, the unique aspects of ski mountaineering entering the Olympic stage, and the importance of training intensity at various altitudes. Wrapping up with a look at sky races, competitive drive, and the advantages of being based in Europe, this episode is brimming with valuable insights for both aspiring and seasoned athletes. Tune in for an episode filled with passion, expertise, and the spirit of adventure.
Rea Kolbl IG - @reakolbl

Capitole

1. Mountain Athlete Ray Coble Interview (00:00:00)

2. Transition From Gymnast to Trail Runner (00:07:01)

3. Winter Training and Summer Adventures (00:14:23)

4. Olympic Selection and Schema Racing (00:18:59)

5. Athlete Transition Europe Training Sponsorship (00:29:30)

6. Professional Trail Runner Discusses OCR Background (00:35:46)

7. Sky Races and Competitive Drive (00:44:54)

8. Wildlife Encounters and Astrophysics Musings (00:49:28)