Elite Training Solutions

Happy 250th!

A month ago Doug mentioned that he wanted to ride 250 miles on the 250th. I thought that sounded like a cool idea and I had been wanting to do something big again after a couple years break from the bike. Despite the hot temps and time of year, we gave it a go. The biggest challenge besides the distance was the temps. Average for the day was 90 degrees with a max feel of 108 degrees and high humidity. We had a tailwind for most of the day, but that usually meant we were moving with little to no ventilation. I particularly remember climbing up texaco hill getting roasted. Once we got to the top and got a cross wind, it felt amazing. Shortly after we jumped into sharps creek for a full body soak around mile 110. We even enjoyed standing inside a beer freezer at the Casey’s in Cottonwood Falls. Due to the heat we took extra time indoors at gas stations at every opportunity. Unfortunately, we had to cut the ride short due to a huge thunderstorm about 45 miles from our goal finish at the Nebraska border. By that point I was beyond cracked, but wanted to try to finish. It wasn’t meant to be but I had a great time with Cassidy, Zak and Doug. I am grateful for our crew, Richard and Sherdell, they pulled a 24 hour day with us to make this happen. I can’t remember the last time I stayed up for 25 hours let alone ride 218 miles. To God be the glory for the opportunity and for the country we live in.

All of the athletes competing at Unbound Gravel got to experience Kansas weather at its best. Heavy thunderstorms, downpours, wind and heat all in one day over 100-200 miles. Congratulations to Tom Courtney and Jason for persevering and navigating the 106 mile course which included some hike a bike and heavy mud sections.
Additionally, I had the privilege of crewing three 200 mile athletes from Canada; Dan, Brad and Graham. They had reached out a few weeks ago after getting in last minute. Thankfully two of the three were able to finish and I know had the weather not been so intimidating all three would have. It was super inspiring to see everyone out there battling over extreme distances in extreme weather. Congratulations to all of you!

Run race recap from the last few weeks:
We had Kendall competing at the Prairie Fire Marathon 1/2 marathon finishing 5th place in his age group.
Rubi competed at the Bill Snyder Highway 1/2 marathon and finished with a 3 minute PB placing 5th overall female.
And Tom competed at the Little River 10k trail run finishing first in his age group.
Congratulations to all of these athletes. Their hard work and dedication is paying off and it’s fun to see them push themselves to new levels!

Had a great time running the aide station with friends and family at mile 8.5 during the Prairie Fire Marathon spring 1/2 marathon yesterday. My daughter Grace even joined for her first volunteering experience. She handed out Gatorade and gels and was excited every time someone took something from her. It was a beautiful day for a race and great job to all the runners out there!

Tanya Molleker competed at the Boston Marathon recently and finished with a strong performance. It was a particularly encouraging result as she had recently worked her way back from an injury. Despite a short buildup which included plenty of cross training, she was successful in finishing and running healthy. Congratulations and way to persevere!

Tom competed at Open Range Gravel Race 100k and rode a super strong race finishing in 1st in his age group and 5th overall on a beautiful course. Way to get it done!

Glenda ran the lap the lakes 5k last weekend. It’s part of a series of runs around the lakes in Omaha. As you complete each run you add pieces to your medal. Pretty cool idea. Nice job Glenda!

Tom competed in his first road race recently and ended up taking first place in his division. The 33 mile race took place on a windy day in the flint hills. Great work and congratulations!

is looking for volunteers for the spring 1/2 and 5k. If you have the time please sign up to volunteer. I am leading one of the aid stations and could use some help! Password to register: ETS2026Spring. Here is the link:

2026 Spring Prairie Fire & Back-to-Back Challenge Experience the 2026 Prairie Fire Race Series, presented by Davis-Moore Automotive Group! Runners who take on the Back 2 Back Challenge—completing both the Spring and Fall races—will earn an exclusive Prairie Fire Branded Puffy Vest, awarded at t...

Glenda and Darrin recently competed at the Early Bird 10-Mile (Glenda) and Easter Sun Run 10k (Darrin). Both had nice races and finished in the top three of their age groups. Great work to both!