New England Endurance Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Art Trapotsis

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 athlete (Art Trapotsis) embarks 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 t...

The Buzzards Bay Coalition: Swimming, Cycling, and Fighting for Clean Water
#8
Last Thursday at 1:00 AM

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we chat with Marlissa Briggett and Scott Lajoie of the Buzzards Bay Coalition, a nonprofit that works to protect clean water in the region. 

We explore the connection between endurance sports and environmental stewardship by diving into two of the Coalition’s signature endurance events: the Buzzards Bay Swim, a 1.2-mile open water crossing of New Bedford Harbor, and the Watershed Ride, a scenic cycling event featuring distances up to 100 miles around Buz...


Richard Sachs on Craft, CYBC, RSCX, and New England Cyclocross
#7
04/23/2026

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Richard Sachs is one of the most respected names in American cycling craft, but this conversation goes far beyond framebuilding.

In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, Richard joins Art Trapotsis for a wide-ranging conversation about his journey from New Jersey to England to Connecticut, the founding of his company in the 70's, and the deeper meaning that has kept him building bicycles by hand for more than five decades.

They talk about what truly drives his...


The Boston Athletic Association: Beyond the Marathon
#6
04/08/2026

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis sits down with Chris Lotsbom, Director of Race Communications & Media at the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.), for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most iconic organizations in running.

While the B.A.A. is best known for organizing the Boston Marathon, this conversation reveals a much bigger story...one rooted in history, community, and a year-round commitment to the sport.

Chris shares how the...


Riding Cape Cod: Inside the Cape Cod Cycling Club’s Community, Rides & Coastal Routes
#5
03/26/2026

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we head down to one of the most iconic riding destinations in New England — Cape Cod.

Host Art Trapotsis sits down with Kim Pzegeo, President of the Cape Cod Cycling Club (otherwise known as C4), and Michele Kjoller, longtime member and board member, to explore how a small group ride with just a handful of cyclists grew into a thriving and welcoming cycling community.

We dive into the origins of th...


Inside the Craftsbury Outdoor Center with Olympian Susan Dunklee
#4
03/13/2026

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, Art Trapotsis sits down with Susan Dunklee — three-time Olympian, former World Championship medalist, and now Director of Biathlon and Head Junior Biathlon Coach at Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. Susan shares her journey from growing up in a Vermont ski family to discovering biathlon after college and eventually competing on the world stage in Sochi, PyeongChang, and Beijing.

The conversation dives into what makes biathlon such a unique and dema...


Inside New Balance’s Support for the New England Running Community
#3
03/04/2026

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New Balance has been part of the New England running culture for over a century. In this episode, Andy Downin shares how the company supports local races, builds relationships with run clubs, and creates events like New Balance Nationals and the Marathon Relay during Boston Marathon weekend. If you’re part of the region’s running scene, this conversation offers a fascinating look behind the curtain.

A New England native and former U.S. champion in the 1500 meters, Andy shares his jour...


The B2VT and VT Monster Cycling Epics
#2
02/10/2026

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis speaks with Skip Thomas and Karen Smyers about the B2VT Ride and the VT Monster gravel event. They discuss the origins of both rides, their evolution over the years, and the community that surrounds these endurance events. The conversation covers the challenges of the course, strategies for participants, and the importance of camaraderie in endurance sports. They also touch on the role of e-bikes, the significance of team spirit, and...


Ninety One Lines: Skiing the Presidentials with Ryan DeLena
#1
01/27/2026

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We’re launching Season 3 with a bang—and a blizzard.

In this premiere episode, we sit down with Ryan DeLena, the first person to ski all 91 lines in the Presidential Skiing guidebook, and the star and co-creator of the new documentary NINETY ONE, set to release this February 2026.

Ryan shares stories from his time navigating the moody terrain of New Hampshire’s Presidential Range, what it took mentally and physically to complete this historic project, and th...


Firefly Bicycles: Inside Custom Frame Design, Fit, and Carbon-Neutral Craft
#28
12/29/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Firefly Bicycles co-founders Tyler Evans and Kevin Wolfson to explore the craft, philosophy, and real-world decision-making behind world-class custom titanium bikes.

From geometry choices and material tradeoffs to bike fitting instincts honed in the peloton, Tyler and Kevin pull back the curtain on how Firefly designs bikes for how people actually ride. We dig into the myth of the “quiver killer,” why one b...


Inside CCB: How a 50-Year Cycling Team Is Changing the Game for Women Athletes
#27
12/10/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Tim Mitchell, Technical Director of the legendary CCB Cycling Education Foundation. With roots dating back to 1960s England and an official U.S. presence since 1976, CCB is the longest-running elite cycling program in the country. But it's more than just race results—it's a movement centered on Education Through Athletics.

Tim shares the deeply human story behind CCB's evolution—from its historic origins with and notable alumni (like Tim...


Andrew Drummond: The Story Behind White Mountain Ski Co and FKTs in the Whites
#26
11/25/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Andrew Drummond—founder of White Mountain Ski Company and the man behind some of the region’s most iconic events and endurance feats.

Andrew recently completed the White Mountains Direttissima—connecting all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-footers in a single unsupported push. That’s 231 miles and 86,000 feet of climbing in just 4 days, 22 hours, and 43 minutes, setting a new fastest known time (FKT). We unpack how trench foot, tendon pain, and...


Kelly Brush: Leading the Charge in Adaptive Endurance Sports
#25
11/14/2025

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In this inspiring episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Kelly Brush, founder of the Kelly Brush Foundation, and a former collegiate ski racer turned national advocate for adaptive sports. After a life-altering crash in 2006 left her paralyzed from the chest down, Kelly founded the Kelly Brush Foundation to empower others with spinal cord injuries to live active, engaged lives through sport and recreation.

Kelly shares her personal journey from rehab to riding again on...


Stage 1 Cycling: Connecticut's Community-Built Cycling Team
#24
11/03/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Brooks Nablo and Jacob Kravitz of Stage 1 Cycling, a community-built cycling club based in Connecticut that’s making big waves in the local scene.

Brooks, the club’s President and head coach of the juniors team, shares how stepping into a leadership role transformed not only the young athletes he mentors but his own perspective on racing and life. Jacob, a board member, announcer, co-p...


Justin Spinelli: From Pro Cycling to Relaunching Luxe Wheelworks
#23
10/17/2025

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In this episode we interview Justin Spinelli, a former professional cyclist and current entrepreneur behind Luxe Wheelworks by Gruppo Spinelli. Justin shares his journey from a young bike mechanic in New Hampshire to racing in prestigious events like the Giro d'Italia. He discusses the challenges he faced, including burnout in professional cycling, and how he found joy in cyclocross racing. Justin also delves into the founding of Luxe Wheelworks, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship and community in building high-quality, customizable wheels for cyclists...


Inside the Velomont Project: Vermont Huts & Trails’ Vision for a 485-Mile Mountain Bike Network
#22
10/08/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis talks with RJ Thompson, Executive Director of Vermont Huts & Trails, about the Velomont Project — an ambitious effort to create a 485-mile, hut-supported trail network spanning the length of Vermont.

Designed to modern mountain bike standards and open to hikers, runners, and backcountry travelers, the Velomont aims to connect communities, fuel rural economies, and redefine outdoor recreation in th...


Millennium Running: The Cheap Marathon, Big Dreams, and the 603’s Running King (John Mortimer)
#21
08/14/2025

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In this episode we sit down with John Mortimer — founder and CEO of Millennium Running, former professional runner, and one of New England’s most dynamic race organizers. John takes us from his early days as a decorated athlete to the creation of Millennium Running, a company that now produces over 30 signature events annually, operates a vibrant retail store, manages a running club, and has helped raise more than $2 million for local charities.

We explore the origins of the Millennium Mile, how...


Climbing the Rockpile: The Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb
#20
08/04/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance podcast, hosts Art Trapotsis and Eric Schenker sit down with Lisa McCoy, event director of the iconic Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb (MWARBH). Known affectionately as “The Rockpile,” this race challenges cyclists with 7.6 miles of relentless climbing, an average grade of 12%, and the ever-unpredictable weather of Mount Washington.

Lisa shares her story—from her role as co-owner of the International Mountain Climbing School to managing one of the toughe...


Kingdom Trails: World-Class Trails Made Possible by Private Landowners
#19
07/25/2025

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In this episode we sit down with Abby Long, the (outgoing) Executive Director of Kingdom Trails — one of the top mountain biking and multi-use trail networks in the country, located in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

Abby shares her inspiring journey from global service work to leading one of New England’s most beloved trail systems. With over 100 miles of trails traversing private land, Kingdom Trails is more than just a riding destination — it's a shining example of what happens when community, conserva...


The Vermont 100 Endurance Race: A Legacy of Ultrarunners, Adaptive Athletes, and Horses - with Amy Rusiecki
#18
07/17/2025

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In this episode we interview Amy Rusiecki — ultrarunner, trail advocate, race director of the iconic Vermont 100 Endurance Race, and race director of the Beast Coast Trail Running Series.

We take a deep dive into  the origins of the Vermont 100 and how it began as a horse endurance ride and remains one of the only events in the world where horses and runners share the same 100-mile course. Amy discusses what it takes to direct a race of this magnitude, from coordinating dua...


Building a Powerhouse: Inside Tufts University Rowing with George Munger
#17
07/08/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis sits down with George Munger, the director the Tufts University rowing program and men's head coach, to explore what makes Tufts one of the most successful and admired rowing teams in the country.

George shares his personal journey into the sport and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Tufts Rowing has evolved into a championship-caliber program. From multiple national titles on both the men's and women's teams (head coach...


The Head Of The Charles Regatta: Brendan Mulvey explains New England’s ultimate rowing celebration, rower's Christmas, and beach sprints
#16
06/23/2025

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In this episode we dive deep into what many rowers fondly call Rower’s Christmas — the legendary Head of the Charles Regatta (HOCR). We’re joined by race director Brendan Mulvey, who unpacks what makes this two-day rowing festival one of the world’s largest and most beloved regattas.

Brendan shares behind-the-scenes stories about the regatta’s rich history, the essential role of over 2,000 volunteers, and how the event welcomes everyone from world-class Olympians to determined first-timers. The conversation highlights the event’s un...


The Treeline Outfitters Story: An Outdoor Gear Shop, Taproom, & Run/Ride Hub
#15
06/09/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we interview Emily Kwesell and Cody Whelan, co-founders of Treeline Outfitters in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.  We explore the innovative concept of their outdoor gear shop that doubles as a taproom—an inviting space that brings endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts together.

Emily and Cody share the inspiration behind Treeline, tracing its roots back to their personal experiences in endurance sports. They discuss how they’ve built an inclusive community hub that aims to br...


Dirt Church Brewing: For the Love of Dirt, Community, and Craft Beer
#14
05/28/2025

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In this episode we had the pleasure of speaking with Anna Cronin and Bruce Lindsay, co-founders of Dirt Church Brewing, nestled in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. Born out of a shared love for mountain biking, trail (dirt) culture, and connection, Dirt Church is more than just a brewery—it’s a community hub built around the values of recreation, preservation, and celebration.

Anna and Bruce share their story about how they met and how they wanted to created a destination that blends...


545 Velo: A Cycling Team with Racing Roots and Regional Impact
#13
05/19/2025

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In this episode we enjoy a conversation with Jeff Dieffenbach, co-president of 545 Velo, and Larry Alford, one of the club's original founders. Together, they take us on a ride through the club’s origins, its evolution from a masters racing team to a diverse and inclusive cycling community, and the powerful role that camaraderie and purpose play in the club’s culture today.

Jeff and Larry tell us how 545 Velo was born out of early morning training rides—hence...


BIVO: The Vermont Bottle Company Fueling Endurance Sports
#12
05/07/2025

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The BIVO Story with Founders Carina Hamel and Robby Ringer

In this episode we speak with Carina Hamel and Robby Ringer, co-founders of BIVO, the Vermont-based brand redefining hydration for endurance athletes. Born from a desire to ditch plastic and do better for the planet, BIVO makes sleek, stainless steel water bottles that perform under pressure—and turn heads on the trail.

Carina and Robby open up about the early days of building BIVO, the big move fr...


New England Youth Cycling - Kelly Catale
#11
04/29/2025

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In this inspiring episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Kelly Catale, the Executive Director of New England Youth Cycling (NEYC) and the founder and president of Team KellCat Development Inc. (KellCat Devo). Kelly’s journey in the cycling world is nothing short of inspiring—she’s a two-time Singlespeed MTB National Champion and a three-time Team USA Member for the Marathon MTB World Championships. After a successful seven-year career as a professional mountain biker, Kelly has turned her focus...


The Falmouth Road Race - Megan Faulkner
#10
04/14/2025

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In this episode we had the pleasure of speaking with Megan Faulkner, the Executive Director of Falmouth Road Race, Inc and the Asics Falmouth Road Race. Megan has been an integral part of this iconic event for over a decade, and today, she gives us an inside look at what makes this race so unique and beloved. From its humble beginnings in 1973, when it was started by a group of runners in search of a few beers, to today’s world-class event attracting to...


Granite State Endurance Project - Amber Ferreira
#9
03/28/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Amber Ferreira—professional triathlete, mom, coach, and founder of the Granite State Endurance Project. Amber shares how she transformed her personal passion for endurance sports into a thriving community of athletes in New Hampshire. We explore what sets her coaching apart and why Granite State Endurance is about more than just training—it's about connection, grit, and joy in the process. We also chat about the Granite State Running Club and...


Back on My Feet: Transforming Lives One Mile at a Time
#8
03/12/2025

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In this special episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we celebrate the 15-year anniversary of Back on My Feet (Boston), an organization that has been changing lives through the power of fitness and community.  We sit down with with Jen Hyde, the New England director for Back on My Feet, and learn how endurance sports can transform lives, particularly for individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction. Jen shares insights into the program's structure, success stories, and the importance of community support in fostering r...


State 9 Racing: A NH Cycling Race Team Making an Impact
#7
03/03/2025

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We had the pleasure of speaking with Andy Gould, the president of State 9 Racing, one of New Hampshire’s premier cycling teams. From its origins in 2015 to its growth into a powerhouse in New England's cycling scene, Andy shared the story of how State 9 Racing has evolved and what makes it stand out from other teams in the region.

As one of the largest cycling teams in New Hampshire, State 9 Racing brings together a diverse group of riders with different disciplines, in...


Race Day XC: New England's New Mountain Bike Series
#6
02/24/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, host Art Trapotsis interviews John Day, the race director and founder of Race Day XC, a new mountain bike race series in New England. John shares his background in endurance sports, including motocross (yes, an endurance sport!) and cross-country mountain bike racing, and discusses his vision for creating a world-class XC racing series. The conversation covers the logistics of event planning, course design, and the unique features that will set Race Day XC apart...


Kenetik: Fueling Endurance with Ketones
#5
02/11/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast we welcome Devon Price and Peter Bayne, co-founders of Kenetik, a company specializing in ketone-based energy drinks. The conversation delves into the science behind ketones, their benefits for endurance athletes, and the journey of creating a product that is both effective and tasty. We discuss the challenges of ketone adoption, safety, and the broader health benefits of ketones, while also highlighting Kenetik's unique formulation and where to purchase the product.

Key...


Dave McGillivray: Boston Marathon Race Director and Endurance Legend
#4
01/31/2025

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, hosts Art Trapotsis and Eric Schenker welcome Dave McGillivray, the race director of the Boston Marathon (for 37 years!) They explore Dave's journey in endurance sports, his defining moments in life as an athlete, the evolution of the running community in New England, and the significance of the Boston Marathon. 

Dave is a remarkable figure in the New England community, and he shares numerous inspiring stories that highlight his impact. He's also an i...


Uphill New England: Building a Community for Uphill Skiers
#3
01/22/2025

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In this episode we interview Ed Warren, founder of Uphill New England, an organization dedicated to promoting uphill skiing in the region. Ed discusses the origins of Uphill New England, its partnerships with ski resorts to create an amazing Uphill Ski Pass, community-building initiatives, and the development of a mobile app to enhance the uphill skiing experience.

Our conversation highlights the challenges and successes of creating a supportive community for uphill skiers, as well as the importance of collaboration...


New England Track Cycling & The Northeast Velodrome
#2
01/16/2025

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In this episode we explore New England Track Cycling and the Northeast Velodrome with Dave LaFond, President, and Jed Kornbluh, Board Member.  They discuss the differences between track and road cycling, the formation of the New England Track Cycling organization, and the significance of the Northeast Velodrome. The conversation delves into the various events held at the velodrome, including Omnium racing, and the challenges faced in maintaining and promoting the facility. 

The episode highlights the community aspect of cycling and the ef...


Adam Myerson - Cycle-Smart
#1
01/08/2025

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In this Episode 1 of Season 2 of the New England Endurance Podcast, we welcome Adam Myerson, a prominent figure in the cycling community and President and Head Coach of Cycle-Smart Inc. We discuss Adam's impressive achievements in cyclocross (recent winner of the US Cyclocross Men's 50+ Championships), his journey from an amateur to a professional cyclist, and his role as a coach, father, organizer, and leader. The conversation also delves into the unique aspects of cyclocross, the legacy of the Northampton race, and...


Season 1 Recap of The New England Endurance Podcast
#30
01/01/2025

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In this special Season 1 recap of the New England Endurance Podcast, we reflect on an incredible year of conversations, stories, and adventures across the endurance sports landscape. From gravel grinders to icy swims, we revisit the highlights that shaped our journey and celebrate the tightly connected, inspiring community that makes New England one of the greatest regions for endurance athletes. We’ll share the top 5 episodes, top 5 hidden gem endurance events, and the top 5 reasons why this region stands out in the en...


Tough Ruck: A Journey of Honor and Community
#29
12/29/2024

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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...


Charles River Wheelers (CRW): Building Community Through Cycling
#28
12/20/2024

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In this episode of the New England Endurance Podcast, we learn about one of largest cycling clubs in the Boston area: the Charles River Wheelmen (CRW). My guest today is Randolph Williams, the President of CRW, an accomplished endurance athlete, and a passionate advocate for inclusivity in cycling.

Randolph shares how growing up in a family steeped in social activism shaped his journey, culminating in his impactful essay, Biking While Black. This powerful piece not only highlighted inequalities in the sport...


Bike Racing in New England: NEBRA’s Role in Road and Cyclocross Racing
#27
12/09/2024

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In this episode of The New England Endurance Podcast, we’re joined by Alan Atwood, President of the New England Bike Racing Association (NEBRA) and a cornerstone of the region’s road and cyclocross cycling community. With over 30 years in competitive cycling—as a team manager, event organizer, announcer, and founder of Atwood Racing Services—Alan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the sport.

We dive into the origins and mission of NEBRA, the New England road and cyclocross racing c...