
David Roche - The training and racing strategy behind his epic Leadville 100 course record | EP#444
That Triathlon Show
From Law to Endurance: A Journey
This chapter explores the intersection of trail ultra running and triathlon, particularly through the lens of the Leadville 100. It highlights the speaker's transition from environmental law to coaching endurance athletics and their evolving approach to training and racing strategies.
David Roche is a running coach (trail, track and road) and trail runner. He recently broke the longstanding Leadville 100 course record (in his first 100-mile race no less), a record previously thought unbreakable. In this episode, he sheds light on everything that went into this phenomenal feat.
IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT:
-How David set out to beat what was thought to be an unbreakable record at the Leadville 100
-David's training process: focusing on speed, low(ish) volume, using cycling and uphill treadmill
-Nutrition and fuelling: David's high-carb approach, and training tactics learnt from competitive eating
-Year-round heat training, ketones, sodium bicarbonate, and other marginal gains
-Race execution: pacing, mindset, and putting it all together
-How David has used insights from cycling and long-distance triathlon into his trail running prowess
-It took 18 years to be an overnight success: reflections on consistency over time
SHOWNOTES:
https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts444/
SCIENTIFIC TRIATHLON AND THAT TRIATHLON SHOW WEBPAGE:
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LINKS AND RESOURCES:
-David's website, podcast, and Instagram
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CONTACT:
Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.
SPONSORS:
- Precision Fuel & Hydration produce our favourite gels, sports drinks, and electrolyte and carbohydrate products here at That Triathlon Show and Scientific Triathlon. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get a personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event, and get 15% off your first 2026 order by using the code TTS2026 at checkout.
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