What does it take to turn a 30-person gym event into a 600-racer spectacle? Pete Saenz and Coach Ricardo break down the real blueprint: passion, buy-in, and making fitness feel like a can’t-miss event.Pete—CPA, owner of Bodify Fitness, accomplished athlete, and Director of Deadly Dozen USA—shares how his first DEKA race barely broke 30 signups, why he invested anyway, and how he scaled up to 372 racers in the July heat of Laredo, Texas. Ricardo joins him to explore how community, marketing, and an inside-out approach can turn curious members into committed competitors.In this episode, you’ll hear: How to introduce hybrid racing to members who are new to DEKA, HYROX, or fitness racingWhy staff buy-in can help an event grow from the inside outHow DEKA-based classes and a six-week prep challenge can build interestWhy photography, video, DJs, sponsors, and a memorable event experience matterHow competing against yourself—not just the person beside you—can keep athletes coming backPete also shares plans for the November 14, 2026 event in Laredo, with two connected soccer fields, at least eight lanes, age-group heats, solos, teams, and relays. The event will also include a pre-race clinic with elite athlete Kevin Gregory. Explore Pete’s event: https://www.spartan.com/en/race/detail/11012/overviewThis conversation is for gym owners growing hybrid racing, coaches looking for ways to engage members, and athletes preparing to compete. At its heart is a reminder that fitness can build confidence, community, and a reason to keep showing up.
