#51 Skip Brand | Founding HRC, Growing the Lake Sonoma Race Series, & Building Community

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⁠"Community is everything in the running world"

In this episode Troy Meadows talks with Skip Brand, the founder of the Hillsborough Running Company (HRC), Skip shares his journey in the running community and his involvement in the Lake Sonoma 50 race series. He emphasizes the importance of community and building relationships through running.Skip took over the Lake Sonoma 50 race from John Medinger and has put his own mark on the event, creating a unique and iconic race experience. He also expanded the race series to include a marathon and a trail half for women. The races have a strong focus on giving back and supporting local charities. The conversation covers various topics related to the Lake Sonoma races, including the culture of surf contests, the history and community of the Lake Sonoma races, the challenges and experiences of running the races, and the upcoming addition of the 100-mile race. The races are known for their focus on the runner's experience, the involvement of the local community, and the support of vineyard worker kids through charity. 

The conversation also touches on the importance of trail work and the impact of fires on the races. In this final part of the conversation, Skip and Troy discuss their experiences in various races and the challenges they faced. They also talk about the unique aspects of trail running on the East Coast and West Coast. Skip emphasizes the importance of diversity in the running community and the need for transparency in race participation. He also shares his favorite trail to run on locally in Healdsburg. 

The conversation ends with Skip inviting everyone to participate in the Sufferfest races and be part of the running community.

Skips Links 

IG - @healdsburgrunningcompany

Website: https://www.healdsburgrunningcompany.com

Donate to the Firefighters Run Free Gofundme

Things we talked about on the show

MPP #27 with Chris ThomasTropical John Redd Antler Running

Healdsburg Running Company

Leadville 100

Lake Sonoma 50

Lake Sonoma 26.2

Lake Sonoma 13.1

CFC - Lake Sonoma 100k

CFC - Lake Sonoma 55k

Gina Lucrezi - Trail Sisters

Keira Henninger - La