DFW Running Talk

Fort Worth runner, TCU alumna, and nutrition professor McKale Montgomery has one of the most remarkable stories in the DFW running community — and probably all of American distance running.At her peak, McKale was running 2:34 marathons, chasing Olympic Trials qualifying standards by seconds, and competing against the best women in the country. Then in 2022, her right leg stopped working mid-run. No warning. No explanation.After three and a half years, dozens of doctors, MRIs, and dead ends, she was finally diagnosed with runner's dystonia — one of only 48 confirmed cases in the United States.In this episode, McKale and host Chris Detzel cover:Growing up in rural Oklahoma and running 7 miles a day to make a basketball teamEarning a full scholarship to run at TCU and winning a conference championshipRunning a 2:48 in her first Chicago Marathon while targeting the Olympic TrialsThe Woodlands Marathon disqualification — what may have been the fastest 26 miles of her lifeHer runner's dystonia diagnosis and the experimental medication with a 3-hour half-lifeTraining 90-100 miles a week on a treadmill to maintain her balanceWinning the Cowtown 50K outright — beating every man and every woman — in her first-ever ultraThis is a story about resilience, ego (her word), and what it means to keep running when your body fights back.DFW Running Talk is your podcast for stories from the heart of the DFW running community. New episodes weekly. Subscribe, follow, and leave a review.Sponsored by Rise Racing Co. Use code DFW for 10% off Panther City Ultra on April 4th, 2026

Chris Detzel joins Drew Martig of the Happy Running Podcast for a collab episode on running community, marathon training, and what it really takes to get faster. Chris shares how he went from zero to consistent runner at 37, built an 11,000-member DFW running community, and why miles — not secrets — are the key to improvement. Drew opens up about coming back from a serious injury with his eye on Chicago Find the full video here: https://youtu.be/D99yH7pU0fc?si=Mv7r8SFOmzOBVom1Find Drew Martig's YouTube page here: https://www.youtube.com/@DrewMartig

Ryan Burrell ran 2:53:01 in his very first marathon at the 2026 Houston Marathon — one of the fastest marathon debuts in the Dallas running community in recent memory.-------------------------Sponsor: Rise Racing Co., Get 10% off, use code DFW, Register for the Panther City Ultra in Fort Worth,50k, 25k, 10k and 5k​April 4th, 2026Marion Sansom Park2501 Roberts Cut Off Rd,Fort Worth, TX 76114---------------------------But the story behind that time is what makes this episode unmissable. Ryan was a 4:23 miler in high school in Baton Rouge, Louisiana — a state qualifier who burned out from overtraining without an aerobic base. He walked away from running for years. Then he moved to Dallas in 2021, got reinspired, linked up with coach Matt and the Sloth Running Club, and quietly built himself into one of the most exciting distance runners in DFW.In this episode, Chris Detzel sits down with Ryan to talk about:- His high school track career — 4:23 mile, state finalist, 4x800 relay- How overtraining without easy running derailed his college career - The 4+ year running gap and what finally brought him back- Getting connected with DFW's run club scene (ZFT, Sloth RC, Velvet Hammer 5K)- Training for Houston — long runs, aerobic base building, and race strategy- The brutal final miles: cramping and stopping three times between miles 23–25- Crossing the finish line in 2:53:01 and what's next (Boston qualifier? You decide)If you're a runner in Dallas-Fort Worth, training for your first marathon, chasing a sub-3, or just love a great comeback story — this one's for you.🎙️ DFW Running Talk | Hosted by Chris Detzel📬 Newsletter: dfwrunningtalk.substack.com🏃 Community: DFW Running Group (11,000+ members on Facebook)Keywords: marathon debut, Houston Marathon 2026, Dallas running, DFW running, sub-3 marathon, marathon training, running comeback, Sloth Running Club, first marathon, running podcast

Houston Marathon qualifier Andrew Smith ran 2:53:52 in January 2026 to earn his Boston Marathon 2027 BQ — with a hamstring cramp at mile 24 nearly derailing everything.In this episode of DFW Running Talk, Andrew shares the full three-year marathon journey that took him from signing up for his first half marathon on three days' notice to qualifying for Boston. We cover his first marathon at Irving (4:03), running NYC for charity through Hope Story, hiring a coach, the training cycle that changed everything, and the chaotic race-day at Houston — strep throat nine days out, his family stuck at home, and a brutal cramp in the final miles he had to run through on a prayer.Topics: Houston Marathon 2026, Boston Marathon qualifier, BQ training, marathon race strategy, Dallas marathon community, running coach, marathon fueling, DFW runningDFW Running Talk is Dallas-Fort Worth's running podcast. New episodes every week. Subscribe at dfwrunningtalk.substack.com.This episode is sponsored by Rob Goyen and Rise Racing Co. The Panther City Ultra at Marion Sampson Park on April 4th brings trail running to Fort Worth with distances from 5K to 50K. Limited to 300 runners. Use code DFW for 10% off at https://www.riseracingco.com/panther-city-ultra

What does it take to run one of Texas's most iconic marathons — and then launch a brand new one from scratch?This week, Chris sits down with Jason Schuchard, President of the BMW Dallas Marathon, for a candid conversation about his life in running, what's fueling Dallas Marathon's incredible growth, and the exciting new McKinney Historic Half Marathon launching March 28th.Jason shares how his mom's passion for running shaped his own journey — from cross country at Plano Senior High, to 8-10 marathons, to Ironman competitions — and how all of it eventually led him to lead one of DFW's premier running events.They cover what's behind the Dallas Marathon's annual sellouts, why adding more bibs isn't as simple as it sounds, and what makes the McKinney Historic Half a completely different experience — a half and half road/trail course winding through McKinney's historic square with a 4,000-person cap in year one.If Dallas is on your 2026 race calendar, don't sleep on registration — it opens May 1st and sells out fast.In this episode:Jason's running origin story & 3:23 marathon PRWhat's driving the Dallas Marathon's growthThe story behind the new McKinney Historic Half (March 28th)How the race benefits Scottish Rite for ChildrenWhy you should register for Dallas 2026 early Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to DFW Running Talk on Substack, and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Eric Bretl's running story is one of humility, growth, and the undeniable power of community. In this episode, Eric shares how a humbling 1:34 half marathon finish — after training solo and thinking he was working harder than everyone around him — set him on a path to completely reinvent himself as a runner. From lifting weights and eating Jack's pizza in college to dropping from 225 lbs and eventually running a 2:35 at the California International Marathon (CIM), Eric's journey is a testament to what's possible when you find your people. He talks about training alongside Jennifer and Aaron, waking up at 5 AM for 14-mile workouts, and the unforgettable moment all three of them crossed the CIM finish line within 30 seconds of each other. If you've ever wondered whether running with a community really makes a difference — Eric's story is your answer.

Joe Hale has won the Dallas Marathon twice — and in 2025 came back from a year battling an Achilles injury to finish third in one of the most competitive fields the race has seen. In this episode, Joe takes us through his full running journey: from summer track in Grapevine at age seven, to building a marathon career on 140-mile training weeks. He breaks down race day 2025, the frozen glove incident on the lake, how the front pack split apart in the final miles, and what it actually takes to compete at the front of a major marathon as a non-professional. Honest, tactical, and packed with insight for runners at every level.

Braden Keefer's running story is one of redemption and consistency. After running mediocre times in high school and never making varsity, Braden quit running entirely in college—gaining 40 pounds, smoking American Spirits, and developing some unhealthy habits along the way.But in December 2019, a girlfriend got him back on the track. What started as casual runs slowly turned into something more serious. Fast forward to November 2024, and Braden just ran 2:47 at the Indy Monumental Marathon—a 10-minute PR and a testament to what happens when talent meets structure.In this conversation, we cover:Why he never made varsity despite running cross country and track all four yearsThe five-year gap where running wasn't part of his lifeRunning his first marathon (3:08) with zero structured trainingThe turning point: hiring coach Jeff Cunningham and joining Pegasus RunningBuilding up to 80-mile weeks and learning to run easyHis tactical mistake at Indy that cost him in the final milesWhy he's targeting sub-2:40 at the Boston MarathonThe importance of running for yourself, not comparing to othersBraden's message is simple but powerful: it doesn't matter where you start or how long you've been away from the sport. With the right community, coaching, and mindset, you can accomplish things you never thought possible.Subscribe to DFW Running Talk: dfwrunningtalk.substack.com

At just 20 years old, Jera Crandall ran 3:05:39 in her first-ever marathon at the 2025 Dallas Marathon—shattering the Boston qualifying standard by over 20 minutes and finishing 13th overall women and 6th in her age group. This race became deeply meaningful when Jera lost her father in early September during her training cycle, turning the marathon into a tribute to him and a way to process her grief.This episode is brought to you by Rise Racing Co.Join us for the inaugural Panther City Ultra at Marion Sampson Park on April 4th, 2025! Race director Rob Goyen is bringing true trail running to Fort Worth with distances from 5K to 50K. Experience natural trails, rocky terrain, and real elevation gain—capped at just 300 runners for an intimate trail racing experience.This will sell out, so register now at https://www.riseracingco.com/panther-city-ultra and use code DFW for 10% off your registration.In this episode, Jera shares her unconventional path from competitive figure skater to distance running phenom. She opens up about running her first 5K in 19:28 with absolutely zero training knowledge, taking nearly a year off from racing to focus on skating, then deciding to become a "seriously competitive distance runner" after the 2024 Turkey Trot.We discuss her methodical approach to the marathon—hiring coach Alfonzo Gonzalez Jr (Fonz) before even attempting the distance, nailing her carb loading and nutrition strategy, executing perfect pacing starting conservatively at 7:15 pace, and fighting through the brutal final 5K to achieve her goal.Jera also talks about overcoming past struggles with disordered eating, the mental toughness developed through figure skating and her powerlifting background, her harrowing 14-mile training run where she got lost on the trails and had to be rescued by the Train Pegasus crew, joining the running community at White Rock Lake, and why she's waiting until 2027 Houston Marathon to race the full distance again so she can build raw strength and speed at shorter distances first.Key Stats:First marathon: 3:05:39 (Dallas Marathon 2025)13th overall women, 6th in age groupHalf marathon PR: 1:26:5610K PR: 40:085K PR: 19:28Age 20Topics Covered:Running 3:05:39 debut marathon and qualifying for BostonDedicating the race to her late fatherTransitioning from figure skating to distance runningWorking with coach Alfonzo Gonzalez Jr (Fonz) and Train PegasusMarathon nutrition: carb loading, fueling, hydration strategyRace pacing and execution through adversityBuilding 60-70 mile training weeks at age 20Overcoming eating disorder history through healthy trainingRunning through grief and lossThe importance of finding your running communityFuture plans: focusing on 5K-Half Marathon speed through 2026

Join host Chris Detzel for an inspiring conversation with Nicole Bitter, one of the most accomplished ultrarunners in North America. Nicole's journey began with an unexpected tap on the shoulder from her 7th-grade gym teacher who redirected her from basketball to cross country—a decision that would change her life forever.From running at Northwestern University to discovering trail running during law school in Waco's Cameron Park, Nicole shares how she found her way to the Dallas White Rock Running Co-op and eventually set the North American 100-mile trail record at Rocky Raccoon in 2015. With three top 10 finishes at Western States 100, wins at Black Canyon 100km and Javelina 100, and a third-place finish at the incredibly competitive 2025 Javelina 100, Nicole's ultrarunning resume speaks for itself.This episode is sponsored by Rob Goyen and Rise Racing Co. The Panther City Ultra at Marion Sampson Park on April 4th brings trail running to Fort Worth with distances from 5K to 50K. Limited to 300 runners. Use code DFW for 10% off at https://www.riseracingco.com/panther-city-ultraBut beyond the achievements and records, this conversation explores what truly matters: the lifelong friendships formed through running, the importance of supportive partners and community, and finding what brings you joy after decades of competitive training. Nicole reflects on her time with the White Rock co-op, her current training with Rogue Running in Austin, and what motivates her as she contemplates her next chapter in the sport.Whether you're an aspiring ultrarunner, a road racer, or someone who simply loves hearing stories of dedication and community, Nicole's journey will inspire you.

Juliette Vielhauer only started running in 2023, and just two years later, she ran a stunning 3:01:57 debut marathon at California International Marathon (CIM). At 25 years old, this former lacrosse player from Cal Poly and SMU has taken the Dallas running scene by storm.In this conversation, Juliette shares her unconventional journey into running—signing up for a half marathon without ever racing a 5K, finding her competitive edge through the Dallas run club scene, and building up to her first marathon with a mix of solo training and community support. She opens up about the mental and physical challenges of race day at CIM, including battling the cold, hitting the wall at mile 20, and still managing to PR her half marathon split during the race.Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Rise Racing Co. and the Panther City Ultra at Marion Sampson Park on April 4th. Rob Goyen is bringing trail running to Fort Worth with distances from 5K to 50K featuring natural trails, rocky terrain, and real elevation—capped at just 300 runners. This will sell out! Ready for something different than your usual road race? Head over to https://www.riseracingco.com/panther-city-ultra and use code DFW for 10% off your registration.From her lacrosse roots and county cross country championship as a kid to her current goals of running sub-1:25 at Big Star Half Marathon's elite field in April 2027, Juliette represents the next generation of fast young runners in DFW. Whether you're chasing your first race or your next PR, you'll find inspiration in her story of setting big goals and refusing to settle.Show Notes:Guest: Juliette VielhauerTopics Covered:Growing up playing competitive lacrosse from age 9 through collegeWinning county cross country championships in elementary schoolMoving to Dallas for grad school at SMU knowing nobody in TexasStarting running in 2023 with zero race experienceFirst half marathon in May 2023 without proper trainingFinding the Dallas running community (White Rock Running Co., TNSR Plano)Training solo for CIM while balancing corporate jobRace strategy and execution at California International MarathonRunning 3:01:57 debut marathon and qualifying for Boston 2027Going sober during peak training and the impact on recoveryPRing the half marathon (1:28) during the marathon itselfPost-race celebration and recovery challengesGoals for Big Star Half Marathon elite field (targeting sub-1:25)Future marathon plans and long-term running aspirations

In this episode of DFW Running Talk, Chris Detzel sits down with Aaron Pearson to discuss his inspiring running journey from small-town Kansas to the California International Marathon, where he ran a phenomenal 2:35:02 PR.Aaron shares his early running experiences, including going undefeated in the 800m during his senior year of high school before taking second place at state. He talks about his transition to college running on scholarship, training alongside Olympians, and eventually finding his way to the marathon distance.But this episode is about more than just race times. Aaron opens up about the incredible power of running community and what it means to train and race alongside friends. He recounts the magical experience at CIM, running the entire race with training partners Eric Bretl and Jennifer Pope, celebrating together, and why this race—beyond the PR—was one of the best experiences of his running life.Whether you're a track athlete transitioning to longer distances, training for your first marathon, or looking to find your running community, Aaron's story will motivate you to chase your goals and cherish the journey with the people around you.Subscribe to DFW Running Talk and join the conversation about all things running in the Dallas-Fort Worth area!Links:Website: www.dfwrunningtalk.comNewsletter: www.dfwrunningtalk.substack.com Community: www.dfwrunninggroup.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DFWRunningTalk

In this episode of DFW Running Talk's "New Blood" series, Chris sits down with Casey Novelo, the 22-year-old rising star who ran 2:24:43 to finish second overall at the 2024 Dallas Marathon.Casey's running journey is anything but typical. Starting as one of the slowest runners on his high school cross country team—finishing second-to-last at districts with a 21+ minute 5K—he transformed himself through relentless work ethic and smart training. By his senior year, he had dropped to 16:20 for 5K and earned a walk-on spot at Texas A&M Commerce, eventually securing a scholarship.Now working full-time while logging 100+ mile weeks, Casey has emerged as one of DFW's most promising young marathoners. He shares the full story of his Dallas Marathon experience, including the intense mile-by-mile battle with winner Steven Fahy, strategic race decisions, and that blistering 5:07 mile at mile 22 that nearly changed the outcome.Looking ahead, Casey has his sights set on breaking 2:20 at the Jersey City Marathon in April 2026, and with 13 years until his marathon prime, he's just getting started. This conversation explores what it takes to compete at the elite level, the mental fortitude required to push through pain, and why the best marathoners in the world are still improving well into their 30s.Whether you're chasing your own PR or just love hearing about the next generation of DFW running talent, Casey's story will inspire you to think bigger about what's possible.

Talon Smith owns FTX Hybrid Athletics in Fort Worth, where he's built one of the most successful Hyrox programs in America. In this conversation, he demystifies the sport for runners: 8 kilometers of running broken up by 8 functional fitness stations (ski erg, sled push, burpees, rowing, farmers carry, lunges, wall balls). Learn why Dallas Hyrox sold 12,000 tickets in hours, how to structure hybrid training without overtraining, and why Talon believes the sport favors endurance athletes. Perfect for runners looking to expand beyond road racing or add strength training that actually complements running performance.

In this special episode of New Blood: DFW's Young Gals Raising the Bar, Chris sits down with three remarkable athletes who proved that the best training partners are sometimes the ones you never actually train with.Sisters Maddie Stier (32, Allen, TX) and Grace Chow (29, Washington, DC), along with their close friend Melanie Lassen (34, Casper, WY), came together at the California International Marathon to achieve something extraordinary—all three broke 2:50, finishing within minutes of each other after training separately in three different states.Maddie stayed rooted in the DFW community, training with the Sloths Running Club by "chasing people faster than her" without a formal plan. Grace hired her first coach, Jordan Hogan (formerly Jordan Hassay), and navigated solo training in the cold, dark mornings of Washington, DC. Melanie moved to Casper, Wyoming, trained at 5,000 feet elevation, and struggled through nearly every workout—barely hitting a single target pace.But when they reunited in Sacramento for a girls' weekend (no husbands, no kids, just chicken quesadillas and Zootopia), something magical happened. They ran their races separately but together, supporting each other from different parts of the course before meeting at the finish line for a core memory they'll never forget.Finish times:Maddie Stier: 2:47:15 (6:24/mile)Melanie Lassen: 2:48:06 (6:25/mile)Grace Chow: 2:49:46 (6:29/mile)This episode captures what makes running special: the power of community that transcends geography, the magic of shared goals, and what happens when you find your people—even when they live 1,500 miles apart. You'll hear about the Mile 20 declaration, the ultra-runner named Jesus who became their hype man for 22 miles, and why Maddie's brother's quote—"If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room"—drives everything they do.This is the future of running. This is New Blood. And it's happening right now.