This episode features an incredible conversation with Alex Schultz, winner of this year’s Arizona Trail 800 finishing in an unbelievable 9 days and 10 hours! This marks Alex’s third finish in the 800, following his win in 2023 and second-place finish in 2024, and it also completes his 2025 Triple Crown Challenge. He wrapped up an unbelievable season that included finishing the Tour Divide in 16 days, 16 hours, and 27 minutes, and the Colorado Trail Race in 5 days, 2 hours, and 16 minutes.
With a new route rerouted with an out and back on the Grand Canyon and a Humphreys Peak summit, and finishing in Flagstaff, this year’s AZT 800 was one for the books. Alex and I dive into how the course differed from previous years due to the North Rim burn, the massive vert, and the harsh conditions that tested every racer on the trail AKA the COLD.
Despite freezing temps, long nights, and relentless climbing, Alex managed to hold strong and take the win by a huge margin. Every rider out there showed incredible grit, both mentally and physically — but Alex’s ride was truly something special.
This episode was totally spur of the moment — Alex had just come by to pick up his car from my place after finishing the race, and we figured, “Why not hit record?” What followed was a raw, inspiring conversation about endurance, mindset, and what it takes to push beyond your limits.
Tune in, leave a comment, and share your thoughts — this one’s packed with stoke and respect for everyone who takes on the Arizona Trail.
Read more about Alex's journey on bikepacking.com: https://bikepacking.com/news/alex-schultz-wins-2025-aztr/
Follow Alex on Instagram: @schultzy954
