Colin and Danny interview Mark Castrovinci co-founder of TopGunz Tri Team and recent finisher of the Leadville 100 mountain bike race experience.
Takeaways
Mark transitioned from rowing to triathlon, qualifying for Kona in 2021 after years of dedicated training
He recently completed the grueling Leadville 100 mountain bike race, overcoming severe GI issues to finish just before the cutoff
Mark balances training with family life and a career in the running shoe industry at Altra
His positive attitude and ability to suffer through challenges are key traits that have led to his success
Mark's Athletic Background
Started rowing after college, competed in club races in Boston
Transitioned to triathlon in 2011-2012 after moving to North Carolina
Qualified for Kona in 2021 at Ironman Lake Placid with a 13th place AG finish
Has completed challenging events like a 210-mile gravel ride with 20,000 ft of climbing
Career Path
Worked in finance at Fidelity, then chemical sales with his father's company
Made a major career change to pursue passion in running industry
Now works as a tech rep for Altra Running, covering the New England territory
Enjoys the active lifestyle and flexibility the job provides for training
Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race Experience
Entered via lottery, trained intensively for 3 months with coach Tim Snow
Battled severe GI issues throughout the race, repeatedly vomiting and having diarrhea
Considered quitting at mile 65 but pushed through with encouragement from volunteers
Finished just before the 12-hour cutoff in an intense sprint to the line
Describes it as one of the hardest physical and mental challenges he's ever faced
Training and Racing Philosophy
Emphasizes the importance of staying consistent during non-racing periods
Uses creative ways to fit in training around work and family commitments
Values the camaraderie and shared suffering of endurance events
Maintains a positive, fun-loving attitude even during intense challenges
What's Next
Mark plans to do some local half-ironman races in 2024
Will support his wife's marathon training for Boston and Chicago
Considering another full Ironman in late 2024 (possibly Cozumel)
May attempt Leadville 100 again in the future after more mountain bike experience
