This is Trail Running Without Mountains.

This is Trail Running Without Mountains.

July 21, 2026 · 31 min · Season 1 · Episode 312

About this episode

The episode explores the unique aspects of trail running in the Midwest, emphasizing community over scenery.

Trail running in the Midwest looks different. No mountain towns. No towering peaks. Just a different kind of commitment. On the drive to Harvey Lewis's house, Josh and Sam Hartman explore what it means to build a trail running culture in flat country, and why some of the sport's deepest communities exist far from the places most runners imagine. Sam Hartman, founder of TINAR Races in Columbus, Ohio, argues that community matters more than scenery, why Midwest trail runners develop a different relationship with the sport, and how trail running becomes part of your identity when getting to the trails takes intention. It's a conversation about place, belonging, and a side of trail running that deserves far more attention. Please give us a follow, rate the podcast, and give a review. If you’re new to Borderlands, start here . Resources / Links TINAR - Alley Trail Classic Borderlands.cc Related Episodes Ultra Running isn't Just Running Presented by Kiprun . ---- Borderlands explores trail running through culture, media, and the forces shaping it. Watch on YouTube Read on Substack

People in this episode

Host: Josh Rosenthal

Guest: Sam Hartman

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: TINAR Races

Places: Columbus, Ohio, Midwest, Harvey Lewis's house

More episodes of Borderlands Trail and Ultra Running

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Borderlands Trail and Ultra Running podcast page.