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Ben Blankenship on transitioning from 1500m Olympian to 100-miler

Former middle-distance Olympian Ben Blankenship discusses his transition from the track to the trails and what challenges still lie ahead

Ben Blankenship Photo by: Ben Blankenship

In the latest episode of The Shakeout Podcast, Ben Blankenship joins the podcast to discuss his transition from 1500m US Olympian to elite 100-miler, which culminated in his second-place finish in the Rabid Racoon 100 Miler last month.

Throughout the episode, Blankenship discusses his winding road to professional running, why he almost gave up the sport following his collegiate career, the greatest challenges endured in his 100-mile debut, and how his training has shifted since retiring from the track.

He also discusses his choice to withdraw from the US Olympic Marathon Trials after qualifying in his debut last year and his future as an ultramarathoner.

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