Young, Fit, and Ready for the Pain Cave at Western States 100: Hans Troyer’s Journey

When your motto is “young and fit,” what does it look like to train for Western States?Hans Troyer is a 25 year old pro ultrarunner who set the course record at the Bandera 100k in 2024 and who finished second at the 2025 Canyons 100k, earning him a Golden Ticket to the Western States 100.Listen to hear about:Discovering the trail scene and becoming a pro runnerThe draw of the pain cave and sufferingPreparation for Western States 100Hans’ fueling and nutrition strategies on and off the courseThe brands Hans lovesStay connected:Hans on Instagram: instagram.com/hanstroyer Hans on YouTube: youtube.com/@HansIsYoungAndFit THE KID documentary: youtube.com/watch?v=ZZmeB4qub_U Find Hans Troyer on StravaFor The Long Run Podcast on Instagram: instagram.com/forthelrpodJon Levitt on Instagram: instagram.com/jwlevittJoin the For The Long Run email community: for-the-long-run.beehiiv.comThis episode is supported by:Pillar: If you’re looking to step up your performance, check out PILLAR at TheFeed.com and use FTLR for 15% off your first purchase.GOES: Need a trail companion that’s smarter than your average gear? Meet GOES—the essential outdoor app created by wilderness medicine doctors. Whether you're planning your next adventure or handling a backcountry emergency, GOES gives you expert medical guidance—even without cell service. Tap a body part, assess the risk, and get clear next steps. It’s like having a backcountry medic in your pocket—and it’s an absolute must-have in our kit. Use code 25FTLR30 for 30% off an annual GOES+ plan. GOES+ gives you access to the rewards program, plus much more additional medical content and our emergency assessment tool!Boulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.Visit Leadville: So you think you know Leadville? Lake County has so much more to offer year-round than just the 100 miler in the summer. If you’re thinking of getting away, highly recommend booking a trip to Leadville to get up into the mountains, eat yummy food, and play outside. Check out more of what Leadville has to offer here!