From 'Running Sucks' to Running Ultras: Greg Sisengrath's Dirt-y Journey in DFW

DFW Running Talk

Ever wonder how someone goes from thinking "running sucks" to voluntarily running 100 miles through the mountains? Meet Greg Sisengrath, the mastermind behind Team Dirt and Vert, who traded basketball shorts for ultra shorts and never looked back. In this episode, Greg shares how he went from barely running around the block (and his wife not believing him) to crushing Western States after a 7-year waiting game (talk about patient training!).

But this isn't just another "how I became an ultra runner" story. Greg spills the dirt on building DFW's trail running community, where post-run craft beers are just as important as mile splits. He breaks down why he thinks marathon training is harder than ultra training (yes, you read that right), and why he prefers mountains where you can "take breaks" during 35-hour races (we see what you did there, Greg).

From coaching newbies to veterans, dodging copperheads at Rowlett Creek (nature's interval training), to building a community that turns road runners into trail lovers, Greg shares how he's helping shape DFW's running scene. Whether you're a seasoned trail warrior or someone who still thinks running sucks, this episode proves that sometimes the best journeys start with just making it around the block - and maybe a post-run beer or two.

Warning: This episode may cause sudden urges to sign up for ultra marathons, buy trail shoes, and join Tuesday night runs in Plano. Side effects may include an inexplicable desire to run up mountains and a new appreciation for snakes as training partners.

Here's Greg Sisengrath's contact information:

Social Media:
- Instagram: @ultraninjarunnr
- Facebook: Greg Sisengrath

Groups:
- Facebook Group: Team Dirt and Vert

Website:
- www.GregSisengrath.com (mentioned for race calendar)

For anyone interested in joining Team Dirt and Vert group runs:
- They post their weekly runs every Monday on their Facebook page
- Runs are free and open to anyone
- Locations typically include:
- Tuesday: Plano (Oak Point)
- Thursday: Plano (hill repeats)
- Friday: Rowlett Creek (ladies' group run)
- Sunday: Erwin Park ("Struggle Bus Sunday")