The Tales on the Towpath’s Podcast
Aug 8, 2026 · 51 min · 10 segments
How does a NCAA Division I head coach translate track and cross country speed onto the rugged trails of ultrarunning? In this episode, we are joined by Caleb Bowen, Head Cross Country Coach at…
Caleb BowenGuestAdam LoweHostKatie LoweHostChris EarlHostIf it's an ultra, a backyard, or some ridiculous running challenge, I'm probably signing up for it.
I love all things running, but my specialties are run streaking and the beer mile.
Together, we're here to share the stories that make running such an incredible community.
From local legends to elite athletes, race directors, and everyday runners, we'll cover the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
So whether you're out for a run, driving to your next race, or just hanging out, thanks for joining us.
He's been busy collecting wins at races like Burning River Highland Sky 40, which is Katie's favorite.
And when he's not winning, he's usually battling it out for podium spots at races like Western States, Javelina 100, and Grindstone against some of the best ultra runners in the country.
So today we're gonna talk about how he got into the sport, what it takes to compete at that level, the highs, the lows, and maybe even if he has a bad day, out on the trails because judging by ultra signup, we're starting to wonder if that ever happens.
And I know our listeners are going to be inspired and encouraged from listening to you.
So why don't you go ahead and tell us a little bit about who you are, what you do, and then you can start getting into like how you got started in the running.
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If it's an ultra, a backyard, or some ridiculous running challenge, I'm probably signing up for it.
I love all things running, but my specialties are run streaking and the beer mile.
Together, we're here to share the stories that make running such an incredible community.
From local legends to elite athletes, race directors, and everyday runners, we'll cover the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
So whether you're out for a run, driving to your next race, or just hanging out, thanks for joining us.
He's been busy collecting wins at races like Burning River Highland Sky 40, which is Katie's favorite.
And when he's not winning, he's usually battling it out for podium spots at races like Western States, Javelina 100, and Grindstone against some of the best ultra runners in the country.
So today we're gonna talk about how he got into the sport, what it takes to compete at that level, the highs, the lows, and maybe even if he has a bad day, out on the trails because judging by ultra signup, we're starting to wonder if that ever happens.
And I know our listeners are going to be inspired and encouraged from listening to you.
So why don't you go ahead and tell us a little bit about who you are, what you do, and then you can start getting into like how you got started in the running.
