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In this episode, we sit down with Nicol Traynor Starkes, Associate Head Coach of Cross Country and Track & Field at Rutgers University. Nicol shares her personal athletics journey, from the spark that ignited her passion for running and jumping to her favorite memories across a decorated career as both an athlete and now a top college coach. We dive deep into the rapid rise of the Rutgers distance program: what’s fueling their growing success, how they stay competitive in the tough Big Ten conference, and how recent rule changes have reshaped recruiting and athlete retention. Plus, Nicol gives her honest take on the current state of the sport, new training philosophies, emerging technology, and her thoughts on Grand Slam Track’s attempt to shake up the professional side of track & field. Whether you’re a runner, coach, or fan of college athletics, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and real talk about where the sport is headed. Nicol's X: @ntraynor12 Nicol's Instagram: @coachtraynor_rutgers Tune in now!

In this episode, we sit down with Chuck Schneekloth, Founder and Director of the Garden State Track Club, to explore what it takes to build a thriving track & field career. Chuck shares: • The spark that ignited his lifelong passion for running and jumping • His favorite memories from decades in the sport • Why he created the Garden State Track Club and how clubs dramatically benefit both athletes and school teams • What every prospective club athlete should know before joining Plus, we tackle the big debate: • Are relays really necessary in track & field? • The pros and cons of relays for athletes and teams Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete looking to take your track career to the next level, this conversation delivers valuable insights you won’t want to miss. 🔥 Subscribe for more track & field stories and expert advice! Guest: Chuck Schneekloth – Founder & Director, Garden State Track Club #TrackAndField #TrackClub #Running #Relays #Athletics

This week on Talking in Ovals, we sit down with Andy Martin — a true New Jersey track and field legend, former Holmdel Park record holder, and one of the most influential figures in endurance sports today. Andy takes us back to the very beginning of his journey, sharing the spark that ignited his passion for running and the unforgettable memories that shaped his career from his early days as a standout athlete through his rise as an all-time NJ great. We dive deep into his current work as an executive in endurance sports, exploring his key roles with USATF and the iconic BOLDERBoulder race. Andy reveals how USATF is evolving to grow the sport of athletics, the history behind his long-standing involvement with one of America’s most legendary 10K events, and what the future holds for track and field at every level. We also tackle the current state of the sport — what’s working, what needs to change, and the critical challenge of recruiting and retaining more officials to keep meets running smoothly across the country. Whether you’re a runner, coach, parent, or simply a fan of the sport, this conversation delivers inspiration, insider perspective, and actionable ideas for the future of athletics. Tune in for a powerful discussion with a man who has lived the sport as both an elite competitor and a key leader helping shape its next chapter.

Dave and Alex welcome Corey Annan and Bakari Tice back on the show and we recap the NJ Indoor Track season and preview the Outdoor season!

Dave and Alex welcome Joe Compagni back to the show and we talk about the World Indoor Championships, the current state of collegiate track and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Brian Gould and Kurt Wayton to the show as we talk about their running journeys, building a team culture and the value of leadership!

Dave and Alex welcome Dr. Bill Evans onto the show and we talk about his running journey, the science of training and the performance boom!

Dave and Alex welcome Ashley Higginson on the show and we talk about her running journey, transitioning from pro running and how she feels about track today!

Dave and Alex welcome Brian Prendergast back to the show and we talk about success at Manalapan, building a culture and current events in the sport!

Dave and Alex welcome Quincy Watts to the show and we talk about his running journey, building a program and his current view on the health of the sport!

Dave and Alex welcome Dominique Smith to the show and we talk about his running journey, the Lactic Acid Podcast and the state of the sport!

Dave and Alex welcome Lyle Smith back to the show and we talk about the role of coaches, reminiscing and looking forward to the Millrose Games, NCAA Rules and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Jeff Benjamin back to the show and we talk about the passing of the legendary Fred Dwyer, the 2026 World XC Championships and the upcoming Millrose Games!

Dave and Alex welcome Sean McCafferty back to the show as we talk about this past XC season, team culture, national expectations and more!

Dave and Alex welcome Dave Slavinski to the show and we talk about his athletics journey, have a high level running family and his training methods!