Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 84: Tris4Health - Michigan's Premier Endurance Events

Overview:

In Episode 84, Trevor sits down with John Conkling and John Mozy from Tris4Health to explore the expansion of their race production company from two triathlon events to a diverse portfolio of eleven endurance events. They reflect on their origin story, the evolution into gravel racing, and their commitment to athlete-focused event experiences. The conversation also touches on maintaining organic growth, accessibility, community partnerships, and balancing their own fitness journeys.

John Conkling and John Mozy exemplify what happens when a love of endurance sports and a commitment to community come together. Their journey from triathletes to full-time race directors reflects intentional, athlete-first thinking. Whether reviving iconic events like the Grand Fondo or creating quirky new ones like Road to Hell, their approach is grounded in passion, fun, and a desire to offer inclusive, high-quality experiences.

They emphasize that they only create or continue races if there's a compelling reason to do so—always driven by what’s best for the athlete. Accessibility, community partnerships, and ongoing evolution are at the heart of their strategy.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:01:40] Early growth and Barry-Roubaix reconnaissance

[00:05:30] Building out a full race calendar

[00:08:15] How Tris4Health started

[00:10:30] Gravel triathlon and inclusivity

[00:12:00] Triathlon vs gravel race culture

[00:14:45] Entering the gravel scene

[00:16:00] Oversaturation and organic race creation

[00:18:00] Grand Rapids Fondo and charitable ties

[00:19:45] Athlete-first race planning

[00:21:00] Accessibility and beginner-friendly formats

[00:22:15] Balancing race production with personal fitness

[00:24:30] Worries: Volunteers and new races

[00:25:30] Most excited for: Fondo and Road to Hell

[00:26:15] Trevor considers Waterloo and Dirty Mitten