Read what the community is saying about THRU
“Joe helped me, and many others, out at No Business 100 mile in October 2024. He worked with my crew and pacers to give advice and help in any way he could. His knowledge on feet care really helped keep me in good shape until the finish line. Careful, he loves taking chairs away towards the end of races to keep people moving. It’s easy to be intimidated by Joe if you exclusively look at his Strava because of his athletic endeavors. When meeting him in person you would never guess he was an ultra-running juggernaut because he is modest and meets people where they’re at. He wants people to exceed their goals and pushes them in order for meet their potential but also has empathy to ensure you don’t get burned out or lose hope. I’m fortunate to have Joe as a friend and as someone to help guide my ultra running career.”
- Ryan
“As Crew Chief, Joe bought into my race plan in 2023 and 2024 at No Business 100. He provided solutions for any race day problems that inevitably come up during both my races. My feet couldn’t thank him enough! He's so supportive at aid stations you won't even need a chair to rest.”
- Travis
“Joe's approach to coaching and his love for the sport is next level. I can speak first hand no matter how small or large the goal he’s always on board to keep you on track. I can also speak as a not naturally gifted athlete that it doesn’t matter, he truly loves the community at all levels. He really is a one of a kind guy that cares and will find a way to prove success in everyone he works with regardless of whatever limitations or obstacles they may have. Give him a shot and invest in yourself and your success, you won’t regret it!!! Joe talked me into buying a dog for my wife. Little did I know he was actually just finding me a daily training partner.”
- Ross
“After 4 years of lottery entries, I finally got into my bucket-list race Mount Marathon. Living in Nashville, I was a bit dumbfounded as to how to get ready for an Alaskan mountain 5k with 3000ft of both vertical and descent. Joe presented an out-of-the-box plan to prepare me for an all-out hour of climbing and descending 60% grade scree! And … It worked! A well-crafted combination of Pyramid-of-Tempos, alternating weekly intervals of climb and descent, and MLR’s boosted my confidence and helped me focus my limited time and energy on what really mattered. On race day I was ready for whatever the mountain hit me with: roots, cliffs, 12” deep mud, rain, snow, ice, scree, 40mph gusts of wind, all packed into an hour and 22 minutes of full throttled, adrenaline rushed Alaskan trail heaven!”
- Josh
“I am so thankful for Joe’s guidance in training for my first 50k race. Joe wrote my training plan to fit my runs into a demanding semester of law school. Not only did Joe write a plan that worked well with my unique schedule, he checked in and encouraged me throughout the process. On race day, I was able to move well throughout and most importantly, enjoy the whole thing while finishing strong and recovering quickly. I’d recommend Joe as a coach to anyone. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and truly wants to help others achieve their goals.”
- Brooke
Joe helped me finish my first 100 mile ultra having fun, uninjured, and in a time I was happy with. Having finished my first ultra only one year before, I had a lot of learning to do before I accomplished the big 100 mile. Joe created a science based training plan that worked on various aspects of training, from speed work, to strength, to endurance. The plan was tailor made for my schedule and current abilities, and he helped me adjust it when setbacks happened. Joe always had helpful answers to the questions I had, and helped me to understand the “why” behind my race. Joe’s coaching enabled me to grow my love for running, and have the best race I have ever had in my life. I would recommend THRU to anyone!
- Nathan
“Joe prepared and motivated me to run the 4x4x48 challenge with him 2020. This is a challenge where you are tasked to run 4 miles at the top of every 4th hour until crossing 48 miles... It was one of my all-time favorite running experiences. The challenge not only helped me grow as an individual, but I was able to apply the strength and resilence I learned to my every day life. Joe is a far more capable runner than me. He was remarkably encouraging and supportive through the whole experience. We didn't end with a medal, but I still have a crushed Lone Star can from the drink we shared to celebrate that accomplishment. I highly recommend working with Joe. You will be glad that you did.”
- Andrew
“Joe’s experience shines through in his ability to prepare his runners for their races and events. His guidance in training, nutrition, and race day strategy is unmatched. His knowledge and personal experiences always motivate me to be confident on the road or out on the trail. If you are looking to sharpen any aspect of your training I highly recommend preparing with Joe for your future adventures. As a Firefighter my schedule and workday physcial demands change a lot. Joe is a master at adjusting my training plan to meet my needs based on my current state of energy and fatigue. Up next Disnsey Marathon!!”
- Jim
“I was born with vision and heart complication and did not start working out until my early thirties. I am very involved with my career and Joe was able to build me a plan where I was capable of accomplishing my goals on three days a week of training. Over about a year and a half I went from barely being able to finish my first 5k to winning the BURCS virtual treadmill marathon. Now Joe has motivated me to step off the treadmill and achieve goals I did not think were possible. From weight training to solo hiking Ben Nevis in Scotland I have accomplished more than I ever imaged. Thanks Joe! “
- Mike
“I am a self-described ‘mere mortal' in my 60s and ready to re-experience the accomplishments of my 30s: road races, marathons, and long cycling adventures. Joe helps me identify current-day events and prepare my mind, body, fuel, and equipment. With Joe, it's more than "why not?"; he brings in, "how do you feel about this?" For me, no more road marathons. Instead, throughout the year, Joe helps me summit peaks over 14,000', enjoy weekly trail runs, and complete long cycling adventures. I never imagined registering for a 50k event, but in 60 days, I'll be on that start line while staying engaged in my family and work life. Joe is an accomplished runner with an uncommon attribute: the heart of a servant. I am fortunate to have crossed paths with him.”
- Andrew
