Kia Ora Whanau. The year is screaming to an end but still we are bringing you the hits. For our 21st go around the podcast microphone Matt and Eugene find themselves ensconced in the luxurious environs of DCR acres and speaking with the force of nature that is Ruth Croft. West Coast (of the South Island of NZ, not like THE West Coast) native Ruth came to running through family adventure and a competitive drive that saw her undertake tertiary studies in Portland Oregon on a track and XC scholarship that became blighted with injury and a sense of disillusionment. Finding herself in Taipei teaching English, Ruth took a well deserved (and needed) break from running and well, if we let you know what happened, you could just read this and not listen. Spoiler Alert: Ruth is slaying it. Fastest woman at Speedgoat 50 km this year, winning the OCC at UTMB, winner of the Salomon Golden Trail Series, Scott athlete Ruth is making her mark on the international trail running scene. Focusing on shorter (relatively) events #nopoles has further reignited Ruth’s love of competition and we get to talk about all this and more in a wide ranging and generous conversation that we are delighted to share with you. Also in this episode (in no particular order): The difference in Matt and Eugene’s show prep, horse kissing, haiku, and the soul-crushing reality of being passed in a race by a man dressed in a nun suit. This one was super fun and we hope you like it. Enjoy!