Finding Courage Beyond the Finish | Beyond The Finish Line Guest: Ory Frazier
Redefining the Finish Line
In endurance sports, the finish line isn’t always a banner at the end of a race. For some athletes, it’s a personal milestone. It can be a moment of truth where they’ve bet on themselves and proved they could push through. In this episode of Beyond The Finish Line, host Joe Hardin sits down with ultra runner and ice climber Ory Frazier to talk about finding the courage to live authentically and chase self-defined goals. Guest host Jason Bahamundi, founder of Run Tri Bike, adds his trademark humor and perspective to the mix, making for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about authenticity in endurance sports.
From Two Miles to 100
Ory’s running journey began in 2019, during one of the most challenging periods of their life. What started as a painful two-mile jog evolved into a powerful outlet for healing and self-discovery. Step by step, Ory found strength, resilience, and the joy that comes from moving forward even when it’s hard. From completing the Badger 100 to tackling the unique mental battles of Six Days in the Dome, Ory has shown that progress is built on persistence.
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Running Authentically
A major theme of Ory’s journey is living life by choice, not obligation. They share openly about embracing their identity as a queer, non-binary athlete and why authenticity matters both on and off the course. For Ory, running isn’t just about performance, it’s about showing up fully as themselves and encouraging others to do the same.
The Power of Community
Endurance sports may be an individual effort, but no one truly runs alone. Ory credits friends, fellow runners, and inclusive race directors for helping them navigate both the victories and the disappointments, including learning from DNFs. The camaraderie of the running community isn’t just about pace—it’s about connection, encouragement, and shared experience.
Why Representation Matters
Ory also talks about the impact of non-binary race categories and the importance of inclusive practices in endurance sports. These changes aren’t just symbolic. They create space for more athletes to feel seen and valued. Representation, they say, can transform how people experience competition and belonging.
Looking Ahead
With dreams of conquering races like Leadville and Cocodona, Ory’s eyes are set on new adventures. Their story reminds us that every finish line is just another starting point, and that the real victory is having the courage to start in the first place.
💬 Join the Conversation: What’s your reason for running? Share your story and inspire others to find their own finish line.
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