More Than Miles: Team Nutrien’s Story | Fireside Chat
Every summer since 2018, a team of coworkers from Nutrien has gathered to race and share the story of one of the most demanding yet rewarding events in endurance sports: the Wild West Relay. Spanning 200 miles through Colorado and Wyoming, the relay pushes physical limits but what it really highlights is the power of community, mindset, and finding joy along the way.
Team Nutrien didn’t start out as a collection of seasoned runners. In fact, one of the team captains, Brock, originally joined as a van driver who couldn’t run a mile. Fast forward to today, and he’s logging miles year-round and leading the charge. Another teammate, Marylee, transformed from swimmer to ultra-relay veteran, running the event three times while pregnant, including at 38.5 weeks gestation. These are not just fitness stories . They’re stories of courage, evolution, and showing up when it matters. Eric, another member of the team, discusses his dislike, or hatred, of running before participating on the team.
How Mindset Makes the Miles Matter
What sets this team apart isn’t just their grit, but their perspective. The relay is grueling — with runners racing at all hours, navigating mountainous terrain, and functioning on little sleep. But despite the physical toll, the atmosphere remains light-hearted and encouraging.
Eric joined the team not knowing many people and hating running. Today, he credits the experience with transforming both his mindset and lifestyle. The group’s inclusive and welcoming vibe made the challenge feel not just possible, but enjoyable.
From inside jokes on brutal climbs (shoutout to Luigi and his famous “this sucks” moment) to 1 a.m. spaghetti dinners served by the beloved team “mom,” Selena, it’s clear that humor and tradition carry just as much weight as fitness or gear.
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The Emotional Backbone of Team Culture
For Team Nutrien, running is about connection just as much as it is about competition. Their bonds were tested and deepened through shared experiences, including moments of profound grief. When Marylee experienced a stillbirth, the team became more than just teammates — they became her support system. They rallied, grieved, and kept showing up for each other.
It’s these deeply human moments that remind us: endurance sports offer a platform for healing, belonging, and resilience. Whether you’re dealing with loss, loneliness, or a new life chapter, the miles become more meaningful when you’re not running them alone.
Organized Chaos: What It Takes to Relay Right
Behind the joyful chaos of Team Nutrien is a well-oiled machine. With 24 people split into two teams, they use a detailed system for assigning race legs, managing van logistics, and supporting runners with hydration, gear, and even fireball shots (yes, really).
Drivers stay awake for 36+ hours. Teammates share cold pizza and laughter. Porta-potty strategy becomes its own science. Through it all, there’s constant collaboration and a deep respect for each person’s contribution — runners, drivers, and cheerleaders alike.
Running for More Than a Medal
Beyond the finish line, Team Nutrien keeps the momentum going. They meet monthly on Zoom to prep for next year. They fundraise for local nonprofit Matthews House. They organize team runs, offer advice to new recruits, and, in some cases, even get tattoos to commemorate the experience.
This isn’t just about one race. It’s about a lifestyle shift — one that’s accessible to anyone willing to say “yes” to trying something hard, silly, and unforgettable.
Why This Story Matters to You
We celebrate stories like this because they remind us what endurance sports are really about. Yes, there’s training. Yes, there’s effort. But what keeps us going is the mindset. The people. The laughs. The perspective.
Team Nutrien shows us that it’s okay to start as a driver. It’s okay to be pregnant. It’s okay to be scared or out of shape or grieving. Just keep showing up, for yourself and your people. Their team and this Wild West Relay story isn’t just for one year but for a lifetime.
So the next time you’re staring down a long training run, remember this: it’s not just the distance, it’s the journey that defines you.
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