Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago
Welcome to Flagstaff Bound, a special series from the Distance to Empty Podcast, hosted by 3-time Cocodona finisher Kevin Goldberg and 1-time Cocodona finisher Peter Noyes. This series explores the journeys, training, and motivations of runners gearing up for the 2025 Cocodona 250, offering a deep dive into the world of endurance trail running.
In this episode of Flagstaff Bound, we sit down with Michael Versteeg, the original Cocodona 250 champion and a runner whose connection to the race runs deeper than any finish line.
For Michael, Cocodona isn’t just a race—it’s his race. The course runs through his backyard. He knows every stretch, every climb, every brutal descent. And that knowledge isn’t just physical—it’s emotional. Cocodona is his Western States. His Hardrock. The one that matters most.
Michael reflects on his cocky debut, the harsh lessons he’s learned, and how Cocodona continues to challenge him in new ways. He shares why this race forces runners to confront their real reasons for showing up—and how the suffering strips away anything superficial by day two.
Catch new episodes right here on the Aravaipa Running YouTube channel, or listen to the Distance to Empty Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
📍 Subscribe for more: @aravaiparunning
🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/distance-to-empty/id1722571117
🎥 Subscribe to Mountain Outpost for the live broadcast: @mountainoutpost
🌍 More information on Cocodona 250: cocodona.com
Follow Michael on Instagram: instagram.com/michael.versteeg
#Cocodona250 #FlagstaffBound #DistanceToEmpty #TrailRunning #UltraRunning #EnduranceForAll
Aravaipa Running is committed to the development of a vibrant community centered around being active in the outdoors.
We feel most alive on a trail, experiencing the solitude and restorative power of nature.
From our course markings, pre-race email, chip timing, convenient packet pickups to unique awards we want to make your event experience flawlessly smooth and something you can count on.
From music to wood fired pizza, beer gardens, meeting new friends, beautiful trails to stunning sunrises and star filled nights, having fun is easy.
Come explore with us.
More Info Below:
Sign up for next year's event aravaiparunning.com/races
Get Live Updates live.aravaiparunning.com
Follow us on Social
Instagram instagram.com/aravaiparunning
Facebook facebook.com/aravaiparunning
Twitter twitter.com/AravaipaRunning
Follow Aravaipa Rides for Arizona's best Mountain Bike events instagram.com/aravaiparides
Subscribe to Run Steep Get High youtube.com/user/runsteepgethigh
Welcome to Flagstaff Bound, a special series from the Distance to Empty Podcast, hosted by 3-time Cocodona finisher Kevin Goldberg and 1-time Cocodona finisher Peter Noyes. This series explores the journeys, training, and motivations of runners gearing up for the 2025 Cocodona 250, offering a deep dive into the world of endurance trail running.
In this episode of Flagstaff Bound, we sit down with Michael Versteeg, the original Cocodona 250 champion and a runner whose connection to the race runs deeper than any finish line.
For Michael, Cocodona isn’t just a race—it’s his race. The course runs through his backyard. He knows every stretch, every climb, every brutal descent. And that knowledge isn’t just physical—it’s emotional. Cocodona is his Western States. His Hardrock. The one that matters most.
Michael reflects on his cocky debut, the harsh lessons he’s learned, and how Cocodona continues to challenge him in new ways. He shares why this race forces runners to confront their real reasons for showing up—and how the suffering strips away anything superficial by day two.
Catch new episodes right here on the Aravaipa Running YouTube channel, or listen to the Distance to Empty Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
📍 Subscribe for more: @aravaiparunning
🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/distance-to-empty/id1722571117
🎥 Subscribe to Mountain Outpost for the live broadcast: @mountainoutpost
🌍 More information on Cocodona 250: cocodona.com
Follow Michael on Instagram: instagram.com/michael.versteeg
#Cocodona250 #FlagstaffBound #DistanceToEmpty #TrailRunning #UltraRunning #EnduranceForAll
Aravaipa Running is committed to the development of a vibrant community centered around being active in the outdoors.
We feel most alive on a trail, experiencing the solitude and restorative power of nature.
From our course markings, pre-race email, chip timing, convenient packet pickups to unique awards we want to make your event experience flawlessly smooth and something you can count on.
From music to wood fired pizza, beer gardens, meeting new friends, beautiful trails to stunning sunrises and star filled nights, having fun is easy.
Come explore with us.
More Info Below:
Sign up for next year's event aravaiparunning.com/races
Get Live Updates live.aravaiparunning.com
Follow us on Social
Instagram instagram.com/aravaiparunning
Facebook facebook.com/aravaiparunning
Twitter twitter.com/AravaipaRunning
Follow Aravaipa Rides for Arizona's best Mountain Bike events instagram.com/aravaiparides
Subscribe to Run Steep Get High youtube.com/user/runsteepgethigh
