Trail Racing's Disruptor: How Rob Goyen Revolutionized the Texas Running Scene

DFW Running Talk

In this captivating episode of DFW Running Talk, host Chris Detzel sits down with Rob Goyen, a transformative figure in Texas trail running who revolutionized the sport through his company Trail Racing Over Texas (TROT). The conversation unfolds as an intimate journey through Goyen's remarkable evolution from a 350+ pound alcoholic to a pioneering race director who changed the landscape of trail running in Texas.

Key Narrative Threads:

1. Personal Transformation
- Goyen's battle with alcoholism and journey to sobriety (12 years sober)
- Discovery of running as a replacement for addiction
- Accidental introduction to trail running through Houston's Memorial Loop

2. Business Innovation
- Creation of Trail Racing Over Texas (TROT) from informal group runs
- Expansion from 2 to 17 races annually
- Revolutionary marketing approaches including Facebook Live events and sign-up-a-thons
- Strategic focus on social media and community building
- Detailed insights into race economics and business operations

3. Operational Excellence
- Emphasis on volunteer management and appreciation
- Development of ambassador programs
- Strategic approach to race scaling and growth
- Focus on consistent race experiences across events
- Innovation in race technology and communication

4. Personal Cost & Challenges
- Impact of losing a runner at Brazos Bend
- Mental health struggles and anxiety
- Balance between business success and family life
- Decision to step away from race directing
- Transition to Ultra Signup role

5. Industry Insights
- Evolution of trail running community in Texas
- Importance of business acumen in race directing
- Role of volunteers in race success
- Future of race technology and communication
- Balance between growth and maintaining community feel

The episode provides both inspirational personal narrative and practical business insights, making it valuable for aspiring race directors, trail runners, and anyone interested in the intersection of business and outdoor sports. Goyen's candid discussion of both successes and struggles offers a rare glimpse into the realities of building and running a successful trail racing company while managing personal challenges and family obligations.

This episode stands out for its raw honesty, practical business insights, and the compelling story of personal transformation through trail running. It serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspirational guide for those interested in the business side of trail running events.

Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
Format: Interview/Conversation
Notable Quote: "My job is to put really big races on that feel like really small races."