Welcome back, Ruckers!
Today’s episode is a story about persistence, pain, laughter, and what happens when you stop waiting for perfect conditions and start moving anyway.
Since 2023, I’ve been piecing together a 32-mile challenge across three of Rochester’s historic trail systems:
Genesee Valley Greenway
Lehigh Valley Trail
Auburn Trail
This personal project, now known as the ROC Rail-to-Trail Trifecta, took me through 8 towns, 3 counties, and one massive transformation.
🟢 It started on horseback...
🟡 Shifted to rucking...
🔵 Ended with strength, resilience, and a pack full of stories.
This isn’t just a recap—it’s a blueprint for what happens when you show up, even when it’s messy. From urban chaos and grief-fueled solo hikes to the joy of finishing with a stranger-turned-teammate, this one’s got heart.
Whether you’re dreaming up your next adventure or still trying to find your “why,” you’ll want to hear this.
🔑 What You'll Hear:
How the idea of the ROC Trifecta was born
Why horseback riding pushed me to start rucking
What grief, failure, and a surprise protein shake can teach you on the trail
Why I doubled back just to hit a perfect GPS number
The unexpected community you find when you keep showing up
The new challenge I’m chasing next (and how to join me)
💬 Your Turn:
What’s your next challenge?
Use the hashtag #JustRuckItChallenge and tag @justruckingit on Instagram to share your goals, routes, and ruck-selfies.
You can also leave your story or “why” as a voice message on the Just Ruck It Substack for a chance to be featured in a future episode.
🔗 Links & Resources:
🎯 Take on the ROC Rail-to-Trail Trifecta Challenge:
ruckingrochester.com/product/roc-rail-to-trail-trifecta
Life is Rucking Wonderful!
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