The Runaround Podcast
Hi! My name is Sienna McEneaney and I am a high school journalism student and athlete who interviews other athletes about how sports affect their life. The Runaround Podcast will share the entire run-around of every guest’s experiences in and around athletics. Sports have the power to bring people together in a way not many other things can, and I want to help shine a light on that.
The Runaround Podcast
Turning a Crazy Idea into a Movement with Cole Basden
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Cole Basden went viral after completing what has become known as the "Quad Ultra"—running 100 laps (over 44 miles) around the University of Illinois Main Quad on Reading Day. It turned one of the most stressful days of the semester into an unforgettable challenge that inspired so many.
But the viral run is only part of his story.
In this episode, Cole shares how his passion for movement began, what inspired him to take on the Quad Ultra, and what it was like watching the challenge spread. We also talk about his time as a strength and conditioning intern at the University of Illinois, where he worked with Division I student-athletes, the lessons he learned from coaching and training others, and why he believes fitness should be accessible to everyone, not just elite athletes.
Whether you're chasing a big goal, looking for motivation to get moving, or simply curious about the crazy challenge he took on, this conversation is full of perspective, positivity, and a reminder that movement is more powerful than we realize.