Introduction:
Hybrid racing is reshaping the landscape of endurance sports—fusing the explosive power of strength training with the relentless stamina of high-volume cardio. At the heart of this evolution are athletes like Greyson Kilgore, a decorated competitor who brings the fire of a former collegiate sprinter into the grit of hybrid sport.
In this exclusive conversation, Matt sits down with Greyson to explore the highs, hurdles, and hidden gems of training for events like DEKA and HYROX. The discussion dives into everything from Greyson’s roots as a 400m runner to his current focus on the DEKA Mile and his upcoming international race in Barcelona.
Whether you're a fellow hybrid athlete, a fan of the sport, or someone exploring the power of performance mindset, this deep dive offers insight into the physical training, mental toughness, and community spirit that define the hybrid racing experience.
Interview: Greyson Kilgore x Matt
Matt: You’ve been competing at a high level in hybrid racing, especially in DEKA. What’s your current focus, and what are you excited about?
Greyson: Right now, I’m training for the Last Chance Qualifier in Barcelona. That’s been the big goal. I’m feeling optimistic—especially for the DEKA Mile, where I’ve come close to a world record before. I know the time’s in me, and I’m excited to test that.
Matt: You train out of Boise, right? What’s that environment like for a hybrid athlete?
Greyson: Boise is awesome. It’s got the outdoorsy vibe with great trails, mountain biking, skiing—you name it. That diversity really helps with training. It’s a city that supports movement and adventure, which keeps me engaged in and out of the gym.
Matt: You have a track background, particularly the 400m. How has that influenced your approach to hybrid events?
Greyson: A lot. The 400m is brutal—it’s sprinting mixed with lactic hell. That experience gave me a tolerance for discomfort and taught me about pacing under pressure. But hybrid is different too. It’s not just about speed; it’s about sustaining power under fatigue and being mentally tough throughout.
On Training, Transition, and Body Awareness
Matt: Let’s talk about training. How do you balance endurance and strength without sacrificing either?
Greyson: It’s a constant dance. I had to build my aerobic base with high volume—up to 15 hours a week. That was a big shift. But I didn’t want to lose the strength side, so I kept lifting heavy, especially in the off-season. Now it’s about maintenance and being strategic with race prep—things like double threshold days and conditioning-focused lifts.
Matt: How has your body changed since college track days?
Greyson: I was leaner and faster then. Now I’ve added more muscle, which helps in some ways but also means I have to be smarter about mobility and recovery. I’ve learned to listen to my body more instead of forcing intensity just to prove something.
The Mind Game of Racing
Matt: There’s a lot of mental stress that comes with racing at this level. How do you manage that?
Greyson: It’s real. Especially after big efforts, your nervous system takes a hit. I’ve learned that recovery isn’t just physical—it’s mental too. Nutrition, rest, unplugging from pressure... all that matters. I also try to stay present. One race doesn’t define you. It’s about the body of work.
Matt: What’s been one of your toughest race experiences?
Greyson: Definitely a recent team race where I lost nearly 50 seconds due to equipment issues. That cost us a podium spot. It was frustrating, but it taught me a lot about preparation and focus. Every detail matters at this level.
Looking Ahead: Competition, Community, and Purpose
Matt: You’re headed to Spain soon—what’s that feel like?
Greyson: I’m pumped. It’s an international stage and a chance to test myself against some of the best. It’s a gift to compete like this, and I don’t take that lightly.
Matt: How important is the hybrid racing community to you?
Greyson: It’s huge. Even though some pros have moved away from DEKA, the age group athletes and smaller teams keep the spirit alive. There’s real camaraderie here. It’s not just about medals—it’s about support, showing up, and pushing each other to grow.
Key Takeaways from Greyson’s Interview
- Balance is essential in hybrid racing—between speed, strength, and recovery.
- Mental recovery is just as important as physical training, especially in high-stress environments.
- Community plays a huge role in motivation, growth, and sustainability as an athlete.
- Details matter. From gear to mindset, preparation can be the difference between podium and frustration.
- It’s a marathon of moments, not a single defining race. Staying grounded in the process is key.
💥 Ready to Go Hybrid?
Feeling inspired by Greyson’s journey? Whether you’re an athlete eyeing your next DEKA, a coach refining your strategy, or someone stepping into hybrid fitness for the first time—now’s your time.
📩 Join the conversation:
Drop a comment below—what’s your biggest takeaway from this interview?
📆 Don’t miss out: The DEKA Athlete Clinic is coming up April 18th—perfect for anyone looking to level up their race-day execution.
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