The Race Ramble: Women of Cowboy Tough 2026 Artwork

The thisABILITY Adventures Podcast

Join ThisABILITY Adventure Racing's podcast for tactical advice on adventure racing from a mid-pack team's perspective. Adventure racing is an endurance sport that combines biking, trekking, and paddling while navigating with map and compass. Our podcast primarily features Race Rambles, where we recount our team's experiences during specific races. We'll also share insights from our own races, ranging from short sprints to expedition-length events. Occasional interviews with guests, including the sport's most well-known figures and those new to adventure racing, will provide additional perspectives. As advocates for people with developmental disabilities, we believe in focusing on abilities, not limitations, a philosophy that applies to everyone. So join us to focus on your abilities, push your limits, and learn together.

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The thisABILITY Adventures Podcast

The Race Ramble: Women of Cowboy Tough 2026

August 18, 2026 • Team thisABILITY • Season 2 • Episode 32

0:00 | 1:39:55

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In this episode, Andrea Anderson sits down with Em Panietz, Sara Boyer, and Melissa Dupke-Bourgeois to talk about their incredible experience racing solo at Cowboy Tough, a grueling 50-hour adventure race.

What does it take to navigate, trek, bike, paddle, and push through the mental and physical challenges of an expedition-style race—all on your own?

Em Panietz took the challenge to another level, finishing as the 2nd overall winner! 🥈

Hear the stories, strategies, struggles, and lessons from three incredible women who took on Cowboy Tough solo. 🎧

Melissa is directing this race! ↓
https://adventuregirlsracing.org/team/

#AdventureRacing #CowboyTough #TeamThisABILITY #WomenInAdventureRacing #WomeninAR #USARA

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