Episode 25 - Bringing 200-Mile Ultra Marathons to Australia with Shaun Kaesler
In this episode, Luke sits down with Shaun Kaesler, founder and race director of Ultra Series Australia. Since 2016, Shaun has been creating ultramarathon adventures across the country, from the first point-to-point 200 miler in the Southern Hemisphere to some of the world’s biggest backyard ultras.
Shaun shares how his own obsession with testing limits, starting with 5Ks and leading to the Tahoe 200 in the US, became the spark for building a thriving ultra running community in Australia. From wildlife encounters and sleep-deprived hallucinations to the quirky traditions that make Delirious 200 so unique, this conversation is packed with stories of grit, growth, and unforgettable human achievement.
Key Takeaways:
Shaun’s unforgettable Tahoe 200 experience: mountain lions, bears, and family crewing.
How Delirious 200 grew from a bold idea into a world-recognised ultra with a passionate community.
Why Ultra Series celebrates not only the winners but also the last finisher with equal respect.
The unique traditions of Delirious: jet ski crossings, shuttle races, and “paying the ferry master.”
The rise of backyard and frontyard ultras and why these formats are exploding in popularity.
What keeps Shaun grounded: the community, the culture, and the belief that every person is capable of more than they realise.
Guest Bio:
Shaun Kaesler is the founder and creator of Ultra Series Australia since 2016, bringing ultramarathons to life across the country. He introduced the first point-to-point 200 miler in the Southern Hemisphere and has built some of the world’s biggest backyard ultras. More than just organising races, Shaun is passionate about creating community, culture, and opportunities for people to discover what they’re truly capable of.
Visit the Ultra Series website - https://www.ultraseries.com.au/
