Beyond the Passes: Meaghan Hackinen's Journey Through the Silk Road Mountain Race

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I sit down once again with ultra-endurance athlete and writer Meaghan Hackinen, fresh off her incredible performance at the 2025 Silk Road Mountain Race. Over 1,954 kilometers and 28,000 meters of climbing through the rugged terrain of Kyrgyzstan, Meaghan not only finished the race, but she also crushed it, claiming 1st place in the women’s category and 10th overall, with a time of 9 days, 4 hours, and 6 minutes.

This conversation dives deep into the final chapter of her year-long quest to complete the Mountain Race Series, which included the Atlas Mountain Race, the Hellenic Mountain Race, and now, the Silk Road Mountain Race. We explore the grit, gear, and mindset it takes to thrive in some of the world’s harshest conditions, from her bike setup and tire choices to sleep strategies and mental resilience.

Whether you're a seasoned racer, a curious adventurer, or someone who just loves a good story of perseverance, this episode is a must listen. So, grab a drink, saddle up, and let's roll into Meaghan's journey across the mountains.

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