Gobi | From This Is Love
Summary
In this episode of *This Is Love*, host Phoebe Judge tells the story of Dion Leonard, a Scottish ultramarathon runner who bonded with a stray dog named Gobi during a brutal 155-mile race in China’s Gobi Desert. After deciding to carry Gobi across a dangerous river, Dion abandoned his chance to win the race to ensure her safety. When Gobi went missing in a Chinese city, Dion flew back to search for her, eventually reuniting after months of effort. The story concludes with Gobi’s journey to Scotland, where she now lives a happy, normal life with Dion.
Topics discussed
Intro and This Is Love podcast promotion
Dion Leonard's Gobi Desert ultramarathon
Sponsor reads and episode transition
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Dion's extreme training methods
Discovering the stray dog at the start
Dion's running habits and race context
The dog follows Dion through the mountains
Finish line surprise and naming Gobi
Feeding Gobi and bonding at camp
Rescuing Gobi from the river crossing
Carrying Gobi and growing attachment
Winning the stage with Gobi
Final stages and finishing together
The complex process of taking Gobi home
Logistical nightmares and Gobi going missing
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The search for Gobi in Urumqi
Reuniting with Gobi and her injury
Quarantine in Beijing and the journey home
Gobi meets the family cat and settles in
Daily life and running with Gobi
Show credits and closing remarks
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