Brook Macdonald on the Crash That Changed His Life, Racing Again & Resilience
In this episode, legendary Kiwi downhill mountain biker Brook Macdonald (aka The Bulldog) opens up like never before.
He talks about:
🏆 Becoming a professional athlete and millionaire by age 30
đź’Ą The horrific 2019 crash that broke his back at World Champs
🧠The mental and physical battle to walk — and race — again
🔥 Red Bull sponsorship, mindset, money mistakes & what’s next
From chasing World Cup podiums to learning how to walk again, Brooke’s story is one of resilience, mindset, and insane determination.
Whether you’re into sport, rehab stories, or just love hearing people who’ve pushed the limits, you'll love this chat with "The Bulldog"
00:00 – Intro: Brooke MacDonald aka "The Bulldog"
02:15 – The niche challenge of mountain biking and chasing sponsors
03:35 – Why Red Bull is more than just a logo sponsor
05:30 – Early life: Rugby dreams vs mountain bike obsession
10:15 – Turning pro as teen: $125K contract + early career grind
15:12 – Financial lessons: Millionaire by 30 and no regrets?
22:00 – The crash that changed everything: 2019 World Champs
27:40 – 5 hours on the mountain in agony: The rescue disaster
34:15 – “Am I paralyzed?” Coming to terms with a broken back
41:00 – Learning to walk again – and race again
46:50 – Survivor’s guilt at Burwood Spinal Unit
50:45 – How mindset, discipline and quiet confidence fueled recovery
56:15 – Getting back on the bike: Fear, setbacks & progress
1:03:40 – What’s next after racing? Business, adrenaline & legacy
1:08:20 – Final reflections: Mental toughness, pride & how Brooke wants to be remembered
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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