Understanding Ultra

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Episode 2 of 2 Podcast regular Jon Shield and and newbie Louise Goddard come onto the podcast to talk about their upcoming races this weekend.Jon returns to put the full Spine to bed after his DNF last year with a stomach bug.We find out how his recent training and racing has gone. We talk about his feet during his recent race at Cape Wrath and his he's preparing for more foot carnage at this years race!Louise, who made a brief appearance on one of the winter Spine podcasts back in January, has set herself up for a busy week at the Spine.Not only is she racing the Sprint South....but she's also racing the inaugural Sprint North! then she's volunteering for the week too! We dive into her recent racing success and how she intends to approach doing the double at this weeks race!HT@ultrarunning_sam @hometrails_ http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Episode 1 of 2.Julian Ayres and Chris Andrade return to the podcast to talk about Challenger South starting this Saturday morning.We catch up on what they've been up to since we last spoke to them. We find out their reasons for doing this race with the choice 5 races on offer now, with the addition of Sprint North.We dive into their preparation leading up to this race and how they plan to attack the route.Episode 2 on the way......HT@ultrarunning_sam @hometrails_ http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to authors Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson.Last month the duo launched their book ULTRA WOMEN, a book all about the history of women's endurance throughout the years. This book reveals the sometimes hidden history of women's sporting achievements and paints the picture of the opposition that women have faced over the years.The book tells the stories of multiple women that have gone above and beyond what has been expected of them by the largely sexist male population. The book shows that women have always been equal to men, if not better when I comes to extended feats of endurance.The book starts with Jasmin Paris crushing the field at the Spine Race and quite rightly finishes with her record breaking run at Barkley. But this isn't another book about Jasmin, it's a tribute to every woman that has achieved greatness in the face of doubt by their peers!A great read and highly recommended! @ultrarunning_sam @hometrails_ http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode of the podcast I speak to Keith Wigley about his 3rd place at UTS 100k.Keith has patiently worked his way up to a performance that put him firmly on the podium along side running veterans, Jon Albon and Mathieu Blanchard! Keith talks about how his training has improved with the guidance of the Elite Trail Running Team and how he now has his sights set on Worlds in September. Keith is a very down to earth runner who is happy to share secrets to his success. A must watch/listen for all upcoming British trail runners looking to improve their own running. HTSee the link below to free resources from the ETThttps://www.elitetrailteam.com/ett-runclub@ultrarunning_sam @hometrails_ http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode of the @hometrails_ podcast we speak to Mike McMonagle, aka @shitinthewoodsWe ask Mike the Superhero question and find out that his reputation as the ‘fast media guy' is well earned. Recently, Mike made the trip from Salt Lake City to North Wales to take part in Ultra Trail Snowdonia. We ask Mike why he took on one of Europe's toughest ultramarathons. We find out how he trained for the unique terrain and his experience as a US runner. We also dive into a conversation about the UK trail and fell running scene. How it differs from anything found in the US and how he now officially loves British trail running. I think he basically fell in love with the UK! Who can blame him! HT@ultrarunning_sam @hometrails_ http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Charlotte returns to the Home Trails podcast for another catch up.This time its to talk about her awesome performance at UTS over the past weekend. Last year Charlotte was sick going into the race and although she gritted it out to finish, she felt like she had more to give at this iconic by UTMB race.We talk about what went right, what went wrong and how she got into beast mode tho finish the race sting and in 3rd place!It's always great to catch up with Charlotte, who has now become a regular guest on the HTP. Im sure we will be seeing more of her this year as she takes on Lakeland 100 in July.@ultrarunning_sam @hometrails_ http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Tom returns to the Home Trails podcast!We talk about his 3rd place at the UTS 100 miler at the past weekend. We dive into his training and racing leading up to his podium success and we discuss the changes he's made to bring him back to his former racing form.One of which is upping his iron intake to raise his ferritin levels and help him to regain his strength and recovery prowess!We talk about his race calendar for the year and how this performance sets him up for his goals later in the year at UTMB.@ultrarunning_sam @hometrails_ http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Home Trails were the official Podcast in residence at The LAP 2025!This is a long episode but it has 3 distinct parts. So if you were interviewed by me over the weekend then it should be fairly easy to find yourself if you want to skip some parts.In the first section I speak to everyone in the queue for registration on Friday night. So if you were one of the unlucky ones to smile at me and then receive an interview, then it will be in the first 30 mins The middle part from around 30 mins is the pre-race chats at the start on Saturday morning. Then the on course interviews, mainly at Troutbeck (the pizza checkpoint) I also speak to race winners Lucy Gossage, Tom Smith and the previous course record holder, second placed male Joel Jameson.Then we dive back out on course to speak to everyone coming through the final checkpoint at Finsthwaite, just 5.3 miles from the end where we wrap things up.Thanks to everyone who put up with me pointing a GoPro or camera in their face over the weekend. Please feel free to share the episode in either audio or video, to anyone you know who was at the race over the weekend.URSHOME TRAILS 

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode of the Home Trails Podcast, I speak to Rebecca Hormann.Last week, Rebecca stormed to victory at the GB ULTRAS Pennine Barrier 50 in 8:45:58, to not only win, but take 4th place overallRebecca is well traveled and holds multiple passports due to her heritage. She grew up in America, then moved to Spain for her soccer career (football), then moved to Malaysia, followed by Northern Ireland, Switzerland and finally good old Blighty!During her travels Rebecca started to run, then the pandemic hit and she really got into running.Since then she's gone from strength to strength, either winning or podiuming in every race she enters! I first met Rebecca at Alston during her Spine Challenger North race back in January, where I mistook her for a Canadian I'd raced with previously! Fortunately, she saw the funny side and didn't hold it against meWe made arrangements to podcast after that race, but due to my poor scheduling its taken until now to sort out!Rebecca was a pleasure to speak to and

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to the ball of energy and enthusiasm that is Davy Newell!Since 2019 Davy has been putting on The LAP in the Lake District, a 47 mile ultramarathon around lake Windermere.Davy has gradually scaled up the race since its first inception before the pandemic, turning it into one of the UK's most recognised and iconic ultras in the Lakes.This year Davy has stepped up his media presence and next week I will be the official podcast in residence at the 2025 LAP!So in this episode, we meet the man behind the race and dive into his eclectic background. To say Davy has been there, done that, got the T-shirt is a bit of an understatement! Hailing from Northern Ireland, he's traveled around the globe from Africa to south America before finally settling in The Lakes to start a family.His own running was cut short with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, which left him with only partial use of one leg. But that didn't stop him from diving into the events organisation business and breaking Guinness world records! We talk about his life up until now, how the LAP got started and his plans for it for the future!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to returning guest, Scott Jenkins.Scott was last on the show in 2024, when he became the first Brit to complete the Gland Slam of 200's in the US.Since then Scott has moved from the the UK to New Jersey in the States. This gives him access to some of his favourite long course ultramarathons, including his latest race, The Arizona Monster 300!Which as you've guest, is a 300 mile epic ultra across the desert put on by Destination Trails, who recently came under some criticism for how the race was organised and delivered.Scott gives his firsthand experience of the race and defends the organisers and lets us know what actually happened at the inaugural 300 miler.So listen up to find out if he had to 'poop in a bucket'!URS 

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️This is a solo news episode.I opine on Northern Traverse results, who's going to Western States, the controversies surrounding Destination Trails race, The Monster 300 and what's being said about it on social media and Reddit.I also chat about my recent race at Ranger Ultras PB137 and and how I rolled my ankle 3 times, threw up 4 times, but still managed to hold onto 2nd place!URS  

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️This episode is an emotional one, so be prepared!Luke talks about the moment as a 24 year old, that he now says was the end of everything he ever knew to be right with the world. The moment he was diagnosed with terminal cancer.Having ignored a nagging pain in his shoulder for nearly 6 months, he finally went to the doctors and found that he had a tumour the size of a mango under his shoulder blade, as well as multiple metastasis in his lungs.Rather than wallow in sadness, (which nobody could have denied him) he did what he could during his treatment. Cycling on a stationary bike for a hour and walking around Bristol Harbour for an hour. He even managed to start running and somehow ran a half marathon in 80 minutes during his treatment! After treatment he upped his cardio and cycled from Bristol to Beijing on a tandem bike! (see the film 'A life in tandem")From there he realised that he had a diesel engine and turned his attention to trail and ultra. Wnning his first ultra in Wicklow Ireland and then a sky running race, all within 2 weeks! From there he has won Golden Trail races, races by UTMB and it seems there's no stopping him now!Lukes life may have been marred by tragedy, but his upbeat and positive attitude seem to exude from him and you can't help but be inspired!Good things to come for this lad from the South West!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this podcast we speak to returning guest Fiona Pascall.Fi is back for a third time to talk about her recent success at Chianti by UTMB.Fi beat some of the best international ultra runners to win the race and secure her golden ticket to the big dance in Auburn for Western States this June.Although she is undecided about wether to take the ticket to WSER, we all know its probably to most likely outcome as even she admits that it could be a once in a lifetime situation. We talk about her training leading into the race, how it went on the day and how it didn't feel like a decisive win for her, even with a 19 minute gap over 2nd place.We also dive into her new project, Trail Retreats, to hear about the long term plan that Fi and her partner Matt have for the running camp that recently came to fruition.We can't wait to see how she does toeing the line at WSER in just a few short months!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Instagram Live with Robin the Running Accountant!We dive into all the action from Barkley Marathons and we chat about what might go down at Chianti by UTMB this coming weekend!

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to Dicksy, AKA Simon Dicks.Simon is a very humble, but also a very accomplished ultra runner. Whose won races in opposite environments. From the jungle and desert, to the snow and ice. I caught up with him at the end of this years winter Spine Race and we booked to talk about all things Spine Race......But we couldn't make it work until now. So although we do talk about Britain's Most Brutal race, we mainly talk about his growing business helping ultra runners sort out their running technique and get themselves into the best shape they can for running big races.Simon talks about the people he's helped and the races he's now done to gain the experience he knows his clients need from him.To get in touch with Simon to book coaching, hit the below links....www.focusedrunning.comInstagram - ultradicksy_coachingFacebook - Focused RunningTikTok - focusedrunning_coachingURS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to returning guest Stu Westfield from Ranger Ultras.Ranger Ultras hold a special place for me and my racing career, with the PB57 being my first race win back in 2019.So this conversation is a catch up with Stu and a chat about what we've both been up to over the years since we last sat down for chat. Stu's races really are representative of what local grassroots ultramarathon's are all about. Low prices, maximum fun and a loyal community of racers. If you haven't done one of Stu's races before then I suggest you look them up!Stu spent many years as part of the Spine safety team, before setting up his own race company rangerultras.co.uk.Ranger Ultras delivers financially accessible events in and around the Peak District and Yorkshire Moors.In line with his ethos of low key, high quality events. Stu felt that trail runners should be able to enjoy the views of the Pennines that the big corporate sponsored multi-day races offer (mentioning no names) but without the huge price tag. This led to the conception of his PB270 and PB137 races in April.Both fully supported start the clock ultras up the Pennine Bridleway, from Middleton Top near Matlock, to Kirkby Stephen for the 270.The 137 goes from Hebden Bridge to Kirkby Stephen, starting a day later.All of the wow factor of a multi-day race along the Pennines, but without the traveling circus and high costs.Ranger Ultras currently offer the below races throughout the year for you to get stuck into!PB270 - Pennine Bridleway ChallengePB137 - Pennine Bridleway ChallengeYorkshire 3 Peaks Peak District South and North (1 day or full weekend options)PB55km UltraPB18km UltraHigh Peak 70/100 UltraHigh Peak 18km TrailAs well as the grand slam over the race season.....Follow the below link to find out more rangerultras.co.ukURS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️If you're a shoe geek, you won't want to miss this one!Chris, AKA The Key Cobbler, has shot to social media fame with his instagram reels showing his skills as a cobbler, based in Kendal in the Lake District. Returning running shoes back to their former glory, he has quickly gained a reputation for being the go-to guy for anything shoe repair.But it's not just his repair skills that he's in demand for. He's also gained a reputation for modifying shoes. Including, taking brand new road super shoes and fitting them with Vibram trail soles, to make them trail super shoes!Chris is clearly a guy that's passionate about his job and I must admit that when we arranged the podcast, I was worried that we would run out of things to talk about! But that's obviously not the case!We talked about the challenges of running a business through the pandemic. We dive into sustainability in shoe brands and how he now finds himself rubbing shoulders with Damian Hall, The Green Runners, PairUps and other organisations who are pushing back on fast fashion.We also briefly talk about how his skills recently got him in trouble with a major brand and a very well known ultra-runner.......we'll mention no names, but you may already know who I'm talking about!With his partnership with Vibram, he's on a mission to get 1000's of more miles out of our trusty old daps!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Audio taken from the documentary on YouTube https://youtu.be/G0C8ACMuayE?si=TQisjHbHhj9Zu7GwWelcome to HOME TRAILS episode 3.This time I interview Kim Collison about his return to this years Spine Race, to take the win on his 4th attempt!When his critics said it couldn't be done in the way he approached it, Kim silenced every one of them by winning the race in the way he always intended. From the front, pushing all the way!For the TRAILS part of the interview we hit Kims local fells around Blencathra, in the Lake District. Taking in the local trails that he used to prepare for all 4 of his Spine Races over the years.For the HOME part, we sit down in Kim's kitchen and dive into his 'CONFIDENCE' approach for this year. An exercise that involved him writing down the word 'Confidence' on a piece of paper and then writing all the reasons he had for confidence going into this years race.Kim talks openly about his struggles over the years to get the result he wanted, in the way he wanted it to happen.He is also very open in his thoughts on the infamous Spine kit list! This is a long form conversation with one of the greatest UK trail runners of all time. Sit down with a coffee and enjoy HOME TRAILS Ep:3URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to Danny Stokes from TrailFam.TrailFam is a charity that Danny set up after seeing the kids at his school suffer because they didn't have access to green spaces during the pandemic.TrailFam provides access to nature and the outdoors through the sport of trail running. They're programs are designed to inspire, motivate, and empower young people. TrailFam is on a journey to transform the lives of young people across the UK. In the episode we speak about Dannys own running, his job as a secondary school teacher and his own experience during the various lockdowns that we all endured during the pandemic. Danny talks about the positive influence that the charity is achieving through its work and how the support of some well known UK trail runners is helping to inspire the kids to do great things on and off the trail!If you want to get involved with the work of TrailFam then please hit the links below to find out more! IG - trail.famWeb - trailfam.comEmail - danny@trailfam.com URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode of the podcast I speak to rising ultra star Sam Skinner!Sam shot to fame in 2023 when he took 2nd place at the Centurion Winter Downs 200. Since then he's steadily made a name for himself as one of the nicest guys in ultramarathon. But don't let that fool you....Sam is one determined cookie! We talk about his route into ultras, which involved some serious life adjustments. From a stalled career in football, then as a boxer, Sam was a sportsman in every sense except one.....he was addicted to binge drinking!Sam put all of this behind him to not only quit drinking, but also to restart his life as an athlete. Focusing his 'all or nothing' drive into training for long ultras and at the same time building a community of runners with his George and Falcon Trail Running Group. A community designed for likeminded trail runners to come together through the love of the trails.Sam's journey led him to this years Spine Race which is obviously where our paths crossed!Sam spent much of the race at the sharp end, running with the leaders for the majority of the race until he found his pacing stride with Robyn Cassidy who he stayed with until reaching Kirk Yetholm.Sam ran the Spine in aid of a cancer charity that is close to his heart.Please follow the below link to donate and also look up the George and Falcon running group.https://www.justgiving.com/page/samuel-skinner-1732141833668?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CLURS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to long time podcast listener and friend of the show, Alice Kershaw!Alice could possibly be a bigger fan of the Spine Race than even I am, which is saying something obviously!Alice loves the race so much that she's ran nearly all of the (now) 4 races in the summer and the winter editions. With podiums places in the Sprint, South and full Summer Spine Race! So it's safe to say that she's a fully paid up member of the Spine Family!In this interview we dive into Alice's training and laid back, sometimes fun approach to racing. We talk about her best and worst bits of this years race and her opinion on the coverage that the women's race got.Alice is an infectious joyful person that I challenge anyone to meet and not feel cheered up afterwards!

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode of the podcast we speak to Tiaan Erwee who took 3rd place at this years Winter Spine Race.Tiaan had unfinished business at the winter edition of the race after suffering 2 DNFs. He then came back to smash the overall summer Spine record, knocking 7 hours off the previous course record!So coming back to do what he knew could be done at the race was his goal for this year. As we know the leading pack shifted back and forth, but Tiaan was always near the front and in contention for the podium!Tiaan is a super humble guy and a pleasure to interview,  I'm sure he will be back in 2026 to have another go at Britain's Most Brutal race!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Welcome to the last episode of the podcast in residence at the Spine Race!In this episode we round up the week of racing and we get final thoughts from Allie Bailey and Phil Hayday-Brown.We talk to James Thurlow about Open Tracking and the growing sport of dot watching!The interviews will continue in the next few weeks as we resume a normal podcasting schedule!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Welcome back to the resident podcast for the 2025 Montane Winter Spine Races!In this episode we see the winners of the full Spine and Challenger North races. Lucy Gossage wins the women's race and Kim Collison makes it 4th time lucky to finish and simultaneously win the Montane Winter Spine Race!Nicky Spinks and Paul Grundy win the women's and mens Challenger North races in super quick style!The last episode of the podcast residency lands in the next few days as the race draws to a close sadly!In episode 6 we recap all the action and have some behind the scenes interviews for any of the dot watching nerds out there. Stay locked in!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Welcome back to the resident podcast for the 2025 Montane Winter Spine Races!In this episode we speak to the women of the race!We have trail interviews with Lucy Gossage, Robyn Cassidy, Nicki Arthur, Sarah Perry and Laura Swanton Rouvelin.We talk to checkpoint staff about their observations on how the women are doing and how they personally draw inspiration from them battling against the weather and the terrain of Britain's Most Brutal Race!Nicki Lygo - Checkpoint Lead, tells us about the history of the women's race and how performances like Jasmin Paris's overall course record that stood for 5 years, has shaped the way that the Spine Race has celebrated the outstanding performances of its women over the years.To finish we talk to resident author and presenter Allie Bailey, who is at the race to present and bring extra focus to the women's race. Allie as always gives us frank thoughts on what the sport is doing wrong and what we as men can do to help women's running now and in the future!Tune in for more to come this week at the Spine!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Welcome back to the resident podcast for the 2025 Montane Winter Spine Races!In this episode we speak to the women's and men's podium for Challenger South and North. We talk to Nicki Spinks and Samantha Lissauer about Challenger North and Jon Shield gives us a lesson in gluing his Leki poles back together! (as well as his thoughts on the race, obviously)We also catch Kim Collison briefly at CP2 Hawes, where he was leading the race ahead of Eugenie and the following pack.Tune in for more to come this week at the Spine!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️This is not a traditional podcast episode but......this is the audio from the start line interviews during the extended Instagram LIVE. If you're a SPINE nerd you will appreciate this....if not then please don't come at me in the comments!Featured are Laura Swanton Rouvelin, Hannah Rickman, Allie Bailey, Sarah Perry, Simon Roberts and a host of off the cuff interviews.Maybe you recognise a voice and can tell me who I spoke to?Send me a message!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Episode 2 dives into some of the contenders from the mens race and Jack and Damo interview each other? Next they will be arm wrestling!More episodes to come this week so stay tuned!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️The Ultrarunning Sam Podcast becomes the resident podcast for the Spine Race 2025!Tune in for regular episodes throughout the week!This episode is an intro to the week and some thoughts on Challenger South.URS 

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️I talk to Mike and Craig from the Running Show about what they have in store for us at this years show.We talk about what Mike has been up to since we last spoke. We talk about Craigs baptism of fire at the LA Marathon and when he will complete his first ultra!Was great to catch up with the team and hear about all of the stuff they have planned......including a 48HR world record attempt on the treadmill by Sophie Power! (rather her than me!)For tickets to the show head over to https://nationalrunningshow.com URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️Myself and Robin are joined (briefly) by Kate to start the TURA 2024 awards podcast!We dive into the stats and reveal the winners. From best brand, most sustainable race to the big one........Trail runner of the year!Theres lots to unpack from the awards and we will be releasing the additional info from each category to give everyone the full picture of how people voted.We've learned a lot from the experience and we hope that people enjoyed the first edition of TURA. As we've said all along, we will improve going forward and we look forward to everyones input in the coming year!Thanks to everyone who took the time and voted. We will reveal the prize winner tomorrow!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to Laura Swanton Rouvelin, who is returning to this years Spine Race.Laura has had mixed success at the Spine over the years, from a DNF due to back pain, to returning only to have the same back issues, but gutting out the rest of the race to finish. She then came back in the summer of 2023 to land on the podium in 2nd place and 7th overall for Britains Most Brutal race.This time she takes on the winter race hoping to better her previous performances.We talk about her approach to training and how that's changed over the years under the watchful eye of her coach - Kim Collison. We talk about the steps she's taken to strengthen her back in preparation for carrying the infamous "Spine Pack"We talk a lot about how she juggles work, parenting, running and her favourite hobby, horse riding!We talk about everything that the Spine throws at you, from spectacular views, to destroyed feet and everything in between!This was a great chat and I'm really excited to see how she gets on next week!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to Tom Hoyle, AKA The Hiking Hairdresser on Instagram, to find out about the man who seems to be everywhere there's some Spine Race action to be had. From training weekends to the race media team, Tom is making a name for himself!We talk about his route into trail running, his career as a professional photographer and his latest project ULTRA IMPOSSIBLE - 'A raw insight into the unique individuals from within the running community.'We talk about what the project means to him and what he wants it to achieve. We talk about his own struggle with self confidence and how running and his photography have helped him personally.Obviously we talk about our mutual favourite race, the Spine, how we met on the race and what his plans are for the media team this year.For more information you can contact Tom through either his Hiking Hairdresser or Ultra Impossible pages on Instagram.URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to returning guest Emma Stuart, AKA The Running Vet!We talk about her recent win at Centurion Winter Downs 200 and the aftermath of her spectacular performance where she not only led the entire race, but finished with an injury and still took first lady and second overall!We talk about her recovery, what she's been eating and the surprises she's had since finishing, including an unscheduled visit to the dentist this week. We talk about how she turned a DNF at UTMB into motivation to have a crack at the WD200 course.We talk about how the race compares to other big ultras and the conditions that she encountered during her recce weekend and the race itself.We dive into her fuelling and sleep strategies and how she would approach the race if she goes back next year.URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode I speak to Rebecca Devereux about her journey to this years winter Spine Sprint, the first 46 miles of the Pennine Way.Rebecca is a member of the ever growing community and charity, Black Trail Runners. A group seeking to increase the inclusion, participation and representation of people of Black ethnicity in trail running.We talk about her path into ultra trail running, her training and racing leading up to this years race and how she is slowly coming to terms with the epic challenge that she's set herself, taking on Britain's most brutal race!We discuss the support that Adidas Terrex has given her through their Infinite Trails Race and how she represented BTR through it.We also discuss the issues faced by people of colour coming into a sport, that until now has been known for its participation by mostly white, middle-aged men!Rebecca talks about her own insecurities when she first stood on a start line and looked around to see nobody that looked like her.Black Trail Runners -BTR endeavour to change the previous demographic of a mainly white dominated sport and show that trail and ultra are a sport that is open to everyone.To find out more please follow the links below ⬇️ Insta @rebecca_runs_wildBlack Trail runners @blacktrailrunners Coach :  @kotwf Black to the Trails Sunday 11th May 2025 https://www.blacktothetrails.co.ukA mention and thanks to @adidasterrex for their support and  @lakes.divide and their journey fund.  I'm also an Ambassador for @torqfitness as well. @infinitetrailsraceHere is the link to the film we made about our Infinite Trails journey with BTR https://youtu.be/8aMVuVduGOo?si=tNCiRHpfVDkzxL4KURS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode of the podcast I speak to returning guest Gavin Dale.Last week Gavin made a successful attempt to lower the BGR record down to 14 hours 57 minutes and 45 seconds! In this chat we talk about what he's been up to in the last year since we spoke and how this attempt at the record came to fruition.Gavin speaks about the history and traditions that surround the classic Lakes round and how the weather that was predicted didn't materialise, but in fact added some credibility to an already tough day out.We talk about the support crew that he assembled, at the last minute in some cases and Gavin talks about the work that goes into such an epic performance!URS

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️In this episode of the podcast I speak to US trail and ultra podcasting legend Finn Melanson from the Singletrack podcast.Finn has rapidly build a podcast in the USA that is the 'who's who' of trail and ultra.Singletrack is noted for being on the cutting edge of ultra running news with race previews, commentary and keeping everyone up to date with what's going on right now in our beloved sport.We dive into his humble beginnings as a podcaster, the mission statement of Sigletrack and where he sees his media empire in the future.We talk about big money coming into our sport, the controversies surrounding UTMB and what the future looks like for professional trail and ultra running.We also talk about his own personal running schedule for 2025, which includes Trans Gran Canaria, Coccodona and the possibility of working towards the Spine Race in 2026! Obviously music to my ears!If you're not already listening to the Singletrack Podcast then I suggest you go and subscribe immediately!URS

Send us a textIn this episode we welcome back returning guest Mel Sykes.@mellywellywoo We last spoke when she won The Spine Challenger South in the summer of 2023, so we had some catching up to do!Mel was on a trajectory for success the last time we spoke, but something got in the way of her lofty plans, chiari malformation! (The medical term) So after brain surgery and recovery, her racing career was in question. But thankfully for Mel she has been able to return to running, but not just that, she is back racing and took second place at this summers challenger south race in preparation for her next big outing.......The full Winter Spine Race in January 2025!We talk about the challenges she's faced over her recovery, her return to running and her plans for January's race. Mel talks at length about the women's Spine recce weekend that saw a large group of talented female runners take on some of the north section of the infamous winter race.With so many experienced women out there, this years race is going to be dynamite!

Send us a textIn this episode of the podcast I speak to Paul Booth, sports nutritionist.Paul has carved out a career working with elite ultramarathon runners at his testing facility at Leeds Beckett university and specialises in high carb fuelling and performance.In this episode we talk about the newest trend to sweep ultramarathon running, ingesting 140-150g of carbohydrates per hour, a vast increase from the previously recommended maximum of 90g per hour.We talk about the possible pros and cons of this new approach and whether athletes like David Roche are outliers, or are in fact at the tip of the spear of this revolutionary new approach to in-race fuelling.Paul also talks about his ongoing research and upcoming ultramarathon nutrition conference next year. For details of how you can get involved with Pauls studies on ultramarathon runners and his upcoming ultramarathon conference, contact Paul directly at Leeds Beckett University  - p.booth@leedsbeckett.ac.ukAlternatively, see Pauls website for more details on the above and his nutrition plans for runners.https://performancegainsnutrition.comURS

Send us a textIn this episode I speak to returning guest Charlotte Fisher.The last time we spoke, Charlotte had just won the  @centurionrunning North Downs Way 100.But after a disappointing year of injuries and race cancellations, she decided that she needed to turn the negatives into a positive. She did this by planning and executing a new women's FKT record on the IOW coastal path!She did this in 11 hours and 48 minutes, knocking nearly 2 and a half hours off the previous women's record!We also talk about her recent award from the police for helping to talk down a man who was attempting to end his life by throwing himself off the cliffs on her regular running route! This prompted a conversation about coincidence and being in the right place at the right time.She may have been disappointed with her races in the past year, but she is deservedly proud of the kind act that her changed circumstances allowed her to do!A great chat as always!URS

Send us a textSam and Robin round up the recent events in the world of Ultra trail running from around the world!We talk about the recent controversy surrounding UTMB Mallorca, with the last minute cancellation of the 100 mile race and subsequent fallout from not offering refunds or clear communication.We hear from Charlotte Fisher who spent 5 months preparing for this race. She tells us how disappointed she is with the race organisers.We also talk about Matt Choi and his lifetime ban from all road races after he was disqualified from the New York City marathon for having a film crew follow him on E-bikes!Lastly I talk about how pleased I am with myself after Rich Roll responded to my Instagram, Jamil Courey followed me back and Bymaximise used my footage from the Jasmin Paris - Home Trails episode to make a short film about The Barclay Marathons!More news as it happens folks......URS

Send us a textOn the podcast this week I talk to Cameron Wright, digital communications lead at Beyond The Ultimate and The Spine Race.As an outdoor photographer and videographer, Cameron talks about his experiences covering the Global Race Series for BTU around the world and the obvious challenges that it presents. From sideways rain in Scotland, to sand dunes as big as houses in 45 degree heat, he gets to see it all!In this interview we talk about Camerons route into his new role, through his background in outdoor and sports photography. Cameron has built up a vast amount of experience through his own freelance photography and videography business and has now taken on his biggest project to date, overseeing the media juggernaut that is the winter Spine Race in January 2025.We talk about the race and what it means to the running community. From the dot watchers at home, to the hardworking teams on the ground that make the race a reality.Cameron has big plans for the media team this year and I can't wait to see the coverage take more leaps forward as I'm sure it will!URS

Send us a textIn this episode I speak to returning guest Greg Vollet, creator of the GTWS.We talk about the highlights from the 2024 series, that controversial pass at Mammoth Trail Fest and the future of the series in 2025.Greg defends criticism of the series 'flower petal' design for courses that allows maximum spectator access and media coverage. He goes on to talk about the potential for the format being used at the upcoming Olympics in LA. As always its great to speak to Greg and hear about the growth of the sport and what the future holds for trail running.URS

Send us a textIn this episode I speak to Robin about the recent backyard ultra championships.But firstly we talk about his instagram page "The Running Accountant"where Robin breaks down the past week in ultra running and explains this crazy sport that we love, for newbies and the ultra curious.'Robins Running Roundup!' breaks down races and events and explains how they work to your average Joe. Robin aims to get more people into trail running and this is one of the avenues he uses.The other way is to organise trail runs in the Peak District through Highpeak Runners where he aims to fill the gap between couch to 5k and trail running.So who better to come onto the podcast to talk about the recent Backyard Ultra National Championships!Robin breaks down the weird and wonderful world of backyard and speaks about who did well, what the challenges are and what to expect from our own British backyarders next year at the world championships!Something tells me that Robin might become a regular feature on the pod so keep your eyes peeled for more of Robins Running Roundup!links to his socials below@highpeak.runners@the.running.accountantURS

Send us a textIn a break from our usual programming......I speak to Amy Hart.Amy is, in her own words, 'just a normal runner' which is true, but aren't we all? Even us ultra runners are just normal runners! Well, between snacks and sit downs when we're actually running......In this interview we talk about Amy's life growing up in foster care, her struggles with moving schools frequently and feeling like she would end up uneducated, jobless or even in prison!But Amy didn't let herself become just another statistic, she threw herself into university and came away with a degree.Throughout the years Amy has used running to destress, see new places and most importantly to keep her mental health in check. She now believes so strongly about running as therapy that she is running London Landmarks  half marathon for the mental health charity Still I Run and is team captain for Just Strong.Still I Run are a charity dedicated to promoting the benefits of running for mental health, which is a subject close to not only Amy's heart, but mine as well.We talk candidly about our own struggles with mental health and how running has helped us cope with what life throws at us!links to Amy's fundraising are below.https://www.justgiving.com/page/amyhealthharthttps://www.realbuzz.com/just-strong-london-landmarks-half-marathonURS

Send us a textOn this weeks episode I speak to former SAS: Who Dares Wins contestant and now author, James Gwinnett.James has had a colourful past to say the least!After a serious neck injury ended his rugby career, he fell into a deep depression that turned into alcoholism. But after seeing the London marathon on TV, he decided enough was enough and sought professional help.AA and running helped him quit his drinking and set him up with his new passion of running. The London marathon was just the beginning and he quickly found himself signing top for some big ultras! including the 145 mile Kent and Avon canal race. (where he came a very respectable 2nd place)This is where he met our mutual friend Matt Fynn and struck up a conversation about their shared troubled past.James realised that in capturing the stories of others that have overcome great odds to achieve something in life, he was building up conversations that could help others navigate similar struggles.This is how the book was born!Ready Set Life is a collection of his own stories of struggle and change, but also that of many others. From former special forces, doctors, ultra runners, a former heroin addict, polar explorer and an England rugby captain....to name just a few.The book is in his own words, a cynical look at society and although it deals with some serious subject matter, it is equally as funny as it is serious!Go buy the book on Amazon. https://amzn.eu/d/4mz2kfoURS

Send us a textIn this episode I speak to Sarah Perry.Sarah by her own admission is a reluctant podcast guest, but after months of me asking, she finally relented! I'm so glad she did because we had a great chat about a number of subjects.We did the obligatory "superhero question" to find out how she got into running. We talk about her successful FKT of the South West Coast Path earlier in the year and we obviously talk about her record setting win at 13 valleys over the weekend.We also dive int a subject that came up after a post she made on the morning of our interview. At the startline of 13v she was subjected to a comment about her weight. This sparked a conversation about body shaming in our sport.Listen to the interview to hear how she felt about it.URS 

Send us a textIn this episode I speak to returning guest Kim Collison.Last month, Kim won the Swiss Peaks Trail 360km 85,000ft mountain race.In this interview Kim talks about overcoming past DNF's in long ultras to finally put together the performance he knew he had in him.Kim talks about how significant this race is in his build to the Spine race in January 2025. With this successful race in place, Kim plans to hit 'Britains Most Brutal' race with everything he's got. With 3 unsuccessful attempts now behind him, he is laser focused on getting the result that we all agree he deserves.To be honest, I even told him in the interview that he was giving away too much of his plans to his competition. He just shrugged his shoulders and more or less said 'what will be, will be'.This years race is shaping up to be an interesting one!URS

Send us a textI speak to Kate Allen from RUNULTRA about the Camille Herron controversy.We talk about what allegedly happened and what the media has to say about it all. We discuss 'trial by social media' and the effect not just on Camille herself, but also how it affects our beloved sport of ultra running.This isn't an episode of hate towards Camille, just a conversation about what actually happened and what could happen in consequence.URS

Send us a textIn this episode we welcome back Will Roberts.Normally we speak to Will about all things  @SpineRace but this time we did a deep dive into his professional career as a photographer in some of the worlds most extreme environments.We talk about his career in media, his passion for travel and how he essentially blagged his way into his first media job for  @BeyondTheUltimateRaces  Obviously we do speak about the Spine Race because we both feel so passionately about Britains most brutal race!URS