In this episode I speak with Centurion Race director, James Elson.

James returns to the podcast to talk about his one time only race, Sea 2 Sea. A last minute replacement for the defaulted Northern Traverse by Ourea Events.

If you've been following the ongoing discussions about the demise of one of the UKs biggest names in race organisation, you'll be fully aware of the fact that 2 phoenix's rose from the ashes. One being the Community Traverse and the other being the standalone race organised by Centurion.

James talks about getting the race in place at short notice. The logistics of such an undertaking and how it went from an organisers point of view. We also talk about his personal experience doing the Sea 2 Sea himself in his own self supported style (other than a bit of help towards the end from Allie Bailey with a few gels and a sausage roll!)

James confirms that Centurion will not be putting the S2S on again next year and he still confidently believes that someone will buy the NT and the other races and bring them back under new management. Good news for all hopefully!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Charlotte returns as guest/host? were not even sure at this point because she's been on the pod so regularly!

Chalotte returns to give us the low down on her well earned 12th place at Chianti. After doing a pivot from Tenerife Bluetrail that was cancelled due to bad weather, to this race. Charlotte was initially disappointed with placing outside of the top 10.

But on reflection, she now happy to have put down a solid race against some of the worlds best trail runners!

We talk about her career that we've watched first hand grow from essentially an unknown, to someone with enough clout to be personally invited to a major UTMB race. 

Always good to catch up with the rising star that she is!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to Kitty-Leigh Oxley about the Community Traverse!

In the wake of the collapse of Ourea Events, Kitty decided that all that training and money spent getting to the start line of The Northern Traverse couldn't go to waste! Surely there were others in the same situation? The seed of an ideas was born and now we have the Community Traverse!

Support for this event has grown rapidly since its inception and continues to grow. What started as an idea to just do the coast to coast route anyway, has now turned into a full time project for Kitty. 

In this episode we discuss the logistics of gathering together a group of runners, volunteers and various supporting organisations to make this idea reality.

The theme that ran through the whole of this discussion was one of hope and community spirit. The fact that this can come together so quickly really highlights that the British trail running community is as string as ever and despite divisive events happening in our sport, we can come together to make good things happen!

If you want to run with the CT then below are the details on how they're logistically making it work. if you want to volunteer your time or resources to help them DM the Community Traverse on instagram.

Re: support options as they stand.

Each CP will vary slightly depending on the facilities we have access to.  

At the moment we’re working on securing better locations in Kirkby Stephen & Richmond. 

As a minimum, CPs will have gala tents, camping chairs and a gas hob. 

There will be plenty of tea, sandwiches, snacks, treats, and gels. 

There will be hot food options wherever possible. 

Exact locations for support points will be shared very soon and a GPX file for our route will also include all our support locations.

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast we speak to Dan Holder.

Dan completed this years Arctic Spine race, a non-stop 293 mile winter ultramarathon along the Kungsleden Trail in Arctic Sweden.

Dan had to contend with -40 degree temps, 40mph winds, pulling a pulk with all of his survival gear including a tent to sleep in along the way. If you think that the Winter Spine Race along the Pennine Way is difficult...then wait until you hear what Dan had to put up with!

From northern lights, moose and hallucinations...to cold so intense you have to do everything with gloves on.....and I mean EVERYTHING!

Dan tells the pod about his former career in the Marines and how his experiences set him up perfectly for the Arctic challenge. Dan has a serious back story that's led him to where his is now, making a difference to people with Atomic Rambo Coaching, his coaching business designed to help trauma victims and positive mindset coaching for business professionals.

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On the podcast this week we have Jon and Henriette Albon!

The power couple for 2026? It seems so! They both decidedly won their respective races at TGC, with Jon battling friend of the show - Josh Wade to a hard fought win. Whilst Henriette won her race by over 90 minutes! 

In this episode we dive into what the 'Norwegian Method' really is. We talk about their respective Superhero origin stories and how they came to be the couple that we know today. We talk about their coaching philosophy and why everyone from Norway seems to be smashing ultra trail races!

We also talk in detail about the couples coaching app, Ascendtrail.app and how it worked for them both in prep for this race and how it can work for us mere mortals!

This was a super informative interview and I hope you will get as much out of it as I did!

Now go download the coaching app!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

ULTRA NEWS!

This week we had the sad news that Ourea Events had ceased trading. OE host some of the UK's most beloved ultramarathons including; The Northern Traverse, encompassing the Lakes Traverse, Dales Traverse and the Moors Traverse. The Dragon's Back Race, Cape Wrath and Skyline Scotland.

This news came as a shock to many of us that have been involved with any of the races they put on. Shane Ohly broke the news in a heartfelt statement just yesterday, which received an outpouring of sympathy for Shane and the business. This was followed by concern over lost race entry fees and non functional insurance. 

In this podcast, myself, Dave Johnson from TrailSkin, Ben Wells and Kingsley Isaac discuss what happened and try to make sense of the situation. Will OE restructure and bring back the races next year? Or will a big trail running conglomeration like UTMB or Rat Race buy up the rights to the iconic races?

We end the podcast on a lighter note with a poor audio quality version of Kingsleys new song about UTS and Ourea! 

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the Home Trails Podcast we talk to our resident coach, Warren Wrenkel.....Wozza!

Subjects on the docket this episode:

* The Norwegian Method for training (includes an example for you to try)

* VO2max - Is it important or not?

* New studies on injuries related to training volume

* Physiology vs zone training 

*  Nutrition - keto/low carb vs high carb for training or longevity 

Lots to unpack in this episode and hopefully something for everyone. This style of episode will be a fixed feature going forward, so if you have a training question for Wozza then send it in on the HT WhatsApp community or DM to either of us on social media.

Happy training 

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the Home Trails Podcast, I'm joined by by James Nobles and Martin from Kelp&Fern to discuss UTS by UTMB.

James has been very vocal in his criticism of UTS changing the iconic Snowdonia route last minute, especially after selling further places in the race.

UTS has come under heavy fire from some prominent names in the trail and ultra running community. But is this just a genuine landowner/route issue that couldn't have been avoided? Or is it another example of the giant corporate machine steamrollering trail runners and using another race as a licence to print money, without giving runners what they signed up for?

James represents the angry pro runners and Martin shares his local route knowledge and years of experience in fell, trail and ultra running media.

Should the trail running community start to boycott UTMB races? 

Have a listen to find out!

* UTS were contacted and given the opportunity to join the conversation. No response as yet......

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

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Louise returns to the Home Trails podcast for her second appearance. 

The first was as part of a short format Spine Race preview episode, so we didn't dive too much into her life story. In this episode we go right back to her early days, especially her wild days back at uni in Manchester, when she was fully immersed in the early 90's rave scene. 

She talks about going to the legendary Hacienda club in Manchester, how she help Madonna to shimmy over a wall to escape the venue and how she raved until the sun came up at every opportunity.

Louise now channels her addictive personality into endurance sports. Where she's competed at road races, masters marathon, won silver medal at duathlon and more recently has dominated ultramarathons, including our favourite race, the Spine.

Louise is also a coach, so we talk about her coaching methods to prepare for ultras, including some very specific work in tough conditions!

Louise is a real character and was a pleasure to interview!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Hayley Wilson - Podcast listener and Home Trails WhatsApp group member, joins me for a run down of whats been happening in the sport over the weekend!

We chat about the results from the 2 separate golden ticket races that were held over the weekend - Black Canyons 100/50k held in the USA and Tarawera 100k held simultaneously down under in New Zealand. Multiple golden tickets were up for grabs in each of the races, so we chat about who won what.

Obviously we talk about the shock news that Barkely Marathons were held the earliest in the year yet! With 22 names....named we only had one runner complete a "fun run" of 3 loops and 4 others complete 2 loops. Laz is back up his old trick of making the race impossible to finish it seems!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Anna Troup joins the Home Trails Podcast to talk all things Spine Race!

Anna has a long history with the race and this year saw her win the women's race in 109 hours, in some epic weather conditions. Anna talks about her preparations (or lack of) going into this race. Off the back of winning the summer edition of the race, Anna yet again had to deal with reoccurring issues with stress fractures that almost put her out of the race.

We dive into the ongoing issue of injury and how she has kept her huge endurance  base that she's built over 40 years in sport! How doctors told her not to race and how she came to the start line in January with one goal......finishing the race.

We talk about her drive to encourage more women to sign up to the race and the small community on WhatsApp that's now grown to include over 300 members! We talk about the changes to the race and how it's perceived to affect women signing up going forward and her plans to continue building the women's support group.

Anna was a pleasure to interview and I'm sure she will be back again for more episodes in the future!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I'm joined by Kris Jones!

Kris recently won the Arc of Attrition by UTMB 50 and he shares his experience at this years mud-fest!

This is Kris's first appearance on the Home Trails Podcast, so we obviously start with the obligatory Superhero Question. Kris comes from a background that combines world class orienteering with world class track and road running. Which clearly is the perfect combination, because he seems to win and set course records at every trail and ultra race he enters!

Kris talks in depth about his approach to training which prioritises fitness first, before moving into specific race phases. Something I will take home is his point about fitness trumping all other factors. He believes that if he's half marathon fit, then he's ready for most races, longer or shorter!

So time to dust off those road shoes and get the intervals and tempo runs flowing again!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Sarah Page is officially here! 

With her recent 1st place and 3rd overall at Challenger  South, Sarah has firmly put her stamp on the Winter race on just her first attempt at Britain's Most Brutal!

She finished the race in 29 hours and 3 minutes, to put her on the overall podium in 3rd and take the win in the women's race. Unfortunately due to the bad weather diversions, this time doesn't count as a new course record. But we all know what this performance means for her credibility as a top level runner.

Sarah is a very humble and down to earth runner, who at times IMO doesn't seem to understand just how good she is! Something I back up with the fact that she beat the now legendary 'other Sarah' - Perry, by over 2 and a half hours!.....which is no small accomplishment!

We talk about her route into ultra-running through road marathons by means of the now infamous 'Superhero Question'  and we find out what she has lined up for the rest of the season. 

Get to know Sarah, because she is one to keep an eye on this year and in the years to come!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Podcast favourite - Charlotte Fisher returns for yet another episode!...by this point we've both lost count of how many times!

We chat about her experience at this years Arc by UTMB which delivered the aforementioned attrition in bucket fulls! With a DNF rate of over 60% this wasn't a race for the fainthearted. But Charlotte battled her way to a strong 2nd place.

We talk about her storming away from the pack, before a fall in wet conditions ultimately slowed her down. But this didn't stop her from keeping her place on the podium and securing a sub 24 hour coveted black belt buckle! Something that Charlotte has had her eyes on for a few years.

We also talk about the cough that she thought was going to get her pulled from the race on medical grounds towards the end of the race and how it seemed to be a small epidemic for those unfortunate to DNF the race.

As always, we end with a shoutout to HOKA to finally get the paperwork drawn up for her before she starts to look to other sponsors for that illusive contract!!!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Robin the Running Accountant joins Sam as the cohost on this one. Firstly to quiz him about his Spine Challenger South DNF story......warts n all! 

Then, we round up all the action from all of this year's Spine races, including an in depth conversation about Jon and Damo holding hands during the Sprint North. Just how bad the conditions were for everyone. The outstanding performances from all races and how Double Deckers don't qualify as race nutrition?

We also reveal the winners from all 9 categories of this years (last years) TURA Awards! There are lots of winners and notable mentions, so listen up as you might have been mentioned!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

I catch up with Cammy for a quick chat before this years races kick off.

We chat about changes to how the media team operate over the week of racing. How the weather is affecting the race and what's new from the media coverage.

Cam is obviously very busy manning the helm of the media team this year, since Will Roberts is absent for 2026. But we managed to have a chin wag about my favourite race none the less!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode we speak to returning guest Alice Kershaw!

Alice is no stranger to the podcast and no stranger to the Spine. Having been on the podium on 4 separate occasions. Including wins at the Sprint and Challenger South.

This time Alice is taking on the full winter Spine and for those of us in the know, she is tipped to do really well. She talks about her new approach to racing which includes the wise guidance from non other than Damian Hall himself!

Although Alice still approaches all of her races with her characteristic smile, she seems to be stepping up with her approach to this years race. She freely admits that she wanted to cover all bases in the lead up to Britain's Most Brutal race!

Listen/watch the full interview to hear Alice talk about this years race.

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast we talk to returning guest Jon Shield.

Jon talks about the year he's had since he was forced to drop out of Challenger North last winter with a calf injury. He talks about his successes and failures in between and how he now feels ready to put down a strong performance at the Sprint North race next week.

Obviously, Jon quite rightly called me out on my comment during my interview with Damo where I may or may not, have said that I favoured him for the win! 

We also talk about Jons addiction to White Monster Energy Drinks and how they could be a new sponsor for the podcast.......lol.

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Jack returns to the podcast to talk about Spine South this coming weekend.

Jack broke with his tradition of radio silence prior to big races, in favour of a more relaxed approach to media. Is this a new version of Jack? 

Possibly so it seems...... Jack previously stayed away from the media prior to the Spine to stay in his zone mentally. But now Jack is a bit older and a bit wiser its seems and has learned to switch off his mental game prior to races and only dip into it when its really needed.....like when he's racing the likes of Mark Darbyshire and Dan Weller up the Pennine Way to chase down the course record!

We dive into what he's been up to in the last year. How he's prepared slightly differently this time and what he expects to put down in the race if the conditions are favourable. 

We also talk about his coaching business and his big secret plans for this coming summer! 

Listen/watch the episode to find out more!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

James returns to the Home Trails podcast to talk about his historic double winter Bob Graham Round record!

Running a total of 132 miles, with 54,000 ft of ascent in 42 hours and 56 minutes! Going anticlockwise first, before switching to clockwise for the second round. This betters the previous time set by Caspian James, by nearly an hour.

In the podcast, we talk about his approach to training for, and completing a feat that has never been accomplished before. James is known for his winter rounds in harsh conditions and this double round was no different. The recent cold snap that James had been tracking leading up to the attempt, gave perfect winter running conditions underfoot.

We talk about his approach to kit, short rests and his support crew. We also look into his training, including a recent heat acclimation block that included running almost every day of his 3 week holiday in Thailand and coming home to continue the heat in sauna sessions designed by his coach Kim Collison.

What will James do next?

Watch/listen to the episode to find out!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

The Trail and Ultra Running Awards are back agin for 2025!

In this joint podcast....Ultrarunning Sam, Kate from RunUltra and Robin The Running Accountant discuss this years potential winners and who did what this year in 2025.

We've simplified the voting this year so there's no option to pick from a list, the choice is yours and the winner of each award is the one with the most votes....Simples.

So follow the link to vote and be in with a chance to win the ever growing prize bundle!

https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/57TKUX/

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

SPINE SEASON:

James returns to the Home Trails podcast for a third time. This time we talk about his return to the big one!

Having dropped out of the full winter race in 2024 with a foot injury, he returned to the race to run the Challenger South with his dad in the epic conditions we saw in January. 

This time, back to full health he's on the start line for the full deal again. In this episode we talk about his learnings from the year his foot stopped him, his training and tapering approach and how he is looking forward to finally getting to the finish at Kirk Yetholm and putting the race to bed!

James was on Damo's list of podium contenders for this years race and I fully agree with him. James is one to watch in January!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Spine Season continues!
Damo returns to the Home Trails Podcast. This time to talk about his recent Three Solo project that didn't go 💯 to plan....and his plans to return to it in 2026.
We dive into how he feels going into the Spine Sprint North race in January, a break from his norm of doing the full race. We talk about the level of FOMO he will be having come January 10th weekend and we talk about his hopes of bettering his time from the test run he did back in January when the race was trialling the new distance.

We talk about his predictions for each of the race distances and who he thinks will do well in each of them. Then finally we talk about the changes to the kit list and how he feels about them and the race moving forward.

Always a pleasure to have Damo back on the podcast!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode we meet Arthur Hill for the first time.

Arthur recently set a new winter BGR record in 14:54, taking 4 minutes off Gavin Dales record from last year! Arthur was helped during his legs by a host of Lake District royalty, including Kim Collison, Beth Pascal and of course Gavin Dale himself.

In our chat we talk about his route into fell running in his early 20's, his obsession with the Bob and his training leading up to this round. Arthur speaks about the close knit community of trail and fell runners that jumped at the chance to support him on his latest attempt. 

Arthur is one of the most enthusiastic young runners I've had the pleasure to speak to and it seems certain that this won't be his one and done for the Bob. He is even more obsessed with the round than ever and I'm sure he will be back chasing the summer record when the time is right!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Non SPINE episode!

In this episode I speak to Wozza the running coach.

Warren came on the podcast to talk about his amazing recovery from what doctors told him was the end of his running career. Warren defied the odds and made a full recovery, to the point that he started racing again and won the Ultra Trails Wales 50 mile ultramarathon.

But before we even got onto the subject of his injury, I quizzed him about his coaching style and some of the mistakes that ultra-runners make during training.

We talk about nutrition, strength work and why we shouldn't get carried away with the latest fads in ultra training.

For coaching inquiries, hit him up on instagram @wozza_running_coach

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

SPINE SEASON!

We continue Spine Season with the return of Lindley Chambers, the king of all things kit list related. 

Lindley comes on the podcast to discuss everyone's favourite subject...the kit list for the Winter Spine Race. In this episode we discuss the recent changes to the list, controversial items being added/removed and the reasons for it. We discuss the changes to navigation equipment, mapping and checkpoints. 

We also talk about some of the issues that keep coming up for first time Spiners and what the race and the course expect from them! We discuss how technology is starting to help with kit checks and how he still gets hundreds of emails asking the same old questions every day. But, as he freely admits, he wouldn't have it any other way. Lindley firmly believes that if you're asking kit questions, then you're thinking about the race seriously, and there's nothing he wants more for this year's competitors!

If you're doing any of this year's races then this is a must listen!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

SPINE SEASON!

In this episode I speak to Jamie Rutherford. Jamie is one of the original OG photographers on the race and has helped to build the storytelling style of the media team. 

In this episode we talk about his origins as a runner and as a photographer. We talk about his first ventures into race photography and how he was in the right place at the right time to earn his spot on the media team at the race.

We also talk about his recent decision to quit his job as a dentist to go all in on photography as a career! We hear about his trip to Asia and Europe to fulfil his dream of being a world photographer.

As always, Jamie will be back at the Spine in January so keep your eyes out for his iconic images!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Welcome to the Home Trails coverage of the 2026 Winter Spine Race!

We begin our lead up to this years race with a preview from a familiar face, John Kelly! John returns for the 4th time to Britain's most brutal race! He returns to better his race from last year when he was suffering with an attack of the sleep monsters on the first night of the race. John talks about this issue and his approach for this years race, which includes a home made 'altitude office' that simulates up to 14,000ft of altitude! Among other things obviously....

As well as talking all things Spine, we also talk about his attempt on the Appalachian Trail FKT earlier in the year. Coincidentally, the SFM film about this was also released this week. So go check that out on YouTube!

John talks candidly bout how the film is difficult to watch, but he also proudly looks back at the funds that he raised for local towns affected by the hurricane that swept through the area, causing so much devastation.

John as always seems laser focused and I can't wait to see what he does at this years race! 

 HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode we welcome Holly Stables to the podcast fir the first time!

Holly has had a long career, firstly in competitive marathon running, before she transitioned into trail and ultra. We ask the 'Superhero' question and find out where it all began and where she is now.

Holly talks about the evolution f her training and approaches to feeling and strength. We dive into some of the races that she's won and CR'd over the years. Finally, we talk about her recent epic 300+ mile race in California at The Speed Project. Where she ran solo from the beaches of LA, to Las Vegas Nevada!

We talk about the nitty gritty of the hot dusty race and how she pushed on to finish in 2nd place!

Holly was recently at the Kendal Mountain Festival showing her very own film documenting the epic journey! Watch via the links 

https://youtu.be/XFq9SgVKhTA?si=JfP6piRIJRC4aRbe

We could have talked for hours so I'm guessing that Holly will be back. Most likely after she's taken on Cocodona in the USA next year!

HT      

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast we speak to Dan Weller. 

Dan returns to the podcast after previously being on in 2024, when we talked about his wins at the Montane Spine Challenger South and the Pennine Barrier Ultra. 

This time Dan talks about his 2nd place finish at Centurion Wendover Woods 50 and his year of racing so far. We dive into his new approach to training under his coach Sarah Cameron and his plans for the rest of the year. 

But obviously we couldn’t let him go without a big old conversation about our beloved Spine Race. Dan will be toeing the line at Challenger South in January, alongside Mark Darbyshire and Jack Scott (to name just a few) in what is shaping up to be the most competitive edition of the 108 mile route to date. 

Dan is one to watch  👀 

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

At this point Charlotte is almost a cohost as she returns for her 5th appearance on the Home Trails Podcast!

We catch up on what she's been up to since we last spoke about Lakeland 100. We discuss her successful race to 3rd place at Mallorca and how it feels like she's making her mark on the international trail running scene.

As always, we talk about her training and prep going into the race. What went right and what went wrong...which includes a lack of carbs for the last 30+ KMs (but we won't talk about that for too long) 

Although this race didn't go exactly to plan, its agreed that its actually a great success. A performance that she can be proud of as she prepares for her next big event.... THE ARC!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

https://givestar.io/gs/project-74

The link to Sam's challenge is above ⬆️ 

In this episode I speak to Sam King @fatboysking on instagram

Sam is currently (at time of writing) 42 days into his challenge to run 74 ultramarathons in 74 days in honour of his mum, who suffered a bleed on the brain at aged 74.

We dive into Sams background as a runner. His previous life as a 19 stone gamer, turned corporate businessman and now his life as an ultra runner!

Sams challenge is finally gaining recognition and support and his fundraising has doubled overnight due to major media outlets picking ups on his story!

His story really is fascinating, so enjoy hearing it on rhetorical podcast. and obviously please donate to his cause!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to Hugh Tibbs, about his recent win at the Centurion Running Autumn 100.

Not only did Hugh win the race, he also broke the previous course record and set a new British 100 mile trail record!

As always, we find out Hughs superhero story, and and how he got Into running. We find out about his previous successes in trail running and how he prepared to run lightening fast at this years A100.

I think we will be seeing more of Hugh as he now takes on the Arc in January next year!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Gary speaks to Home Trails about all things ultra running.

We talk about his running origin story, his own running successes and how he went from hairdresser, to personal trainer to in-person coach, to instagram stardom.
We talk about his life in running media and the opportunities that running has presented to him with his newly acquired fame.

We chat about his thoughts on the trends in social media and coaching in 2025.

Watch and learn from the expert!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

HOME TRAILS returns for another podcast in residence!
This time we head to Keswick in the Lake District to bring you coverage of the Altra 13 Valleys Ultra.

We talk to the runners as they prepare to race the 13,7,5 and 2 valley races.
We speak to the male and female winners and find out what it takes to  complete the loops in the iconic landscape of the Lakes.

We have in depth interviews with the runners at the front of the races and we find out what it takes to stay on the mic with the race MC's Matt Ward and Beth Pascall.

If you were there and you were interviewed by Ultrarunning Sam, then dive in to the video because nobody was left out of the final cut!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Nutritionist Paul Booth returns for his 3rd appearance on the Home Trails podcast.

This time Paul talks about the nutrition plans he successfully made for this years UTMB winners, Tom Evans and Ruth Croft.
Paul goes into great detail about the pre-UTMB testing he did with Tom at the  Leeds Becket University testing lab. How he used those numbers to dial in the most specific race nutrition plan ever made for an elite ultra runner.

Paul talks about the race in detail and how his knowledge of Tom from testing allowed him to dial in carbohydrate numbers that matched the terrain and his given output for certain key points in the race.

This episode is packed with useful insights on carbs, bicarb, beta alanine, creatine and how to use them for specific workouts. 
So if you're a nutrition geek, then this episode is for you!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to Holly Wooten about her 2025 Dragon's Back win!

Holly not only won the women's race by over 10 hours, setting a new CR in the process.....she was also 2nd overall to winner David Parish.
This was'nt just a coincidence, Holly was 💯 targeting the overall win for this years race, firmly believing that she could take the win and show that the Dragon shows no discrimination when it comes to being slayed! 

Holly talks openly about her training leading up to this years race and how tactics played a major part of her win last week in Wales.
Holly also speaks about her superhero origin story that includes many years of team sports and chasing a 5K and 10K PB on the roads.
She also speaks about taking a chance on herself to give running everything she's got. A chance that has certainly paid off it seems!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this week's episode we speak to returning guest and friend of the show, Josh Wade.

This is Josh's 3rd time on the podcast......to talk about his 3rd place at UTMB!
We've been championing Josh for some time now, so it's great to see him performing on the world's biggest stage. With his stellar performance, he is finally getting the credit and recognition that us Brits feel he deserves and is long over due!.

In this episodes we dive into his training and preparation, which included 4 weeks of isolation in the mountains of Tignes, actively ignoring the race ahead of him. He talks about his focus going into the race that left him chomping at the bit to race at the top level.

Josh talks about the crowd giving him energy to push on in dark places and how he felt on his final decent into Chamonix being chased by 4th place.
We talk about how his life is changing as he focuses on his running career, in what he's calling his 'now or never' moment.

As always, Josh is a pleasure to interview and gets more hilarious every time I speak to him!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the HOME TRAILS documentary series, I spend some time with Spine Race champion Lucy Gossage.

This episode was recorded a few months ago at the start of the summer and we reflect on Januarys race, that now seems like a lifetime ago.

As with all HT docs, we run with her on her local trails. The very trails and roads that Lucy used to great effect to train for the first place finish at Britain's most brutal race. We also sit down with Lucy at her home in Nottingham and talk openly about her life and charity work.
We talk about her training leading into the race and how it all went down during this years event.

Lucy also talks frankly about her relationship breakdown after her first attempt at the race in 2024. She speaks about how the events that took place shortly after that running, made her want to return to claim the Spine Race and all of those memories that she felt were now tainted by the betrayal she suffered.

Lucy went on to comfortably win the race, but how does she feel about it now? Will she return?
Watch to find out!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode I speak to Pip from Kailas Fuga about this years UTMB races.

WE talk about who's done well so far this week and who is set for glory at the still as yet, undecided races of CCC and UTMB finals. We talk about the races so far and how the changeable weather in the Chamonix valley has affected conditions for athletes, but also for the masses that have descended on the trail running capital of Europe!

PIp talks about the successes of some of the Kailas runners so far and how we all have high hopes for Tom Joly at this years UTMB

We also talk about the progress that Kailas have made with their boots on the ground presence in Chamonix. With the addition of their pop up shop just metres from the finish line, it's safe to say that everyone now knows about the Chinese trail running giants!

Finally.....we ask Pip what she has planned personally for racing this year and her hopes to perform well at her next race in China at some serious altitude! I'm sure we will be hearing more from Pippa and Kailas Fuga as time goes on.....

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode, Home Trails speaks to Colin Murphy, race director for the 13 Valleys ultramarathons happening at the end of September in the Lake District.

The race returns for its 3rd year and we dive into the fast becoming iconic lakes race. We find out the origins of the race. What challenges its faced in its inaugural years and the ethos behind the race that is part of the much larger Great North Race Series, that organises The Great North Run among other large events.

We also ask Colin the Superhero question to find out where he came from and why he's stuck at an 18 year career in events organising.

There's still places left in some of the races so head on over to the race website to sign up!

https://www.13valleysultra.com

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

* THE FULL VIDEO VERSION IS AVAILABLE ON THE HOME TRAILS YOUTUBE CHANNEL 

The podcast teamed up with Kailas Fuga and Robin - The Running Accountant to put on the first Kailas Fuga shoe and gear test!

We headed to Edale to meet up with Pippa Ebel and Chris Chan from the marketing department of the largest trail running brand in China! To put on the very first gear test in the UK.
Everyone who filled in the form and turned up on the night, got to test out the new EX330 shoes and the AIR8 packs.
Robin had picked a jaunt up Mam Tor and back as the ideal way to test the gear out.
Once the gang of social runners returned they stuffed their faces on local cakes and swigged local beer from Intrepid Brewery.

When things quietened down, we did a podcast interview with Pip and Kailas Fuga sponsored runner Dave Ryan, about all things brand and we dive into the minutia of the gear on test.

Im sure if you don't already know who Kailas are, then you will veery soon!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Damo returns to the Home Trails podcast.

Damian is probably the guest with the highest number of appearances on the podcast, but we're always happy to talk to him. Especially when he's smashing races like the Montane Lakeland 100!
Damo admits that his goal was to go under 20 hours regardless of his position. But we all know that his race went to plan and he took the victory. Something that his old self from back in 2014 who did the 50 miler, didn't think was possible.

We talk about what he's doing health wise to keep at the top of his game.
We talk about his new sponsor - NNormal and how they're changing the face of trail running for the better.
Finally, we talk about 'that race on the Pennine Way' and we hear about a possible showdown between him and his old nemesis - Jack Scott!

We also talk about his work with Intoultra, the charity that provides support to disadvantaged runners getting into our beloved sport. See the links below 👇 

https://intoultra.org.uk/

https://prelovedsports.org.uk/

https://kitsquad.co.uk/


Listen/watch to find out more!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Friend of the show Charlotte returns to talk about Lakeland 100.

Charlotte continues her cracking year by storming to a well deserved 2nd place and 10th overall In the classic Lake District event.

We catch up on how her race went and what the podium means for her chances of being picked up by a major sponsor! We talk about how she is leaving her influencer career behind her to concentrate on her running. How having a big social presence is helping her get noticed as an athlete and how she manages to leverage her status to get booked for shoots at fancy spa hotels! Which is always welcome after a big event like Lakeland.

We talk about the interest from HOKA and her upcoming shoot for the Mafate X on her Home Trails of The Isle of Wight, and I vent my frustrations about the fact that Charlotte hasn't yet been snapped up by the brand!

Charlotte is always a welcome guest and I'm sure she will get the support she truly deserves!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this weeks podcast I speak to PT and co-author of the legendary book “Fixing Your Feet” 

If you don’t know about this book, you either haven’t been in ultrarunning long enough or you haven’t done any of the races that need the knowledge that this book provides! 

If you’ve ever had issues with your feet in long events, then this book and now this podcast episode is essential reading/listening to prepare. Tonya talks about her route into physical therapy and ultramarathons and how the two worlds combined in her love of feet! No no, she really does love feet! She talks about how she uses her skills to help hundreds of runners at events across the US. Especially with her work at Michigan Bluff at WSER. I take this opportunity to ask Tonya as many questions as I can about this subject, in the hopes of gleaning as much useful information as I can for all of you listeners.

This episode can hopefully be an evergreen one that keeps providing valuable insights for years to come. So please share this with anyone who’s had to suffer to the finish line in any race, regardless of the distance. 

Get the book here ⬇️

https://amzn.eu/d/gORP96e

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Clorroe joins the podcast for the first time this week.
We talk about her route into ultra-running, her upbringing in the great outdoors and obviously we dive into her obsession with the Spine Race.

We discuss her journey into trail running photography and how she managed to earn her spot on the Spine media team.
Clorroe speaks about her experience as part of the Spine safety team and how her local knowledge of the Cheviots made her ideal for a shift at HUT 2, where she began her race photography career.

We also address the elephant in the room!
Why don't we see more female race photographers? Is it as simple as underrepresentation, or can the races themselves do more to encourage girls to take up the cameras and get involved!

Listen to find out what she thinks.

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Evan has literally burst onto the scene less than a year ago. But he's already won or podiumed at some of the UK's toughest ultras!

Coming a very respectable 6th place at Lakes In a Day, in his first ultra back in October 24, he's gone on to win the Bowland Ultra. He took 2nd at Pendle Way in Day and another 2nd place at the Fellsman in April.

His latest top 10 result at Trail Verbier St Bernard by UTMB has earned him recognition internationally as one to watch!
Evan may only be 19 years old, but he has mature head on his shoulders. He's recently taken on a coach to help direct his enthusiastic approach to training and racing. So keep your eyes on this ones progress!

Evan lives and trains in the Lakes and works at the legendary running shop, Pet Bland Sports, where he gets support from Mountain King Poles and is about to sign a contract with a major trail running brand!

Evan is going places and was a joy to interview. 
Watch this space!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Doug returns to talk about TrailCon and WSER.

Doug, along with Dylan Bowman and Brendan Madigan have got their respective heads together to bring the world TrailCon. A week long bridge between Broken Arrow Skyrace and Western States 100.

TrailCon is the trail running conference that we all need. By the people, for the people.

Doug talks about his favourite moments from both TC and WSER and speaks about the successes from this years event and learnings to take through to 2026.

We dive into the line up from this years event and how the speakers, talks and q&a sessions were received.

Doug also talks about some of his favourite funny moments from WSER, including facing up to a bear, Chris Myers snorkel and the epic activations from the brands in attendance.

We look forward to 2026!

HT

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Allie returns to the podcast to talk about her recent win at the Summer Spine Challenger North!

Allie took on the 160 mile ultra as part of her training towards the Full Winter Spine this coming January 2026. This is a race I know really well, having done it back in 2023. So we shared horror stories of destroyed feet, pasties and hallucinations!

We talk about her feelings of contentment as she ran the race of her dreams and had a performance that she considers a 'Unicorn'.....basically everything went to plan for a change!

We talk about the route, the food and the beloved Spine family who always do such a great job of looking after us on all of the races, summer or winter!

HT 

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode, JB Benna the creative force behind the now iconic film Unbreakable, speaks to the podcast about why the project to cover this years race (Unbreakable 2) isn't happening after all.

We discuss his early years racing ultramarathons with some of the OG goats of the 90' and 2000's. How his running intertwined with his love of movie making, that ultimately brought us the film we all know and love. A film about 4 ultra athletes, Killian, Jeff, Anton and Hal racing from Tahoe to Auburn in the Western States 100.

We talk about the multiple reasons that the sequel isn't happening this year. We talk about the original film and why it still stands the test of time today.

We talk about how he will ultimately approach filming Unbreakable 2 when the time is right. We talk about the changing scene of ultra running, film making and the advent of social media (for better or worse)

We also talk about his own life since making Unbreakable. We dive into the struggles that he had personally in recent years and how a spiritual awakening during a 100 mile ultra, reignited his own Catholic faith.

JB is a great guy and I know that when Unbreakable 2 comes out, it will be worth the wait!

links below to all things related to JB Benna and Unbreakable!

https://www.journeyfilm.com/buy/unbreakable-bonus-features-complete-digital-box-set/

https://catholicmagazines.org/magazine-archive/high-desert-catholic/ren0221

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

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

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

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. 

HT

See the link below to free resources from the ETT

https://www.elitetrailteam.com/ett-runclub

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the @hometrails_ podcast we speak to Mike McMonagle, aka @shitinthewoods

We 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

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

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

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.

URS

HOME TRAILS 

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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 overall

Rebecca 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 me

We 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 💯 she will continue to win bigger and bigger races!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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 

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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  

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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!

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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.com

Instagram - ultradicksy_coaching

Facebook - Focused Running

TikTok - focusedrunning_coaching

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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 Challenge
PB137 - Pennine Bridleway Challenge
Yorkshire 3 Peaks 
Peak District South and North (1 day or full weekend options)
PB55km Ultra
PB18km Ultra
High Peak 70/100 Ultra
High Peak 18km Trail
As well as the grand slam over the race season.....

Follow the below link to find out more 

rangerultras.co.uk

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Audio taken from the documentary on YouTube 

https://youtu.be/G0C8ACMuayE?si=TQisjHbHhj9Zu7Gw

Welcome 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:3

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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.fam

Web - trailfam.com

Email - danny@trailfam.com 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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=CL

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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!
💯 we will be speaking to Alice again in the future, possibly after she takes on the full winter race in the near future!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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 

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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_wild
Black Trail runners @blacktrailrunners 
Coach :  @kotwf 
Black to the Trails Sunday 11th May 2025 
https://www.blacktothetrails.co.uk

A mention and thanks to @adidasterrex for their support and  @lakes.divide and their journey fund.  
I'm also an Ambassador for @torqfitness as well. 

@infinitetrailsrace
Here is the link to the film we made about our Infinite Trails journey with BTR 

https://youtu.be/8aMVuVduGOo?si=tNCiRHpfVDkzxL4K

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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! 🧨 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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.uk
Alternatively, see Pauls website for more details on the above and his nutrition plans for runners.
https://performancegainsnutrition.com

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Sam 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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On 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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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.accountant

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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/amyhealthhart

https://www.realbuzz.com/just-strong-london-landmarks-half-marathon

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On 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/4mz2kfo

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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 

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

I 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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In 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

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to US ultra running legend Max King.

Max recently popped over from the USA to win the legendary Dragons Back Race. A 380KM stage race over 6 days traversing the length of Wales from Conwy in the north, to Cardiff in the south!

In this interview we chat about his experience of the iconic British stage race, that tests even the hardest ultra runners. We talk about his nonexistent recces of the course and how everyday was for him, fortunately a nice surprise.
We discuss his previous experience of UK trail running and how his love of the British fell running scene keeps him coming back for more!

Max is a great runner and it was an insightful interview that dealt with some of the minutiae of running in what has fast become a legendary race on the UK ultra scene.

As always, please like and subscribe to the channel and audio podcast.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Josh returns as a guest to the podcast with an outstanding performance at this years UTMB.

Josh ran himself into a final position of 11th, making him the highest placing Brit at this years race!

When you hear how his race started out, the more you realise what a great result he had on a day that could have ended as a DNF, like it did for so many others at this years race.

As always, we talk about his training leading into this years race. We talk about his reflections on the result and what he has lined up for the rest of the year.

Josh is a genuinely funny guy too, so its always a pleasure to talk to him.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

For the super nerds that wanted to hear the first edit before it was cut down for visual aesthetic reasons!

An extra 7 minutes of training talk that was removed from the video version after this version. So it's essentially the same but with some additional insights into his training and prep.
More conducive to listening in the podcast format.

The video can be found here 

https://youtu.be/qQcDPLj1YUY?si=rP_FCDy__4sPNvun

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I team up with Kate from RunUltra to speak with David.

We talk about his historic race at the Leadville 100 where he not only won his debut 100 miler, but actually broke Matt Carpenters 19 year old course record in the process! Dropping it from 15:42 to 15:26!

We talk about his training and preparation leading into this race. We discuss his specific approach involving numerous interventions designed to give David the edge on the long standing record. We discuss carbon shoes, carb intake, bicarb and tons more!

David is a very open guy and we talk about the issues he's had this year after his road accident and suffering from abuse online.

A great listen with lots of valuable insights!

URS 

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to returning guest Fiona Pascall.

We talk about #vanlife as Fiona is already in the Alps to finish her training whilst residing in her 4 wheeled home. We chat about her success at Mozart 100 and how British the weather was! 
We talk about her training leading up to this point and the injury post Mozart that hampered her plan.

Fiona is one determined Pascall and I'm sure she will live up to the family name and race well at UTMB Mont Blanc!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to returning guest Hugh.

Hugh's first appearance on the podcast was after his win at Dragons Back last year. This time we catch up with him as he prepares to race CCC at this years UTMB races.

We talk about what he's been up to since we last spoke, including joining the Elite Trail Team and training like a true professional!

Hugh now has his sights set on the 100K race in the Alps and plans to give it everything he's got!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this weeks episode I speak to British runners Keith Wigley and Tom Joly about their plans for UTMB at the end of the month.

We talk about their friendly rivalry and banter as they train together in Tignes ahead of the greatest trail running show on earth!

This is the first episode in a short series leading up to the race, so expect more UTMB related episodes coming soon!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast i speak to one of the founders of FREETRAIL the US trail and ultrarunning media empire.

Ryan makes up 1/3 of the Freetrail team along with Dylan Bowman and his wife Harmony.
In this chat we talk about Ryan's involvement in the growing business that produces podcasts, short form and long form media projects.

As a dedicated trail runner himself, we talk to Ryan about his recent running of WSER, which was an 8 year project for him. We talk about the highs and lows during that special race and how he's reflecting on it some weeks later.

We also talk about our mutual love of music and how we view it as importantly as we do our running!

This was a great chat and if i look or sound tired, its because i had to stay up until midnight to make our schedules match up for the recording!

Check out Freetrail.com

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to Sarah Woodley Williams about her new book for runners, How To Survive An Injury With Ben.

Sarah's book is a lighthearted look at how we as runners try to get navigate the doom of an injury. The book highlights the fact that we're all the same when it comes to having to hang up our runners for any length of time due to the dreaded injury.

We talk about her own running, representing South Wales at cross country, her ventures into ultramarathons and her own experience of being sidelined by injury.

The book contains some valuable insights and practical takeaways to help anyone who is in the unfortunate situation of dealing with time out from our favourite sport!

link to the book on Amazon below.
https://amzn.eu/d/07PJju1s

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak with Ajay Hanspal, who at the start of this month set a new DPB round in 52hrs 51mins 35secs. Covering a staggering 131.93 miles with 58,537ft of vertical!

This was over 4 hours quicker than the original record set by Nicky Spinks.

We talk about his route into running, which is an unusual one given that he used running to help his rehab from a serious traumatic brain injury when he was just 18 years old.

We talk about growing up in the sport of trail running, his journey to breaking that record and his involvement with the ever growing community of Green Runners.

Ajay is a super nice guy and a pleasure to interview!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

I this episode I speak to Rich Gill, also known as Rich Trails and Gillyphotography on socials. 

Rich is fast becoming a household name in trail running photography, having shot at UTS, UTMB, the Arc and numerous other events in the UK and Europe. 

Rich talks about his route into running and his ever growing photographic experience, having the privilege to shoot for major brands and PR companies involved in the trail running scene. 

Rich is a great guy and I’m sure we will be hearing from him in the future! 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

If you're a regular listener to the podcast you will know all about this documentary. If not, please head to the YouTube channel to watch it.

Obviously I couldn't let this golden content just be available in the video version only, so here's the audio version for anyone who wants to enjoy it while out and about.

Obviously some stuff is visual and ive not edited it into the traditional podcast format, so you'll have to imagine the sweeping visuals that go along with the music etc!

You can watch the video by following the below link.

https://youtu.be/kvGHARr8rBQ?si=cR5RyfMa12hbULuU

If you do head to YouTube then please like/share/comment/subscribe to help me push the series and book in more big names.

Thanks again for all the support.

URS  

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

I chat to Will Roberts from the Spine Race media team about his preparations and hopes for this years summer races. 

We talk about who we think will do well at what distance and who the dark horses might be.

I also announce the premiere of my long awaited documentary/interview with Jasmin Paris on Friday at 7pm on YouTube!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

This week I speak to the On Track Nutritionist.

We talk about her route into trail running from road and her time in New Zealand before moving to the UK. 
We talk about energy needs for ultramarathon training and racing. The mistakes we make and the ways we can improve our strategy in simple ways 

We also talk about the highly discussed subject of Spring Energy's Awesome Sauce, that turns out to be not that awesome after all!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this weeks episode I speak to Chris Andrade about his recent win at the Hardmoors 110.

This wasn’t just any old win for Chris who’s no stranger to the podium. This was his debut at the 100 mile distance and he well and truly won by almost 2 hours!

We talk about his journey into running, his previous career in dramatic theatre and university studies. We talk in depth about his race at Hardmoors and the non traditional training block that led into such a great performance.

Chris is the assistant manager at the Inov8 Bakewell store and is now a fully fledged member of the Inov8 athlete team!

It was a pleasure to talk to Chris and we can expect great things on the horizon for him with Inov8!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to a veteran of the events industry, who also happens to be an ultra runner himself.

Doug Emslie has been in the events game for over 30 years and now has a major financial investment in Racoon Media, who organise events like the National Running Show, the Outdoor Show and more recently, the US Running Show in Boston earlier this year.

Doug talks about his route into trail running, the events business and his new partnership with Broken Arrow SkyRace, Freetrail’s Dylan Bowman and Western States, to bring us TRAILCON.

This June 26th in Tahoe, the week between the two iconic races, the ensemble are launching “A taste of TrailCon” - a 4 hour introduction to the main event of TrailCon being held in June 2025.

The conference aims to bring together all the movers and shakers from the trail running industry, to discuss the direction that global trail running is taking.
The conference aims to eventually be a week long festival of running with panel discussions, brands, race directors and average joe runners all coming together to discuss topics close to the heart of all trail runners in 2024 and beyond.

Although this years event will be just a taste of what’s to come, the 2025 event will be a hot ticket in the lead up to WSER 2025. So have a listen to what’s in store for those fortunate enough to be there.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this weeks episode I speak to Daniel Weller.

Dan grew up in Ohio in the USA before moving to the UK and taking up trail running. Dan has been in the sport for many years, but has started to put down some epic performances at some of the UK’s biggest ultramarathons.
Having consistently finished on the podium at many races over the last year, he started this year by winning the winter Spine Challenger South in January. Most recently he won the GB Ultras Pennine Barrier 50 mile.

We talk about his approach to training and racing and why he won’t be jumping into the full Spine anytime soon!

Dan is a very down to earth guy and a pleasure to interview. I’m sure we will be seeing him back on a podium very soon!


URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast I speak to returning guest Jon Shield.

Jon is possibly the busiest man in UK ultra running right now. When he’s not racing and winning ultras all over the world, he’s coaching, putting on trail running camps, organising the new FENIX running team and he is currently in the process of setting up his own trail running brand! 

It’s no wonder he only gets 4 hours sleep a night!

We talk about his wins since we last spoke. His up and down training with injuries and how he’s got his eyes set on some big races this season. 

Jon was a pleasure to speak to as always.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast, I speak to Emma Stuart about her amazing results over the last year. 
After wins in the 2023 editions of the 100-mile Arc of Attrition, 100-mile Ultra-Trail Snowdonia, and third place in the 120km Lavaredo Ultra Trail, Emma moved up the distance further by entering Italy’s notoriously punishing 205-mile Tor des Géants, which she won 🥇 
After a great start to 2024 with a 3rd place at the highly competitive Trans Gran Canaria. She now has UTMB on her radar for the end of her summer race season. 

We talk about running in her homeland of Ireland and her new home in The Lake District. 

Emma is a very humble and funny person and it was a pleasure to speak to her. 

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to Christina Smith.

Christina is an Olympic bobsledding athlete residing in Canada, who now works for The Enhanced Games.

If you’re not familiar with the concept of the EG…….it’s set to be the Olympic Games for the next generation.

Imagine the Olympics, but without drug testing. Imagine having a team of scientists and doctors overseeing everything in the name of science and research.
Well you don’t have to imagine, because it’s coming!

This isn’t just an idea thought up in a bedroom, it’s backed by a number of wealthy investors and is set to be the ‘formula one’ of sport.

Rather than have strict regulations on athletes supplementing with performance enhancing substances. The EG has a science based approach.
They’re allowing athletes to use anything they want to aid them in recovery and performance. Whilst at the same time providing them with medical supervision and conducting research on them.

It sounds wild……and it is, but this conversation wasn’t so much about the prevalence of drug use in professional sport (which is around 44% apparently) but rather it highlights that in a world of testing, the enhanced games can be at the forefront of scientific research and help push athletes to new levels.

I know this will divide opinions on what is morally right, but hear them out. You might be surprised by some of the logic in what they are trying to do.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast I speak to Sophie Power.

Sophie shot to infamy in the 2018 UTMB race, when she was photographed breastfeeding at a checkpoint.
Due to the races then policy of not allowing race deferrals due to pregnancy, she found herself racing with a 3 month old baby.

When the image went viral around the world, Sophie realised that she now had an obligation to raise awareness of the failings of some race organisations with regard to female runners.

The deferral issue was just the tip of the iceberg and Sophie through her organisation SheRaces, has begun to make a real change in the sport of running for all women.
From providing female specific bathroom facilities, to changing wording and images on race websites to provide a more inclusive environment for women in racing.

Many races around the world are now coming to SheRaces to find out how they can encourage female participation in all types of running.

SheRaces now sets the standard for women in running. Go check out the website and socials!

URS

Home | SheRACES

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode we speak to Scott Jenkins.

Scott is the first Brit to complete the gruelling Triple Crown of 200’s in the USA.
Scott ran the Tahoe 200, Bigfoot 200 and finally the Moab 240 to take 5th place overall. This all happened within 10 weeks!

We chat about all of the 200’s he’s ran over the last few years. His adventures around the world and his plans for a certain UK race that shall remain nameless.

We talk about his preparation, execution and his favourite hallucination featuring his wife! (not a witch)

Scott is a great guy and pleasure to interview.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast I speak to Julian Ayres, Senior Lecturer at Wrexham University.

Jules takes his research seriously!
In an effort to improve his student’s resilience, he embarked on a mission into ultramarathon to find out how grit and resilience in physical activity can be applied to his students to help them improve outcomes in the workplace.

We talk about that race beginning with S, and lots about the Dragons back and other big ultras and how his experiences helped shape his program for his students.

Jules is a clever guy and it’s great to hear about his experiences helping others to improve their own resilience.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast I speak to UK ultra-running legend, and now bestselling author, Allie Bailey.

Allie has risen to fame over the years with her no nonsense approach to running and life.
She races brutal ultramarathons and has a reputation for her brutal honesty about pretty much everything!

Allie is a recovering alcoholic and she has written a book about her life as an addict.
In this podcast we talk about her love of running really really long races all over the world. Her former career in music and her battle with depression and alcohol.

We talk about all things related and at times the conversation went deep on both sides.
One thing we did agree on, is that RUNNING WONT SAVE YOU!

Read her new book that’s out in print and on audible.
‘There is no wall’

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On the latest episode of the podcast I speak to ultra-running royalty Nicky Spinks.

We chat about our shared experiences of this years race and how it went for her.
We talk about her sleep strategy, fuelling and kit that she used.

We also discuss hallucinations, the epic weather on course and wether or not she will return to Britains most brutal race.

I’m really pleased to have had this conversation with Nicky as she’s been on my list of people that I’ve wanted to interview since the podcast launched.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

I relive the highs and lows of taking on Britain’s most brutal race. 

We talk about my path leading me to this years race over many years of prep. We talk about the sleep deprivation, food and the weather that was particularly Spiney! We also talk about that infamous fall that almost ended my race prematurely. 

Great to chat to Kate as always. 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Welcome to the last episode in the special pre-race Spine 2024 series!
We end with last years 2nd place woman, Hannah Rickman.

We talk about her year of globe trotting l, splitting her time between Malawi in Africa and good old Blighty.
We discuss training, sleep strategy, mental preparation and most importantly FOOD!

It was great to catch up with Hannah and I can’t wait to see what she can do at this years race.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the Special pre-Spine race 2024 series, I speak to reigning Spine champion Damian Hall.

We chat about last years race, his training for this year and I probe him on wether he feels any pressure returning to the race that he has invested so many years in.

Damo reveals his tradition of watching an inspiring film the night before the race, in an effort to rev himself up for glory!

A great chat as always with Spine royalty!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In the next instalment of the pre-race interviews I speak to Kim Collison about his prep for this year’s race.

We talk about his experience at last years race and his hopes for this year. Notably, Kim has got to the bottom of his muscular issues and with a change of medication, hopes that he can be foreign on all cylinders come January 14th!

We talk about his training, mental preparation and his racing strategy.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this next episode of the pre-Spine race 2024 podcast series, I speak to Elaine Bisson. 
We talk about the injury that led to her DNF at last years race, how she feels about returning to The Spine and how she felt about having to cut her race short. 

We talk about her success at the Cape Wrath Ultra back in May and how it’s helped prepare her for the upcoming race. 
We talk about training, nutrition and her race strategy. 

We also talk about her love of art as her other passion.  To see her art and read her blog, head over to https://www.elainebisson.co.uk/gallery-shop 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the special pre-Spine race series I speak to the race media team.

Regular listeners will know that I’ve been involved with the race for the last couple of years as a volunteer and last year had the privilege to work on the media team.
So in this episode I catch up with the media pals to discuss the upcoming race, their predictions for the runners and how they are going to approach covering Britain’s most brutal race!

We also get some insights into Jenny’s recent race success at the Beyond The Ultimate Desert Ultra, where she explained that it is not too dissimilar to racing Citroen 2CV’s!

A short but great catch up with the team that constantly bang out the quality content that we all get to enjoy come January.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this next episode of the pre-Spine race 2024 podcast series, I speak to James Nobles.

James is a returning guest on the podcast so we dive straight into the good stuff.
We talk about his recent 2nd place at the Cheviot Goat and how it has set him up for success at the fast approaching Spine Race in January.

We talk about his approach to training, nutrition and racing strategy as he contemplates lining up with some of the best ultra distance athletes assembled on the race.

James is a super humble guy and I have a feeling he will do well at Britain’s most brutal race!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this next episode of the pre-Spine race podcast series I speak to Simon Roberts.

Fresh from his recent win at the Montane Cheviot Goat, we talk about his journey into ultra, his experience of previous Spine races and of course his win at the Goat.
He talks about his love of the Dragons Back race and his passion for the shorter faster fell races local to him in Wales.

With the Spine now only weeks away, we talk about his choice of gear, nutrition and his relaxed approach to racing tactics.

Simon is a great guy and a pleasure to interview!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

It’s that time of year again. Spine Race season!
From now until the end of the year we will be releasing special Spine race episodes.
We will hear from the team behind the scenes from the organisation, from the media team and from the runners themselves.
We will deliver the big names hoping to do well again and also throw in some wildcard entries to keep your eyes fixed on the dots.

First up we have Lindley Chambers, who is responsible for finalising the route and overseeing everything kit related. If you’ve had any involvement with the race personally then Lindley’s name will be familiar to you.
He may strike fear into the hearts of many, but deep down he is just a passionate runner who shoulders the heavy responsibility of making sure nobody gets hurt or lost on Britain’s most brutal race!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast I speak to James Elson.

James is well known for his exploits as a long course ultrarunner who’s completed some of the toughest and most prestigious races around the globe.
He’s also the race director and head honcho at Centurion Running, who put on some of the best 50-100 mile ultramarathons in the UK.
We talk about his own running career competing at The Spine Race, Tour De Geants and Western States.
We also dive into the new World Trail Majors series that Centurions very own South Downs Way race is now part of.
James also give us his perspective on the whole UTMB saga as it rumbles on in the trail running community and his thoughts on the direction that our sport will go in.

Super nice guy and was a pleasure to interview him.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this special episode of the podcast I get the exclusive first interview with the IRONMAN UTMB group about the recent events with Gary Robbins WAM races and UTMB’s new Whistler Ultra Trail race.
I recently posted on social media that I was worried that we weren’t really hearing directly from them about what happened and their own perspective on what went down.
I got the chance to virtually sit down with Paul Huddle - Senior director of global trail running and Keats Mcgonigal - Vice president of North American operations and ask them all the awkward questions that we in the trail running community have been wanting to ask them!

Did they push out WAM intentionally? Or was it just a right place at the right time scenario?

Did they regret their decision to host the race on that same weekend in September?
How do they feel about the outpouring of anger towards Ironman for the announcement?

And most importantly, how do they, and how do we, all move on from all of this to get back to the sport that we all love. Trail running in beautiful places!

It was an eye opening interview for myself and I feel a lot more informed about what went down in Whistler.

But don’t just take my word for it. Have a listen and see if you feel any different.
Also please share the link for this episode everywhere you can on socials, so that more people get to hear both sides of this story!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast myself and Ben Wells Runs Fells speak to Kate Allen from the RunUltra website.

Last week I wrote an article for the website discussing the current controversy surrounding the UTMB/Iron Man situation in Whistler.

We have an unbiased conversation about who could be to blame (if anyone even is) and how the trail running community around the world have reacted to the announcement of their new race in British Columbia.

We talk about the ethics of the decision to put the race on the same weekend that Gary Robbins and his Coast mountain trail running  normally have their own WAM races.
We chat about if it’s intentional, or just bad timing. Have a listen and decide for yourself.

Kate also tells about the new inov8 store that’s opened up in Bakewell, serving the needs of trail runners in the Peak District.
We also have the usual catch up about injury and the Spine race, so for those of you who play, get your Spine Bingo cards out! 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast i speak to Matt Buck - AKA Running Bucky.

Matt has been in the sport of ultra running for many years and has turned his love of trail running, into a profitable business.

After a moment of inspiration at Marathon De Sables, he decided that running coaches don’t all have to be idiots. He also realised that there are many people out there who want to start trail running, but don’t know how to get started.
Running Adventures was born out of that idea.

We talk about his long standing relationship with Salomon as part of their trail running team and we talk about his other great passion, music.

Obviously it wouldn’t be an ultra-running Sam podcast if we didn’t talk about The Spine Race. So to keep all of the Spine bingo players out there happy, we dived into his DNF at this years race in January and how he feels about it on reflection.

Matt is a great guy and has had a lot of success coaching and guiding runners up and down the country.
It was a pleasure to speak to him.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast I speak to the ultra running legend John Kelly - AKA Random Forest Runner.

We talk about his background as a data scientist. How it helps with the planning and execution of running a really really long way.
We dive into his running history and how he ended up running The Barkley Marathons as his first official ultra!

We also answer the question that everyone asked me to put to him, is he coming back to The Spine Race in 2024?

To find out the answer to this and much more, please watch, listen and subscribe on all platforms!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast I speak to Ellis Bland, fresh off his win at Lakes In A Day.

This was a deep conversation that took me off guard to begin with. We talked at great lengths about body dysmorphia in men, how we seem to perpetuate the notion that “lighter is faster” and the rise of the hybrid athlete in ultramarathons.

We talk about his love of all types of running and his passion for racing in more of a North American style, different to how he’s perceived as a “fell runner”

We obviously talk about Vaga and it’s rise from being an idea, to now dominating the running world selling caps and beanies in 30+ countries globally.

Ellis is a very intelligent and interesting guy and I believe he will go on to become a truly great ultra runner on the world stage!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast I speak to Richard Lazenby about his recent win at the 13 Valleys - 7 valleys race.

We talk about his background in trail and ultra and how he got to be toeing the line at the inaugural Lake District 100km ultra last weekend.

We talk about his approach to training, dealing with niggles in the lead up to this race and how he specifically trained to meet the demands of a tough mountain race.

We talk about his creative side and his day job as a tattoo artist.

Richard is an interesting guy and he was a pleasure to speak to.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast I speak to Damian Hall.

This is Damo’s third time on the podcast and we wasted no time getting into the nitty gritty of a few things that have happened in the last week, in the world of running and ultramarathons.

Firstly Damo gives his personal thoughts on the sad news about the famous Sycamore Gap tree being felled overnight by vandals.

We then talk about Adidas’s new ‘single use shoe’ and how the Green Runners are obviously most disturbed about it coming to market.

After those two rants, we then get onto another hot topic……UTMB and their recent addition of Dacia as a leading sponsor.

We even have time to talk about his recent 4th place at TDG and his training leading up to the Spine race this coming January.

A great listen if you are interested in keeping up to date with what he and the other Green Runners are up to on our behalf.


URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

Something a bit different for this episode. I speak to friend of the show Ben Wells about all things fell running.

Ben is involved with all things fell running in north Wales. We talk about the history of fell running, the events available to everyone and his favourites.

I also fire your questions about fell running at him. So thanks to everyone that sent in their questions for Ben and hopefully we managed to suitably answer some of them to the best of our ability.

Let me know your thoughts on wether this format works or not and we may have a regular guest spot for Ben going forward!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast I speak to the photographer David Miller.

David has become a household name in the trail running media industry, with some now classic shots of the best ultramarathon runners in the world.

We talk about his short lived ultra running career before his transformation into one of the most prolific photographers in the sport.
We dive into his low-key approach and what really matters when I comes to getting those iconic shots on the worlds biggest stages.

This is a great listen if you are into trail running media and want to see behind the veil of what it takes to succeed in the industry.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to both the male and female winners of the 2023 Montane Dragons Back Race!

Hugh Chatfield was 1st male in 47:38 and Robyn Cassidy was 1st female and 3rd overall in 54:25!

Robyn and Hugh give me the lowdown on what it takes to win the DBR.
We talk about the weather, the route and their individual approaches to training, route recce-ing, nutrition and race plan execution.

This was a great chat to two great runners and it’s a must listen for anyone wanting to slay the dragon!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast I speak with Mike Stocks from Team Hour 7.

Mike is a 24 hour specialist who has broken age category world records amongst other great things. He is the man behind Team Hour 7, which is attempting to bring elite style support to top level ultra athletes. 

On the podcast we talk about how he got into running in his 30’s, his struggles with chronic pain and how he’s managed to keep coming back for more, despite being written off by doubters! 

Mike is a great example of what can be achieved later in our running lives and draws his inspiration from other athletes that have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible during later years. 

Mike is an author of a book about his experiences as a 24 hour track runner, which you can read here ⬇️

Resources for running can also be found at the Team Hour 7 website below ⬇️ 

Michael's book is 'One Track Mind’ 

One Track Mind: What Running 150 Miles in a Day Can Teach You About Life https://amzn.eu/d/ctnNfBu

His Instagram is: @michaelstocksrunner 

Michael's website and blog: https://www.michael-stocks.com/

Hour 7 can be found here: https://hour7.com/

The book on solutions to chronic pain is 'The Way Out' by Alan Gordon

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode I speak to the super talented Tom Joly.

Tom was highest placing Brit at this years UTMB in 16th place.
We talk about his performance at the biggest ultra-trail race in the world and how he’s set his sights on becoming the best ultra distance runner he can be.

We dive into his year in races so far and how he prepares mentally for running at such a high level.
Tom runs for Team Hour 7 and they provide him with top level athlete support to get him where he need to be.

Tom is a focused and driven guy and I’m excited to see how he’s going continue to prove himself at the highest levels possible!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

At the ripe old age of just 20 years old, Owen has defied the odds to not only finish the Dragons Back, one of the UK’s most infamous multiday events, but to finish it strong in 23rd place.

Not only did he do this, but he did it despite only starting to run this year!

We talk about his previous races, of which there are only two 50 milers earlier this year and how he prepared by mostly relying on his previous fitness from mountain biking and his 30+ miles a week running.

Owen is a great lad and I’m 100% sure he will go on to do great things in this sport of ours.  He’s definitely one to watch!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast I speak to Charlotte Fisher.

Charlotte has had a whirlwind 6 months. Going from high heels to trail shoes in as many months. 

After running a 50k guided trail run last year on ZERO training and swearing she would never run again, she thought she would have another crack at running ultras. 

She got herself a coach and entered the Isle of Wight challenge. 106km around the beautiful island just off the Dorset coast. 

She won that race, and won it comfortably. Then she set her sights on 100 miles. So she entered the Centurion North Downs Way…….and won that too! 

It's quite clear that Charlotte possesses a genetic ability to run long distances and I have the feeling that the sky is the limit for this fashion/travel/dog walking/house sitting blogger! 

We talk about her competitive nature, her travel and how she aims to combine her new love for ultra trail running, with her long time passion for travel. 

She is also an advocate of early diagnosis for bowel cancer, a subject close to her heart after losing her Aunty to it in recent years. Charlotte was a fun interview and I’m certain she will do great things in the sport  

See her just giving link below  

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/charlotte-fisher-106km?utm_source=copyLink&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=charlotte-fisher-106km&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=57f26db87a73470c8ed4f142a01c484a

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On todays episode I speak to Lake District runner and NorthFace sponsored athlete, Josh Wade.

Josh first caught my attention when I saw him win the 2022 Spine Challenger South.
This time I speak to him a week removed from his 3rd place podium position at the Eiger Ultratrail in Switzerland.
Josh has built up an impressive CV in ultra-trail running over the past 4 or so years that he’s been competing. He has wins and podium places to his name in all of the major UK ultras including The Spine, UTS, Lakeland 5 passes and Lakeland 100 to name a few.

Josh is a great guy and his enthusiasm for trail running is going to take him to great places and see great results.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode we speak to Alan Bateson. 

Alan is an incredibly interesting guy who has had a colourful past in his lead up to becoming not only a great ultra runner, but also a shining example of overcoming childhood abuse to become an ambassador for various charities that help young people and adults to live their lives after the trauma of living through abuse. 

We talk about his misspent youth in and out of correctional facilities. His drug and alcohol addiction and his mental health issues that have plagued his past. 

But on a more positive note, we hear about the amazing feats of endurance that he’s achieved since he went clean and started ultra running. 

We talk about his first attempt and failure to run the Welsh coastal path. We talk about his successful attempt at not only running the WCP and setting a new FKT, but also running back home on the Offa’s Dyke Trail to set another FKT! 

Alan is a deep and contemplative man and it was a pleasure to speak to him. 

Check him and his running adventures out on @therunningmonkshropshire on Instagram and why not enter one of his trail races? @runningmonk_trail_events

You can also donate to his just giving page here:

https://www.justgiving.com/team/alanswelshcoastalpathoffasdykechallenge?fbclid=PAAaYNurxvUlHR9lsUd7eDYyThGjTRDTi3DfK5Pc6xyWtOTZOJr7AMHuxeIfE_aem_AcSleQfsjDm5ni1irmpuyU_vylA3tT2JvXut0OxI9yVs8_FwasgEEYF2NL0o5it_WPA

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode I speak to Mel Sykes about her recent win at the Spine Challenger South. 

Mel shot to media attention when she inadvertently took 3rd place at GB Ultras Manchester to Liverpool race, due to cheating. Not her cheating obviously! You may recall the story made the national news when a prominent international ultrarunner decided to take a car journey during the race. The runner  then accepted the trophy for 3rd, only to be called out by the tracking company and checkpoint volunteers. 

We talk about the controversy around what happened and if it’s affected her views on racing ultras. 

We talk about her recent win at the summer Spine races and what she has planned for the next few months leading up to the Winter Spine. 

Mel is a very down to earth person and it was a pleasure to chat to her. 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode the tables are turned on our host Samuel, because he is the one being interviewed by the one and only Ben Wells.

We talk about Sams recent battle to finish the Spine Challenger North, the 160 mile race on the imfamous Pennine Way. Part of his prep to take on the full winter Spine race this coming January.

We also talk about his running history and how he got started in ultras.

A must view/listen if you are a fan of the podcast. 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast we talk to Anna Harding, aka Anna The Runner from the Running Channel.

We talk about how she got into road and trail running. Her love of all things ultra and the races she has planned for this year.

We also talk about the 2023 UTLAC 250/30 that we both went to review and race in. A beautiful new multi distance trail ultra in the mountains around lake Como Italy.

We talk about the pros and cons of poles for climbing mountains of mud and why I’m a bad descender!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On todays podcast we speak to Lauren Gregory.

Lauren has just won the Beyond The Ultimate Highland Ultra. A multi-day self supported ultra covering some spectacular scenery way up in the Scottish Islands.

We speak about her win there, her success at Marathon De Sables and her recent DNF at The Arc Of Attrition in January.

We also talk about horrific blisters and the joys of getting older in our beloved sport of ultra-running!

Lauren is a great example of working hard despite everything that life throws at you.

No doubt she will continue with her success at the big ultras she has her sights set on!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast we talk to James Nobles

James shot to Ultrarunning fame last year by winning the infamous Dragons Back Race.

This year he has just won the Northern Traverse. The 180 mile ultramarathon that follows the wainwright coast to coast route.

James tells about his journey into running. His self-coaching approach and his preparation for his recent win.

We also talk about the effect that being a new dad has on his training and performance.

James is genuinely a great guy and it was a pleasure to talk to him.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast we talk to Kelsey Wiberley.

Kelsey is a US born ultra runner that now lives in the UK.

Last weekend she cruised to a win at the GB Ultras Manchester to Liverpool 50 Mile ultra, taking first female and 6th overall!

We talk about her running history, her strength training and her openness about her almost lifelong struggle with an eating disorder ED.

Kelsey is a great example of how you can overcome your demons and make positive changes that result in running success.
If you have an interest in any of these areas then this episode is a must listen for you!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast we speak to Gavin Dale

Fresh from his win at the Lakes Traverse 100k at the past weekend, we speak about his training going into the race, his approach to different races and what he has planned for the future.

He’s had a great year so far with his first win of the year at The Arc Of Attrition in January and now the Traverse under his belt.

Gavin talks about his time living in New Zealand and settling back into life in the UK with his new home in the Lake District.

Gavin is a great guy and I’m sure he will get even better results going forward!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast.......

We speak to Kris King, one of the founders of the Beyond The Ultimate race series and now part owner of The Spine Race.

We talk about his route into multiday racing and his love for running ultramarathons around the world.
Kris tells us about his approach to risk taking, whether that be in his running or in his need to dive feet first into every challenge and opportunity that comes his way.
Some of those opportunities have been helping to grow BTU from its humble beginnings, to partnering with The Spine to help push both businesses to where they are today.

We talk about his love of Gig rowing (google it) and his goal of setting a new FKT on his beloved South West Coast Path near his home in Poole Dorset.

Check out BTU 
       https://www.beyondtheultimate.co.uk/
and The Spine Race
       https://www.thespinerace.com/

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode we speak to James Gibson about his new record triple winter round.

James completed the Bob Graham, Paddy Buckley and the Charlie Ramsay rounds solo unsupported and all in one season, only weeks apart!

We talk about his love of fell running, mountaineering and the great outdoors. He tells us about his upcoming adventures and plans for the future.

James is a great guy and I'm sure we will be hearing more about him in the coming months and years as he pushes further and faster!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode we speak to Greg Vollet the mastermind behind the GTWS.

We speak about his route into trail running from professional mountain biking and his time developing Salomon's online presence in the global trail running scene.

He speaks about the challenges of putting on the greatest traveling trail running spectacle on earth and how its going from strength to strength every year!

check it out for yourself below.

https://www.goldentrailseries.com/series/gtws.htm

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast I speak to Jon Shield.

Jon recently caught my attention for winning and breaking the course record for the Winter Spine Sprint. Knocking over 2 hours off the winter time. 

We talk about his experiences racing around the world and how he now has his sights set on breaking more course records. Starting with the Spine Challenger South this summer and then lining up with the big guns at next years full Winter Spine Race! 

Jon is a confident ultra-runner that has his sights set high. 

I’m looking forward to seeing how he executes his plan for 2023! 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast we speak to Jack Scott.

Jack heroically took second place at this years Winter Spine Race. A race that gained a lot of attention for how close the winner and Jack were as they came in to the finish. 

Jack made a slight nav error that ultimately cost him a 40 minute time penalty and the win.
We speak about how he thought the race went, his kit and his laser focus from his approach to race psychology.

As always Jack is a great guy to speak to and he really is going places with his running!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast, we talk to the legend that is Damian Hall, or Ultra Damo as he's sometimes known.

We debrief his recent win at the Montane Winter Spine Race this month. We talk about what went right, what went wrong and his battle with the 'bouncing ball of fun' Jack Scott.

You might notice that I recorded this podcast in my van on a lunch break. So if you are watching the video version I'm sometimes out of sync with my picture. The audio quality is fine though.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast, we speak to Hannah Rickman.

Hannah has progressed to become one of the most consistent competitors in the Spine Race. She has risen through the ranks and put on a Steller performance at this years race.

We talk about her upbringing and route into running. Her training going into the event and what she has learned over the years she has been part of the Spine Family.

We talk about the highs and the lows of Britain's most brutal race, and how she intends to keep coming back to it!

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

On this episode of the podcast we speak to Elaine Bisson. 

Elaine is one of the hotly tipped competitors for the podium at this years Spine race. 

Despite her French name Elaine actually heralds from the North East of England. Fortunately she forgave my assumption that she was from the continent and we had a good chat about her preparations for this years race. 

We talked about her route into ultra trail running, her upbringing in the North East and how she has made a habit of placing 2nd in big races recently. So we talked about what it would take for her to push passed second place and claim a well deserved victory in the Spine. 

We talked about her kit of choice and how she has refined it over the years she has been taking part in Britain’s most brutal race! 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast we talk to Alison Walker.

Alison came to the UK from Malaysia to go to university. 

Rather than shying away from British culture, she threw herself right into it and joined a local London running club. That was the beginning of her love affair with running and the UK.

Alison is a very humble person and suffers a great deal with what she describes in her own words as ‘imposter syndrome’

Alison is a week away from her debut at The Spine Race. So we talk about her preparation for her biggest race yet. Her previous race experience and how she got into ultras. 

Alison may have only discovered trail running recently but she has already racked up podiums in 100 mile races, 24 hour track races and winning the Race Across Scotland. 

She has been tipped to be a contender for a podium place at this year’s Spine Race.

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam

In this episode of the podcast we speak to Mike Seaman.

Mike is head honcho at Racoon Media and is responsible for the National Running Show happening again in a few weeks at Birmingham NEC. 

We talk about his career in exhibitions and why it took him 7 years to realise his idea for a running show that every runner would love. 

We talk about the shows previous guests, his favourite stories from running and how the show is getting bigger and better every year! 

We talk about his own running, his charity work and running with his buddy Susie Chan. 

If you want free tickets to the running show you can use the code ULTRASAM to get them online. 

URS

@ultrarunning_sam

@hometrails_

http://www.youtube.com/@ultrarunningsam