History

Back in 2011, I was planning to take some time off work over the following summer and looking for interesting things to do. I stumbled across the LDWA (Long Distance Walkers Association annual 100 mile walk. At this time, I had no idea that it was possible to travel such distances on foot, let alone in such a relatively short period of time.

I considered myself to be a reasonably fit 30-something and I enjoyed casual rambles through the countryside. If others could do it, surely I could. How hard could it be? I signed up.

With the encouragement of others (often 10-20+ years my senior), I finished. Not only that, but over the subsequent days, as the pain subsided, I realised it was also one of the most exhilarating and rewarding things I'd ever done.

I astounded by both the fitness and the age of my fellow competitors. For some, however, merely walking such an inconceivable distance wasn't enough - they ran!

I was hooked.

This experience was my introduction to the world of endurance sport, ultra-distance running and to what the human body is capable of when given appropriate physical and mental training.

Could I really train and become not only a runner, but also an athlete? Me? With no previous history or interest in sport? As I was heading into my 40s?

Experience / Selected Results

* New course record

A full list of ultra results can be found at the excellent DUV Ultra Marathon Statistics.

You can also follow me on  Strava  here.

Qualifications