The Home Trails Podcast

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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...

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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...

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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 Spiner...

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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 r...

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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 t...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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

@ultr...

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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...

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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 knowl...

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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 yea...

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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, whic...

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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...

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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 t...

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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...

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* 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 te...

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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...

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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 athl...

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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...

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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...

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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 w...

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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...

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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...

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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 West...

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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

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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 on...

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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 b...

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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 sha...

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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 div...

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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 grea...

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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...

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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...

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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 pand...

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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...

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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...

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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  

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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.

Rath...

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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...

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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!

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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 busine...

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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 racer...

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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 r...

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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!<...

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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 r...

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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...

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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!
...

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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 alwa...

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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

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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...

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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 hist...

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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.

T...

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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
<...

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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

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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

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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...

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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 w...

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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 hopin...

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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...

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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...

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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 chal...

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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 credi...

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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 Sigl...

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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 j...

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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 whet...

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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...

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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 w...

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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 outd...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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 week...

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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 behi...

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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_

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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!
Duration: 01:03:18

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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 surp...

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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 year...

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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

Get in touch with Ultrarunning Sam here ⬅️

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...

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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...

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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 ever...

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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/@ultr...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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 h...

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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...

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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

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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

...

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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 performa...

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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...

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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 Barrie...

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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...

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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...

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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 j...

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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 issu...

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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...