Almost three years later we are touching base again, this time to discuss the trials and tribulations of breaking the land speed record of running the 7,159km across Canada.

Starting in Newfoundland and ending in British Columbia, it took just over two months for Dave to break Al Howie's long standing speed record of 72 days 10hrs.

In just 67 days 10hrs, with an average of 105 - 106km a day, with a consistent daily finishing time of around 10 – 11hrs, this has to be one of the most outstanding ultrarunning achievements of our era.

Dave doesn’t disappoint as he shares his methods of dealing with the pain, fueling strategies, the highs during the challenge and lows that follow. Some great links to find out more...

Irunfar Interview Dave's request form if interested in Coaching 

Coaching Request Form

That means we are back in full swing and I was delighted to find the 'lost episode' with Harvey Lewis who is the man that just doesn't stop running, he has numerous podiums to his name, including winner of the iconic Badwater, winner of the Backyard championship and former record holder, Barkley Marathon competitor, the list goes on, and on, and on...an amazing ultra runner who has fueled numerous podiums on a plant based diet. Check out his Ultra Sign Up - Harvey Lewis immense list of achievements

We follow Kristi’s interview with Brian Mueller who was the last person to finish the 50k in a crazy time of 13hr 19min 48 seconds, both runners made the decision point in 11hrs 17min with seconds between them and Kristi completed the last loop seconds ahead of Brian which shows that there really is a fine line between success and failure at the Barkley Fall Classic. There were only 107 finishers in the 50k from around 373 starters so a huge drop out, with 70 people making the titty marathon finish. Not long until the lottery is completed, so good luck to everyone who has their name in the hat, or should I say commiserations!

None more amazing than this week's guest Andrea Larson who became the first female to podium in the Barkley Fall Classic this year, retaining her title from the 2021 event.

Andrea is fast becoming one of the best female ultrarunners on the circuit, having won the first back yard that she entered with an incredible 162 miles, which added to her 100 miler podiums in 2021. 

She has a strong background in adventure racing and is an extremely focused runner who puts the effort behind the performances, let's hope Laz gifts her the opportunity that she so desires.

He was met with snow swept hills and strong winds, the severe winter conditions made this an even bigger achievement for James and his crew.

And if that wasn't enough as I release this episode James is back out tackling the same course only months after his winter round, and is currently smashing it so I thought I'd better get this episode released before he finishes the round for a second time.

Click here to enter the Excel Sports Seven Sisters Race

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Graeme is no stranger to the Frozen Head Park in Tennessee as he’d raced there in the Barkley Fall Classic however this time he returns to compete along side some of the worlds most inform Ultra Runners in the main Barkley Marathon event.

I’m not going to introduce the race as I’m guessing you all know it by now, but if not check out the race that eats its young on Youtube where you’ll find some great footage on the race and more importantly race director Lazarus Lake.

Click here to enter the Excel Sports Seven Sisters Race

Click here to join The Mourne Mountain Adventures Guided Tours

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Click here to find out more information on the Art O'Neill Challenge

Click here to enter the Excel Sports Seven Sisters Race

Click here to join The Mourne Mountain Adventures Guided Tours

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For those who haven’t heard of The Art O'Neill Challenge it is a unique event, organised by, and solely for the benefit of, Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team. Its 60km route retraces the historic escape from Dublin Castle that happened on January 6th, 1592. That night, Art O'Neill, his brother Henry, and Red Hugh O'Donnell broke out of the Castle and made for Glenmalure, to safety. On a freezing night the three made their way on foot and without the benefit of winter coats, having had to leave them in their cells. Henry and Hugh both made it to safety but sadly Art, for whom the Challenge is named, succumbed to hypothermia along the way.

This win adds to a long line of great results for both Athletes Ellen won the 2021 National Adventure Race Series in Ireland and has a second place finish the Excel Sports Seven Sisters Ultra Race, and Alastair has an incredible 4th place finish in Spartathlon.

Click here to find out more information on the Art O'Neill Challenge

Click here to enter the Excel Sports Seven Sisters Race

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The well known English Bob Graham, The Welsh Paddy Buckley, The Scottish Charlie Ramsay and our local N.Ireland Round The Denis Rankin.

The challenge involved 152 summits, with 387km (240 miles) of challenging terrain with 31,800m (104,331ft) of ascent, and Ross amazingly completed the four @ forty challenge in less than 7 days which it quite astounding numbers add to the show notes if you’d like to take a look.

Ross who has been a beacon of light for those struggling with mental health and depression completed the challenge for CALM  (Campaign Against Living Miserably), I’ve added a link in the show notes if anyone would like to donate for this increasingly important charity.

Click here to donate to CALM Ross Jenkin Fundraiser

Click here to enter the Seven Sisters Skyline Discount Code INSPIRE10

Gareth King from Tandragee County Armagh who back in Aug this year not only become the National 100km champion, but he smashed the Northern Ireland record by 22 minutes in time of 7:12:30 seconds which was 6:49 pace.

Gareth has only been into the ultra scene over the last few years starting his Marathon Journey I believe in 2010 where he ran an impressive 3:34 first marathon, like many his first venture was for a local charity the Royal Belfast Hospital for sick Children who support Gareth’s son after he underwent special surgery for a serious birth defect called Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia.

Little did Gareth now that was the start of a journey which would be lead him to breaking the Northern Ireland 100km record. PB Profile

Park Run - 15:53

10k - 36:19

Half - 80:20

Marathon - 2:33:35

50k - 3:01:48

100k - 7:12:30

Links to some epic adventures!! We Run Wild NI website check it out: https://werunwildni.com/index.html

Seven Sisters Skyline Excel Sports: https://excelsports.events/event/seven-sisters-skyline/ Mourne Mountain Adventures: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MourneMountainHikes

In this episode we discuss his recent winter attempt on K2 where the team of Sherpa's historically made the first summit of the savage mountain, we also unpack his 10th summit on Everest which was an amazing achievement and one that not many world explorers carry on their CV.

Great to have Noel back on the podcast, he's local to the Mourne Mountains where I spend most of my time these days. If your interested in speding a guided hike in the Mournes with myself please check out the attached facebook page and contact me via messenger. Mourne Mountain Adventures Link

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MourneMountainHikes

Seven Sisters Skyline Link (promo code Inspire10) Seven Sisters Skyline 2022 (njuko.net)

Liz really hasn't held back in any way or form, starting on the road and moving to the trails she has gone from strength to strength racing numerous 50k to 100 mile races and although realtively new to the sport she has already raced in some of trail runnings most iconic events such as Western State, The Barkley, CCC, and has had early success on races such as the Barkley Falls Classic the list goes on and on so just click the link below and check out her Ultrasign up list....

Liz Canty UltraSignup Link

Here is link to the registration of the Seven Sisters for those interested in a 55k Classic across the Mountains of Donegal.

Seven Sisters Skyline 15th May 2022

In this episode we break down how to isolate your weaknesses and focus on those areas that can pull you out of a long endurance event such as Last one Standing, Mindset, Strength & Conditioning, Nutrition, Weaknesses, the holisitic approach to a successful performance.

Keith hasn’t been long in the sport and had a very touching introduction so if you haven’t heard Keith and Alana’s story make sure you check out episode #115.

In this episode we unpack RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) the effects it can have on the body, the signs, and the preventative actions you can take to be more aware of the condition to ensure you reach your optimal energy level when needed the most.

Clinic link for CHHP REDS clinic with Rebecca.

Facebook Groups

Mourne Mountain Adventures | Facebook

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Paddy is more commonly seen pushing the front in 5ks and 10ks, and he took on the race to the stones to gain some valuable learning for his up and coming Marathon Des Sables.

Crossing the line in first place in his first Ultra race demonstrates how much potential Paddy has and I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for Paddy as continues down the path of pain in the world of ultra running.

Paddy is running the MDS to raise much need funds for the hospice, if you’d like to support Paddy why not click on the link in the show notes and give a small donation I’m sure all donations will be greatly received.

Donation Link - Idonate.ie/TeamMorganRun

Race to the Stones Paddy's Short Film - https://youtu.be/J8aSd5N7XYA

Mourne Mountain Adventures Link - (11) Mourne Mountain Adventures | Facebook

Insta Link - www.instagram.com/mourne.mountain.adventures 

Hope you enjoy listening to our latest Barkley Episode, epic!!

A Quarter Glass of Milk Amazon

Mourne Mountain Adventures where the adventure begins...

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He has rubbed shoulders with some of the best coaches the world has ever seen which along with his own experience in racing is where he learned his skill, his passion for the sport and the athlete’s he coaches shines through in this episode, he is an amazingly interesting guy and there is no doubt in my mind that he could significantly my performance as an athlete. 1984 – Starts running at 10 years old. First competitive road race in 1984, age 14. It was the Huncote Half Marathon, Leicester.

1987 – Began training under Paul Blissett at Leicester Coritanians, coach to distance running legends Craig Mochrie and Phil Makepeace.

1996 – First international vest, 4th place in the Inter-Counties XC, and a debut half-marathon of 64 minutes in Bristol.

1997 – First competitive mountain race, Mt Roy in Wanaka, New Zealand.

1998 – Moved to Chamonix to train and race full-time in the Alps.

1999 – Completed first track-racing season working with renowned distance running coach Arthur Lydiard.

2002 – Wins second World Cup. Finishes 3rd at Sierre-Zinal and 4th in the World Mountain Running Championships.

2003 – First mountain marathon – Graubuenden in Lenzerheide, Switzerland.

2005 – First ultra-marathon – The Kepler in Te Anau, New Zealand.

2008 – A career highlight – second place in the Jungfrau Marathon.

2009 – Branching out into the Extreme Sport of Snowshoe Racing.

2010 – First year as a veteran. Wins Inter-counties Fell Running Championships and runs first road marathon in 2 hrs 27 minutes.

2013 – Completes a number of ultras, including the Swiss Alpine Marathon and The Himalayan 100.

2019 – Aged 50. New races on the road and in the mountains, including the Comrades Marathon and Subida Pico Valeta.

https://www.vo2maxcoaching.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MourneMountainHikes

https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheInspirationalRunner

Not only is Bodil Oushoorn the Design Manager at Inov-8 but she is also a kick ass ultra runner having completed the 2019 Dragons Back, we also had the pleasure of Lee Procter Communications & Ambassadors Manager who has been racing in the lake district for over 20 years and a finisher of the Bob Graham Round. Show Notes Links:

Mourne Mountain Adventures Facebook Group

The Inspirational Runner Podcast Facebook Group

Inov-8 Facebook Page

Inov-8 Website

If only I had half the knowledge that Steve Birkinshaw carries, it was great sitting down with him, I’ve been in awe of his achievements since seeing the Dragons Back race on youtube a few years ago so to sit here and get the opportunity to chat about it was pretty epic.

Guided Hikes 2 day expeditions in the Mourne Mountains:

Mourne Mountain Adventures

The Inspirational Runner Podcast Facebook Group

He has a list of accomplishments and a great depth of experience in the longer races, here is a list of some of his stand out acheivements.

Medallist, Lakeland 100,

2011, 2012, 2015.

Medallist, Wicklow Way Ultra,

2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017.

Former Wicklow Way record holder

Team Ireland / World Ultra Trail Championships 2011, 2015, 2017, 2018

Tor des Geants 330km ultra-race top 25 finisher 2017 & 2018

Functional Movement Screen (FMS) Coach

Certified Sports Massage Therapist

Certified Biomechanics Coach

Certified ITEC Personal Trainer

Paul has also teamed up with Irish International mountain runner Sarah McCormack as part of a great coaching team from 'Missing Link Coaching' you can catch Sarah on a previous episode #114 when she featured as a guest on the podcast. https://www.missinglinkcoaching.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/MourneMountainHikes https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheInspirationalRunner

Robbie loves a challenge whether it is crossing Iceland, completing the Kom-Emine in Bulgaria, setting an FKT on the 650km Jordan Trail on foot or 1100km on a bike, the next adventure is never far away with Robbie however one area he invests a lot of his time on is his coaching methods and as you will hear from this episode he has developed a wealth of knowledge through various university courses that helps his athletes succeed.

Add to the mix he is about to release his first book which should be out in the next few months so I'll share a link when available in the comments below. Robbie's website robbiebritton.co.uk The Inspirational Runners Podcast | Facebook Mourne Mountain Adventures | Facebook

I’ve just taken a look at Ben’s just giving page which can be found at www.justgiving. Com/campaign/31Stars and it is absolutely incredible, so far he has raised a phenomenal £107,799 pounds for Tom’s Trust.

Tom’s Trust is dedicated to providing psychological support for children with brain tumours and their families, I’ve added a link in the show notes to their web page https://www.tomstrust.org.uk/ which was founded in Tom’s memory with the help of his mum Debbie so please make time to take a look and show your support to Ben and Tom’s Trust, yes its an amazing amount of money but with your help I think we could double it.

Great episode from Ben, I’m sure it takes a lot out of him to run a marathon everyday and to keep the momentum moving forward, he's done a sterling job and shined a bright light through this latest lock down. I hope we can continue to increase the findraising in memory of Tom, you can donate by texting 31STARS to 70085, or go on to Ben’s just giving page www.justgiving. Com/campaign/31Stars

During his chemotherapy to the shock of his doctor Kevin started to train for a marathon, not only did he finish it but he followed it up with London marathon only two weeks later.

But Kevin being Kevin that wasn't enough, he then went on to train throughout his treatment for one of the hardest foot races on the planet the Marathon des Sables which is a grulesome six day event covering 251km through the sahara desert.

Not only did he complete it but he has continued to return year after year defying all odds to take part in the MDS, in 2020 the race was cancelled due to Covid-19 so Kevin decided to run the 251km in his garden where he raised more that £30,000 which is a small percentage of what he has already raised for Prostate Cancer. Check out Kevin's latest just giving page and please support his through out his next ventures Kevin Webber Funraiser Prostate Cancer Awareness Mourne Mountain Adventures Hiking Tours

Mourne Mountain Adventures Facebook Group

The Inspirational Runner Podcast

The Inspirational Runner Podcast Facebook Group

Pam Reed the first female to be the overall winner of Badwater in 2002 and again in 2003 pushing Dean Karnazes into second place.

First person to run over 300 miles (302) without sleeping 74 hrs.

Previous USA 24hr track record holder

Six day USA record holder 490 miles

Amazingly Pam finished the Western State, Hard Rock & Badwater all within 4 weeks of each other in 2015 (you have to agree that is one epic stat)

She is scheduled to run her 99th 100 miler last month, by the time this goes out I’m sure she will have run her 100th 100 mile race which is a cool stat to hit but there’s no way Pam will stop there.

We had a great laugh recording this episode so many obstacles had to be overcome, not to mention not pressing record on the mic but like all good ultra events we managed to knock out the problems and just about make it over that finish line. Click link below for Mourne Mountain Adventures: Mourne Mountain Adventures

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Fast forward 10 months later and she crosses the finish line in the 48km Cortina Mountain race in 1st place, it defies belief, it really does show you what is possible if you keep a positive mind.

What is even more impressive is that the following spring she slips on the ice and breaks her ankle, again has to have surgery then 5 months later crosses line in 2nd place on one of the worlds toughest mountain races TDS on the extended 145km course which takes in over 9000m of vert.

As amazing her story is, I thought it important not to go past how awesome Hillary was pre accident, graduate who started running in 2011, ran a 2:51 marathon, and moved her way up in the rankings to 1st in the World Sky Running series. The Mourne Seven Sevens Virtual Challenge 17,052ft (5198m) https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?event_id=7730

Hillary Allen Book Release Out and Back Out and Back: A Runner's Story of Survival Against All Odds: Allen, Hillary, Blue Star Press: 9781944515959: Amazon.com: Books

It was an epic event to be part of the UK came team home finished in 13th place out of 21 when Richie Hinson completed his 39th loop, Johnny Breen came in an amazing 2nd place which shows how much he developed as a competitive ultra runner over the last couple of years.

Ed McGroarty and Eoin Keith ensured Ireland finished in 10th place with an pretty impressive 42/41 loops, but the big story in my eyes was this weeks guest Nick Lister who less than 6 years ago weighed in at 19 stone and realised it was time to turn a corner. After completing a couple of Ironmen Nick entered the Castleward backyard and failed his way to completing the magical 100 mile mark during the world championships where he and his team completed against the likes of Courtney Dauwalter, Amelia Boone, Maggie Guterl and lets not forget Karel Sabbe who managed to complete 75 loops which is an astonishing 321.5 miles. This is a great story of growth and perseverance, Nick has really recoloured his life through the world of Ultra Running, a real down to earth guy who just likes putting himself through hell. My favourite piece of this episode is where Nick has his break through during his 500 (524) mile run around the North of Scotland, enjoy....

All our guests on this special winter round edition have completed and held course record on the Denis Rankin, we start with committee member and summer round finisher in both directions Aaron Shimmons kindly provides an introduction to the round. Aaron Shimmons Male Anti- Clockwise Summer round course record 19:22 Moire O'Sullivan Female Clockwise winter round course record 21:24 NIall Gibney Male Anti-Clockwise winter round course record 20:21 Shane Lynch Male Clockwise winter round course record 16:36 Click here to go to straight to the Denis Rankin Website

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Luckily the Kerryway Ultra went ahead and our next guest managed to crawl his way to first place after his A race UTMB was cancelled, as amazing as this was I didn’t want to go past his UTMB TDS 31st place from 2019 which was a mind blowing result on one of the most technical races on the world circuit. Numerous accolades to his name such as the Wicklow Way Course Record holder, 2nd fasted Denis Rankin Round, Sub 3 marathoner and Irish Trail Runner.

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It was marked as the worlds toughest mountain race with 315km and 15,500m vert but cruely they have added an additional day for the 2021 edition bringing it to a total of 380km across 6 days that takes in over 17,400m of vert with ridges and climbs such as Crib Gogh and Snowdon, I’m sure its going to be a beautifully painful race. 

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The Dragons Back Race:

https://www.dragonsbackrace.com/

Age really is just a number when it comes to long distance ultra running, Olivier is highly competitive at the age of 48 although he wouldn’t want to admit it taking numerous 100 mile podiums. He was lined up with the worlds best for Bigs backyard ultra this year, real shame it’s turned into a satellite event but it will still make for some interesting dot watching I’m sure. Olivier Leblond Ultra Sign Up Results https://ultrasignup.com/results_participant.aspx?fname=Olivier&lname=Leblond

Hiking Tours in the Mournes Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/MourneMountainHikes The Inspirational Runner Podcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheInspirationalRunner

As usual I had no time to prep for this episode but when you have one of the world’s best ultrarunners on the line finding things to talk about is never going to be an issue, in this episode we unpack the life of a 100 mile expert, training, fuel, mindset, the grounded approach to life in general.

This really is just a chat about everything from the Speegoat himself....

• Currently hold the record for most 100 mile trail race wins on earth: 38
• Most 100 wins in a calendar year (6 in 2006), (5 in 2007), (5 in 2009), (4 in 2005)
• 60 race wins, 52 of them Ultamarathons, 8 trail marathons
• 2006 Ultrarunner of the Year
• 2006 Everest Award
• Runner up-Ultrarunner of the Year, 2007, 2009
• 4th fastest Appalachian Trail completion 2008. 2176 miles, 54 days 21 hours, 12 minutes
• Red Bull Human Express 2010. (Pony Express Trail, Sacramento, CA to St. Joseph, MO 2064 miles, 40 days. 105 miles the last day in 19:21
• All-time winner, Hardrock 100. 5 wins
• All-time winner, Wasatch 100. 6 wins
• All-time winner, Massannutten 100. 4 wins
• All-time winner, San Diego 100. 3 wins
• All-time winner, Squaw Peak 50. 5 wins
• Winningest 100 mile runner on earth.
• 16 years in a row of winning at least 1, 100 mile race. A world record
• World Record 230 golf holes played in 12 hours.
• On September 18, 2016, Meltzer set an Appalachian Trail record by completing the 2,190 miles over 14 states in 45 days 22 hours and 38 minutes
• Speed Record for running the Pony Express Trail from Sacramento, California to St. Joseph, Missouri

He ran the 89km down course in an amazing 5hr 24min 7 sec (which is a crazy pace of 5:48), but even more amazing he ran the challenge up course in 5hr 27 min 42 sec (for a pace of 5:52)

He has completed the Comrades course 30 times, won the London to Brighton ultramarathon three years in a row. He was the former world record holder over 50 miles and the former world record holder over 100 km.

With all his numerous successes in the sport you can tell from this interview that his proudest is his introduction of Park Run into South Africa where he has touched the lives and left a legacy for 1.2 million people who have currently signed up to the compete in the Sat 5km.

Truly is a humble guy who has holds a lot of experience and is considered as one of the best runners in the world.

You can find this interview on youtube just search for the Inspirational Runner and make sure you click subscribe so that you don’t miss out on the list of Inspirational Runners that we have lined up. https://youtu.be/IokJH7YcVEU

Ted McDonald aka Barefoot Ted inspired a nation and very soon after the book Born to Run was released there was movement in barefoot running which Ted was very much a part of, he is an exceptional runner and has now moved into an amazing space in life he has enough positive energy flowing through him to heal the universe.

If your enjoying the podcast please support the new platform by donating £10 to our crowd funding page which will help to cover the subscriptions costs over the next two years. https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/theinspirationalrunner?utm_term=7GAJvMKR3

She ran in the 1500 m at the 1974 British Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, New Zealand, finishing sixth, and top New Zealander, in the final with a time of 4:21.1.

In the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Audain competed in both the 800 and 1500 m. Although she failed to get past the heats, she broke the New Zealand record for the 1500 m.

Prior to the start of the 1980s, major track and field athletics meetings had not had any women's events longer than 1500 metres. This started to change early in the new decade, and in March 1982, Audain competed in her first 5000 metres, breaking the world record. In the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane she won Gold in the 3000 metres in 8m 45.53s, a Newzealand record. The record stood for 25 years until it was finally broken by Kim Smith of Auckland, when she ran 8min 35.31sec on 25 July 2007 in Monaco.

At the 1984 Olympic Games Audain competed in the inaugural women's Olympic marathon. In the 1988 Games, her last, she finished 11th in the inaugural women's 10,000 metres.

In 1993 Audain founded the Idaho Women's Fitness Celebration 5K, now the largest 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) race for women in the USA. She was the first professional female runner who took a prize purse of $10,000 which seen her receive a life time 'temporary', ban from the world of athletics.

If you would like to help support the future of the podcast please donate £10 by clicking on the link below to help support a new subscription package for the next 2 years which will significantly improve the sound quality. https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/theinspirationalrunner?utm_term=7vwPvKGN8&fbclid=IwAR0P1_5kMNZjJwxt7nxSAgIYPSl-KVTj-LoHbfHpXEr8yT6O3LQl6qinTVY

Last September Kerry broke her 5th metatarsal during a key race in Spain, she was in top form, with her sights set on the road to Tokyo. That’s the kind of devastation that would send most of us down the rabbit hole of despair, obviously disappointed to have lost months of hard work like a true athlete she directed her focus on strengthening her mind body back into condition and at the age of 39 she is coming into the form of her life.

In this episode Kerry touches on the difficulty that women athletes face during their menstrual cycle, the impact it has on their training and more importantly their race condition, I’ve seen other athletes such Eilish McColgan talking this subject which I think is important for our up and coming young female athletes. You can actually join Kerry in a running performance workshop which is hosted by David Roche,  its in Kilkenny on the 11th 10:35 – 16:00 it’s a great opportunity to run and talk with a great Irish athlete. Running Performance Link https://www.eventbrite.com/e/running-performance-workshop-tickets-111521082560?utm_source=eventbrite&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=post_old_publish&utm_content=fullLinkOldEmail&fbclid=IwAR2ZOEFk0U8LWfETxWEOcCYZuT35Ej_md15KzLTr1iZFZurvwgfmMeNlSi4 Click and register for The Finn McCool Virtual challenge on the link below, event starts on the 10th July it would be awesome to have you join us for a virtual tour of the 32 counties of Ireland. 

https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?elid=Y&event_id=7268

If you’re enjoying the podcast why not join us on our facebook page named The Inspirational Runner Podcast by clicking the link below.

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In this episode we break down the Relentless Ultra which sounds pretty awesome, but it was Rik's ability to run marathon after marathon in incredible times that in my mind makes him so awesome.

It didn't come easy, you can tell through this episode how focused and discplined he was to the training but also quite a bit of pig ignorance invovled.

An amazing and genuine person, make sure you check out his website at Pheonixrunning.co.uk https://www.phoenixrunning.co.uk/

Click and register for The Finn McCool Virtual challenge on the link below, event starts on the 10th July it would be awesome to have you join us for a virtual tour of the 32 counties of Ireland. 

https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?elid=Y&event_id=7268

If you’re enjoying the podcast why not join us on our facebook page named The Inspirational Runner Podcast by clicking the link below.

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He ran a sub 3hr during lock down and he went on to run 10 sub 4 hour marathons in 10 consecutive days as part of the great virtual run across Tennessee (GVRAT) completing 636 miles in 26 days, he also got back up and completed the Dublin to Belfast 107 mile ultra in 2019 and has already signed up for the 214 mile out and back event.

We unpack the backyard a little and talk about the new dimension that the virtual race has brought to the running community during lock down.

His numbers from the Lazarus Lakes GVRAT

636.7 miles run (about 100 walked) in 26 days 57th place out of 19473 worldwide participants 3rd place in UK (1100 participants) 4th place in Ireland (much more hardcore than UK) 976,171 steps taken 24.5 miles per day average 105 hours running / walking 1 sub 3 hour marathon 10 sub 4 hour marathons on consecutive days 55324 calories burned (apparently)

Click and register for The Finn McCool Virtual challenge on the link below, event starts on the 10th July it would be awesome to have you join us for a virtual tour of the 32 counties of Ireland. 

https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?elid=Y&event_id=7268

If you’re enjoying the podcast why not join us on our facebook page named The Inspirational Runner Podcast by clicking the link below.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheInspirationalRunner/

He completed Lazarus Lakes Vol State 500km which we unpack during the episode and has competed in the Barkley four times, it was great listening to his simplistic approach towards his running, a real raw 

Check this out - The Finn McCool Virtual Team Challenge a 1350km virtual race which is equivalent of running a marathon in each of the 32 counties in Ireland, your team of four will have 16 weeks to complete the challenge which is a minimum of 13.1 miles a week for each team member it starts on the 10th July so click on the below link an

For the Loonie Leprechauns out there you will have an option of chasing down the Golden Shamrock by taking on the challenge on your own, are you as brave as the giant Finn McCool 1350km in 16 weeks.

Click and register for the virtual challenge on the link below events starts on the 10th July but you can still register any time during the month of July you'll just have less time ;P

https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?elid=Y&event_id=7268

If your listening to this we would love you to come and join the craic on our facebook page named The Finn McCool Virtual Challenge, it would be great to see runners from all other the globe joining us through a virtual tour of the 32 counties in Ireland.

Join the challenge group by clicking below....

https://www.facebook.com/TheInspirationalRunner

Well our next guest decided that's exactly what he would do, but more than that, somewhere along the line he decided that he would be the first home from 18,999 people completing the 2000km (1283 miles) in 27 days which is remarkable.

As amazing as it sounds John isn't new to running crazy distances, I don't think I've ever seen an ultra sign up cv as impressive as John's completing many 50 - 100 mile races and beyond including 4 x Big Dog's Back Yard Ultras, 5 x Barkley classics and numerous other famous races.

John has a wealth of experience and in this episode I tried to draw as much of that out of him as possible, breaking down diet, recovery, heart rate, and what it takes to keep moving on your feet for long periods of time. We break down the back yard events and of course his journey along the 2000km GVRAT, he's an amazing guy and some one you'd like to sit down and get the craic with over a cold one. Ultra Sign Up Link https://ultrasignup.com/results_participant.aspx?fname=John&lname=Sharp

Team Alanna Facebook Link https://www.facebook.com/teamalanna1/

We discuss ascending and the more difficult descending techniques and what it takes to become a world class mountain runner, really enjoyed recording this episode, if it would have went on any longer I think I would have signed up for her online training course found at  www.missinglinkcoaching.co.uk

I would like to relate her to the female version of Forrest Gump but he stopped running, Terri is currently on the return stretch running the 1000km back to the start which is epic. Long distance running is not new to Terri a Backyarder in this years big line up of Big Dog's Back Yard Ultra and a competitor in 2018, and last May she ran over 2000km in the single month. Here's a link to her charity every penny counts so why not support Terri on her amazing race across Tennesse  https://p2p.onecause.com/racehd/terri-biloski?fbclid=IwAR3ywtbZ2vGCfCEXeBLtoXRXxDyAdgi1R-BFQs6pmitbbH1KxJ8XKja-JaQ

Great epsiode that breaks down sports nutrition, training blocks, Castleward Back yard ultra, BadWater, The Jogle, The Himalayan LA Ultra The High, all other things relating to extreme ultra running.

Super CV what hasn't she done .....

Scorcher Festival of Running, 7 marathons in 7 days, 1st lady, 2017 * Mauna 2 Mauna Ultra 250km, 2nd lady, 2017 * Orta 10 marathons in 10 days, Italy, second lady, 2016 * Hardmoors 110 miles, first lady 2016 * World Record for running 12 hrs on a treadmill, 2015 * 6 Day Circuit, South Africa, first lady, second person, 2014 * Fire and Ice Ultra 250km, first person, 2013 * Ocean Floor Race, 160 miles, ladies winner 2013 (2nd overall) * Grand to Grand Ultra, 167 miles, first lady 2012 * World record, running from Mizen Head to Malin Head, Ireland, 346 miles in 4 days, 1 hr, 39 mins * World record for running 7 days on a treadmill, 833km. * Winner of The High, 222km in the Himalayas, new course record by over 11 hours * British 6 day road record and winner of Athens race 2011 * De Zestig van Texel 120km 2011, ladies winner and fastest time by a GB athlete * Hardmoors 110, ladies winner and female course record 2011 * Trans-Slovenia Winter Edition, ladies winner, 2010 * Commonwealth 24 Hour Champion 2009 * Badwater Ultramarathon 2009, fastest time ever by a GB person * British Indoor 24 Hour Record, 2008, Bislett Stadium, Oslo * Marathon des Sables 2008 * Libyan Challenge ladies winner 2008 * Libyan Challenge ladies winner 2007 * LEJOG WorldRecord Holder, 2006 * Finisher of the Verdon Canyon Challenge 2006 * Finisher of the Transalpine run, 2005 * Bronze medallist in National 100km Championships 2005 * Became Centurian 1006 at Colchester 2004 * Winner of the Moravian Ultra Marathon 2004 (7 marathons in 7 days) * Finished the Flora 1000 Mile Challenge 2003 * British 100km Champion 1994, 2002 * AAA of England 24 Hour Champion 1994, 1997, 1998 * British 24 Hour Champion 1997, 1998 * Team silver medallist at European 100km Championships 1995 * Team silver medallist at European 24 Hour Championships 1996, 1998 * Team bronze medallist at European 100km Championships 1997 * Ladies Winner for England at Anglo-Celtic Plate 1999

***Sponsor of this episode Excel Sports***

Who’s joining us for the WILD ATLANTIC 500K summer Virtual Challenge. Walk, Jog or Run. Do it over 3 months (5.2k) day average, or Challenging yourself to doing it in as short a time as possible, We don’t mind 😃 16 Days to START. June 1.

Currently we have entries from USA, Belgium, Germany, Scotland, Wales, and All over Ireland.

If you register before June 1st, you will be included in our first draw for a hotel stay in Donegal 🤭

GET REGISTERED TODAY AT:

https://www.njuko.net/wild-atlantic-500k-virtual

MAKE THE COMMITMENT AND MAKE IT HAPPEN.

If you haven’t already why not download the podbean app and follow The Inspirational Runner Podcast also found on Apple podcasts, iTunes, Spotify and other places I’m not aware of....

Find out more information by joining The Inspirational Runner group found on facebook, we welcome you into our community👉🏻👽👈🏻

Link to facebook group The Inspirational Runner https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheInspirationalRunner/

Link to Podbean https://theinspirationalrunner.podbean.com/

You have to know Fiona to know how remarkable she is, no coaches, no time off, she looks after over 600 animals at her sanctuary and only eats one vegan meal a day after she has tended to all her animals and to top it all off she lost her knee cap in her teens where she was told she will never walk again let alone become an elite runner on the world stage.

She truly is a remarkable genuine person who runs purely for the love of the animals, if you have not yet seen her film ‘Running for Good’ then I’d highly recommend it currently showing on Amazon prime, which is a documentary based film following Fiona through her exploits during the Marathon de Sables.

Unassuming, the girl next door, genuine, heart warming and forever giving, she is such a super star I didn’t even edit this podcast, she has more energy than a bolt of lightning.

I’d just like to give a shout out to the sponsors of this episode Spring Energy gels, it’s a natural product and just what I’ve been looking for to help me navigate away from the GI issues and energy crashes that I’ve been having during my events whilst taking other gels and sports nutrition, it’s made from real food, it has no maltodrextrin added, no sugar added, no preservatives, artificial colours or concentrates, its made with 100% natural foods such as rice, beetroot, banana, coconut water, peanut butter, only high quality ingredients, driven by science, equipped with a vast athletic experience and inspired by passion for a healthy life style, all listeners can benefit from 15% off their Vegan range by using the code InspireSpring during the month of May 2020, they have a great 8 pack Vegan sampler pack so why not give them a try. Link to website https://myspringenergy.eu/collections/all Link to facebook group The Inspirational Runner https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheInspirationalRunner/

Link to Podbean https://theinspirationalrunner.podbean.com/

Mark Cockbain Events click here at your own peril  http://www.cockbainevents.com/

Mark himself is a sub three hour marathoner but he has been drawn to events around the globe that have challenged his limits and beyond such as a double Badwater which was a 300 mile race in Death Valley Arizona, he completed the famous Spartathlon five years in a row and has finished crazy races like the Yukon Arctic Ultra, he has an extensive CV having completed 106 ultras and 198 marathons and it’s that experience he tries to bring to his events.

I found this to be a brilliant episode that presents a road map on how to mentally manage and navigate through those more challenging times on course, I hope you enjoyed,I hope you find something that you can use yourself, I know I’ll be listening to this again as part of my prerace prep in my next big event.

RACE COUNTER  

ULTRAS  106       MARATHONS 198 (PB 2:53)

THE HIGH 2010 (WINNER and only finisher)

JOHN O GROATS TO LANDS END (JOGLE) 2010 (15 days and 3 hours and 40mins)

SPARTATHLON 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005   (PB: 34:23)

BADWATER DOUBLE (DEATH VALLEY 300) 2007

BADWATER 2005, 2003, 2009   (PB: 46:12)

GRAND UNION CANAL RACE 2009, 2007, 2006, 2002   (PB: 34:44)

TRANS 333 2006 (second place overall)

YUKON ARCTIC ULTRA (320) 2006 (sixth place overall)

JORDAN DESERT CUP 2001

MARATHON DE SABLES 2000

COMRADES 2004

WEST HIGHLAND WAY 2005, 2006

VERDON TRAIL 2002

LONDON TO BRIGHTON 2001, 2002, 2003

MARATHON OF BRITAIN 2004

LIBYAN CHALLENGE 2008

BASEL 24 HOUR 2008

ULTRABALATON 135 2008

HULL 24 HOUR TRACK 2008

DAVOS 78K 2008

ULTRA TRAIL MONT-BLANC 2008

CAESARS CAMP 100 2008

ATACAMA CROSSING 2009 (seventh place overall)

THAMES RING 250 2009 (fifth place)

FINLAND INDOOR 24HR TRACK 2010, 2011 (PB: 201km)

GLASGOW TO EDINBURGH 2010

THE ONER 2010

CRAWLEY 12HR 2010, 2011 (PB 75.83 miles)

TRANSYLVANIAN 50K

She’s amazingly only been ultra running since 2017 but managed 4th place in UTMB’s TDS last year and competed in Big Dogs Backyard Ultra last Oct which she seen as a path way in to the Barkley Marathon which was unfortunately delayed this year.

Anna really hit the lime light during the Quarantine Backyard but I decided to go a little deeper in this episode as we’re witnessing the birth of an ultra runner.

**So you heard it here first folks Swedish Backyard Ultra Extreme, I think it would be epic under the northern lights, hope you enjoyed Anna’s story there are other podcasts and interviews out there which break down the Quaratine backyard so I did my best to navigate around the event and focus more on the runner

Winner of the Badwater 135 mile race through death valley, holder of the Great Western State 10 times finisher buckle, he’s ran 350 miles nonstop where he invented the new sport of sleep running, completed the 3000mile run across America, ran 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days finishing with Newyork Marathon with an amazing time of 3hr 30 seconds, the list goes on and on running countless marathons and ultramarathons.

He hadn’t ran in years then on his 30th birthday whilst out drinking with his mates he took a head stagger, ran out of the bar, and ran 30 miles into the night, the very next day he resigned from his high level corporate job and pursued a career in running.

He’s been on numerous chat shows which included The Late Show with David Letterman, one of my old favourites The Howard Stern Show, Late Night with Conan O'Brien etc..

He has also appeared on the cover of Runners' World, Outside, and Wired magazines, and has been featured in TIME, Newsweek, People, GQ, The New York Times, USA TODAY, The Washington Post, Men's Journal, Forbes, The Chicago Tribune, The Los Angeles Times, and the London Telegraph, among others. Karnazes won Competitor magazine's "Endurance Athlete of the Year" award three times, and also earned ESPN's ESPY award.

He has released top selling books with my favourite being Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner

50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathons in 50 Days

Run: 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss, Rodale

The Road to Sparta: Reliving the Ancient Battle and Epic Run that Inspired the World's Greatest Footrace

Other honors include:

Competitor magazine Endurance Athlete of the Year Award winner, 2008, 2006, 2005

ESPN ESPY Award winner, "Best Outdoor Athlete", 2007

Men's Journal, Adventure Hall of Fame, 2007

Outside magazine, Ultimate Top 10 Outdoor Athletes, 2004

Not only has he stayed clean and sober since then but he has gone on to take on some of the biggest and most challenging races on the planet, his latest being in March of this year which was the 350 mile Iditarod trail invitational foot race which cuts through Alaska in the harshest of conditions, not only did he finish it after having some pretty cool hallucinations but he won the race out right.

He has a long list of adventure races on his CV such as crossing the 700 km frozen Lake Baikal in Siberia, The Likeys 6633 Ultra which is a 566km non-stop, self-sufficient foot race, and the 500km Yukon to name a few.

His biggest adventure to date was to row solo across Atlantic Ocean as part of the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge. The 5, 000 km crossing took Gavan 49 days to complete and he finished on February 1st 2017 landing in Antigua after spending the entire time alone in his 20ft boat 'Doireann'. He left La Gomera in the Canaries on December 14th 2016. Not only did he win the Solo category of the race, breaking the race record for the concept class, but he beat all the other 3-man and pair boats, finishing in 3rd overall behind the 4-man boats recording one of the fastest times for a solo crossing.

I've decided to record a two part series, in part 1 we unpack his recent win in the (Ididarod) Iditarod trail invitational foot race, in part 2 we look back to the adversity that Gavan had to over come, the turning point and the journey that brought him to where he is today.

An inspiring story that we can all learn from, no matter how tough it gets in life there is always a path to greatness.

She also holds the FKT for the Kilimanjaro summit ascent, winner of numerous stage races through the Jungle, Desert and extreme Altitudes, she graces an 18hr 45 min Bob Graham Round which is pretty awesome from a runner from flat Denmark who’s highest ascent is a mere 180m.

It really is an exciting time for Irish marathoners, we are seeing a lot start to come together on the build up for Tokyo but with another 6 months to go anything could happen.

I’m out of action after spraining the ankle over the weekend on a flat piece of road, so it looks like I’ll be out for the next 6 months meaning Lavaredo is out for this season, the Coronavirus is cancelling racing all over the place so hopefully it will settle soon so that people can cash in on their hard training.

For those that don’t know Courtney won UTMB last year so we unpack that experience, she also holds the Last one Standing record for women and second overall to Johan Steene running an amazing 279 miles, she was first women home in the Great Western state with a finishing time of 17hr 27min which is mind blowing, she won the run rabbit run 100mile race in 2016 with second place 75 minutes behind and she retained her title in 2017 even though she battled with temporary blindness in the final 12 mile on a very technical course.

Courtney has redefined the pain cave, she is an ambassador to Salomon and is famous for those shorts, at the age of 35 she is very young in the world of ultra running so we have a lot more to see from Badass. 

Every once in a while a game changer, a maverick arrives to entertain us in the sporting arena and in life too. She is it! She is the most down to earth, ordinary person. Yet there is nothing ordinary about her. She demolishes everything in front of her and yet almost embarrassed about her achievements. A class act and role model for all aspiring athletes out there. @Greg Dillion

He took 2nd place in both the North Pole and Antarctica Marathons, and 1st place in the even more challenging Volcano marathon. He didn’t only succeed at marathon distance as he took gold in the 1500m in both the 2012 & 2014 Invictus games which contributed to his team being awarded the Helen Rollason award during the 2014 Sports Personality awards night which is presented for the outstanding achievement in the face of adversity.

If that wasn’t enough Luke went on to compete in the world marathon challenge of completing 7 marathons in 7 continents in 7 days, clocking and average pace of 3:09:32 which was the fastest time recorded for this event from someone in Britain.

This is a really gripping and inspirational story of never giving up, staying positive, and trusting in the process, its episodes like this that make the podcasts worthwhile truly outstanding....

He also holds the 72-hour record (500 kilometres), the 12-hour treadmill record (153.8 kilometre) and the fastest 100-mile treadmill record (12:32:26). 

He has quite a few 100 miler wins under his belt, including running 170km to the start of a 100 miler the day before the race then managed to take the win the next day.

He attempted to run the 7200km across Canada in 66 days to bring awareness to rare diseases to help support his son, due to injury he managed half way before he had to pull the plug but he has set up to make another attempt in May this year.

Another superb episode, I’ve upgraded the sound again so hopefully you see an improvement and for those taking on the Castleward Backyard this weekend I hope you take something from this episode.

Absolutely loved chatting to Dave, you can learn a lot from his mindfulness approach to both his running and life in general, we wish him all the luck this year with his transcontinental run across Canada, over 7000km in 66 days sounds crazy until its done.....

Shaun was the inaugural winner of the seven Sisters skyline challenge in 2018 so we delve into the event as I know quite a few listeners have already signed up for the race this Aug, he’s also competed in OCC, CCC & TDS and is being drawn back this year again for the 108mile UTMB challenge.

I’d just like to announce a competition that we are running for our 100th episode which has one of if not my most favourite Ultra Runner of all time Courtney Dauwalter, the episode is being released on the 29th Feb, it is sponsored by Excel Sports, and the winner will receive a free race entry into this years Seven Sisters event in either the 27km challenge event or the 50km skyline event both being held on the 15th Aug, I took part last year and can’t recommend this race enough, I believe that there are around 14 countries already being represented so its going to be an awesome event not to be missed.

That's 10 long distance Triathlon events (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run) every day for 10 days.

He followed that up with 52 Ironman events (long distance triathlon distances) in 52 weeks, which included 5 Ironmans in 5 days, and also triple Ironmans 7.2 mile swim, 336 mile bike followed by a 78.6 mile run.

He failed his way to success, an absolute gent, who fuels his events on a pure plant based diet, this is an ultra endurance podcast that lasts two hours and you'll see why, so make sure you tune in next Friday to catch this epic episode.

A Brutal Beautiful adventure wow what an event and what a race this year John is an outstanding athlete and if he manages to complete the Grand Rounds he will go down in history as one of the fittest men on the planet, some super episodes on the podcast so if your tuning in for the first time why not check out a few of our latest episodes, Lazarus Lake, Damian Hall, Nicky Spinks, Maggie Guterl, Eoin Keith to name a few and watch out for our 100th episode special with my favourite ultra runner of all time Courtney Dauwalter.

A very special lady, here's a few of her achievements

2001 First Fell Run

2011 Gran Raid Pyrenees  1st lady

2011 Fellman 97km 1st lady (4 years in a row)

2011, she set a new women's record of 64 for the number of Lakeland peaks climbed in 24 hours

2012 Bob Graham Round 18hrs 12min (record at the time)

2013 Paddy Buckley Round 19hr 02min (record at the time)

2014 Charlie Ramsey Round 19hr 39min (record at the time)

2014 100km 10 peaks extreme 1st lady

2016 UTMB 12th Place

2016 Bob Graham Double (record)

2017 Charlie Ramsey Double (record)

2017 Lakeland Challenge in 11:02, a new women's record

2018 170km Ultra Tour Monta Rose 1st lady

2019 Paddy Buckley Double (Record)

2019 Barkley Marathon

Diagnosed with Breast cancer in 2005 she is just one awesome ultra endurance fell runner!!

A Journalist who has turned into one of Britain's most respected Ultra Coaches, it was a real joy chatting with Damien who shows you what can be done when you with the right level of determination and focus.

Good luck to everyone with the UTMB draw no matter what your race, hopefully you get pulled and we’ll be hearing you on the podcast before the end of the year. Cape Wrath Video Link https://vimeo.com/ondemand/capewrathfkt/378563601?fbclid=IwAR0JHiPFGg5D_W_YdMt0fjmB8icyOclStiDbkALxvMnU5YZSGdfA2cnjZPM

The Underdog https://www.summitfevermedia.com/underdog?fbclid=IwAR0GDFrnwWqUq2N3avJ6B4jIX0vwUMLGjvJ1GsS5yfqc60utS-lswhiEC1w

Brendan has already competed in the London 2012 & Rio 2016 Olympics and with Tokyo closing in he is coming into the form of his life.

His main aim going into the backyard wasn’t to contest winning but to find out how far he could challenge his own limits, well he done just that and more he looked like he was at deaths door half way through the race and miraculously through a deep strength of resilience and determination he kept showing up at the starting line ready to battle against his own inner voices.

It wasn’t long until 66+ became four, and Katie Wright dropped followed by the race favourite Dave Proctor, this left Will as the last man standing and the remaining challenger against Maggie Guterl who went on to claim over all victory.

This is a superb competition which really brings out the best in people, if you haven’t already check out podcast #86 from race director Lazarus Lake and podcast #87 Maggie Guterl winner of this year’s Big Dog’s Back Yard Ultra, these three podcasts make for an epic sequence to be enjoyed, and if you listen carefully there are some great tips for those preparing to step up to the starting line of a back yard ultra.

I’m worryingly starting to feel drawn to the race after Eoin’s kit break down in this week’s episode. @ The Spine Race 2nd to Jasmin Paris (1stMale)

• Break down of kit to taking on the challenge

@THE PROJECT

• UTMB Ushuaia (Age Group 2nd)
• UTMB Chamonix (Age Group 3rd)
• UTMB OMAN (1st Overall)

If you haven’t already make sure you down load the podbean app and follow The Inspirational Runner, also found on iTunes, apple podcast, Spotify and other places I’m not aware of.

If you like the podcast why not join us for some running inspiration on The Inspirational Runners Podcast group on facebook. Spirit of Running best use of Social Media Please take a second to vote here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/SORNISocialMedia?fbclid=IwAR2F3D-qjz4qGORQ0uFWD9s8nH-Zk7Z-m8GsooOrIXsoZIWkB6Jy-7ZFqwM

This is a comprehensive journey through Mary’s life from her climb to athletic supremacy to having her life threatened, losing her coach to a car accident 6 months after Olympic gold, to building the Mary Peters track and setting up a stepping stone charity the Mary Peters Trust to help young Irish athletes chase their dreams. Lady Mary Elizabeth Peters has more letters behind her name than the earl of Kensington, but this year she was very honoured to named as Lady Companion of the Order of the Garter which is the highest order of Knight hood that the Queen can appoint.

I’d just like to give a huge shout out for Mary’s latest book which is an exceptional gift to present to any young person at Christmas, it’s called ‘Passing The Torch’ and it celebrates some of the most successful female athletes (see link below), Sales from the book will raise money for the Mary Peters Trust which supports young athletes. 

Passing the Torch: Mary Peters Sportswomen who Inspire (Great Xmas Present) https://www.amazon.co.uk/Passing-Torch-Peters-Sportswomen-Inspire/dp/1902471164/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3NKHEA4ZGNYC7&keywords=passing+the+torch&qid=1576353945&s=books&sprefix=passing+the+to%2Cstripbooks%2C221&sr=1-1

Spirit of Running ‘Best Use of Social Media’ https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/SORNISocialMedia?fbclid=IwAR20t_n9WlVufHuTbFl1ttuuS_c7W9LmnnaXYzQml8Cs75koyR4I5PH_NsU

1991 was an amazing year for Liz giving birth to her daughter Eilish, winning the New York marathon taking 3 min of the world record for fastest marathon debut, and being rewarded bbc sports personality of the year.

One of Scotland’s most successful athletes, Liz McColgan also took silver in the 10,000 metres event at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul and went on to win Tokyo marathon and after a career threatening injury she bounced back after being side lined for two years to win the prestigious London Marathon

This episode has it all focus, determination, career threatening injury and one of the biggest come backs of all time!!!

The race consists of a 4.1666 mile loop on the property of Lazarus Lake in Bell Buckle Tennessee, the runners have 60 minutes to complete the loop and get back on the start line ready to go again before they are timed out, sounds easy right, well how do you think you would feel after 60 loops of non-stop racing because that’s what it took Maggie to become the world champion of the Back yard Ultra 2.5 days, 60hrs, 250 miles frame it what ever way you want, it was an outstanding performance and one that has really catapulted Maggie into the lime light in the world of Ultra running, not that she is new to the sport competing in many 100 mile races including two times player of the Barkley marathon (also created by Lazarus Lake) and USA 24hr competitor is it any wonder that she showed the guys how it was done.

A runner himself who has ran a 1:19 half marathon, 74 miles in a 12hr event, and if that isn’t impressive enough last year he walked just over 5100km (3300 miles) across America covering over a marathon a day for 126 days.

I’d just like to give a huge shout to the sponsors of this episode Atlas running their next big event is of course Last one Standing which is being held in Castleward Co.Down N.Ireland on the  15th Feb 2020.

https://www.atlasrunning.co.uk/last-one-standing

She only started running 4 years ago and since then she has ran 175 marathons with about 40% of those being ultras, this year alone she has ran five 100 mile runs not including the 200 mile Belfast to Dublin return where she was the first runner home, and remarkably the following weekend she won a 24hr event in Wicklow where she ran a staggering 118 miles.

She throws all rule books out of the window getting by with less than 4 hrs sleep a night, she follows no diet plan, loves her vodka and has four beautiful children that she has to manage whilst satisfying her running addiction.

So instead of having a short chat about the race Barry McCarrol, Choc Murphy and Ryan Carson from Slieve Gullion Runners talk everything about running focusing on the two big races over the last week The Garmin Skyline and Dublin Marathon, it turned into a bit of craic which I enjoyed recording so hope you enjoy listening, have to apologise as we had no facts and got every one's names wrong but it is what it is....hope you enjoy :) 

Check out the attached link for more information on the project. https://www.fastrunning.com/running-athletics-news/dreamrun-dublin-race-week/27606

The winner is the runner who gets the furthest away with the distance being measured as the crow flies, not only did Michael win the event but he managed to make it past the 100 mile mark in treacherous conditions.

What some people may not know is that Gillian is a late comer to the sport where she started on the roads gracing an amazing marathon time of 3:03, but its the mountains where she feels most alive, quite possible one of the most determined mountain runners I've had the pleasure of meeting.

This really is just a bit of Ultra banter with Paddy seconds from death last year after a bad accident at work and Owen who sees large wolves with red beady eyes chasing in him during a 100 mile race.

'The seed knew in order to grow it had to be dropped in dirt, covered in darkness, and struggle to reach the light'

He is one of the most focused runners that I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and after a few rocky starts he’s aiming on Dublin Marathon this year to show his true colours, he’s not shy from putting in the work topping 140 miles a week in training and I’m excited for him coming into the race next month.

'Love the game more than the glory, the process more than the prize, and the fight more than the finish.’

In this episode Aaron talks to us about his adventures has he competes in the Bigfoot 200 which is the first race in a series of three 200 mile races known as The Triple Crown which are held in 3 consecutive months, Aug, Sept & Oct.

Aaron is familiar with hard races competing in races such as CCC TDS & UTMB, as well as completing the Rankin Round in both directions but the Bigfoot 200 by far has been his biggest challenge.

He's not long home from the Comrades Ultra up course, and has competed in the most spectacular ultra the Two Oceans.

In this episode we discuss his journey in search of the Seven Continents having completed Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America

She hasn't been running for that long but continues to go from strength to strength taking numerous podiums, and is often seen testing the best runners on the mountain scene. 

They say a true challenge is one that completion is never guaranteed, and with only 24hrs to traverse all of the Mourne mountain peaks over 400m it would take a lot of skill and luck to complete the 90km course, with over 6500m of ascent strong navigation skills would be required to ensure success.

The team was made up of Sean Nickell the key lead out man and navigator who has more miles under his belt than the proclaimers, Marty ‘Chipper’ Campbell and Barry McCarroll all three of which had competed in races such as the 108 mile Donegal Hero, Keith Clarke Deca-Ironman and Mark Weir who’s experience racing through the Mournes would become invaluable.

We take a different angle this week and sit with the entire team for an open group discussion on what it takes to succeed in Denis Rankin Challenge, I hope you enjoy my being back on the podcast, if so why not drop us a line on our face book page and let us know.

If that wasn’t enough tomorrow the 30th June she finishes a lap of honour where she completes the same course in the opposite direction on her bike, with her birthday a couple of days ago she is the beautiful age of 67 showing the age really is just a number.

Running isn’t new to Mary, she is the only women to have completed all 39 of the Dublin Marathon’s, gracing a pb of 2:57, winner of the Wicklow way and finisher of iconic races such as Boston and Marathon Des Sables.

She graces a marathon time of 2:36:14 and just two weeks ago she came third in the world most iconic Ultra Marathon The Comrades on the up course in an incredible time of 6:24:12 on the 87Km course.

Caitriona has had her knock backs like every great runner, but her determination and self belief to succeed is what sets her apart from most.

Failure is a big part of success, take the lesson and keep moving forward, those that achieve are those that don't give up.

Have to apologise as this episode wasn't edited due to time constraints, but hope you take some learning from it and enjoy.

https://ugandamarathon.com/register/   

https://www.facebook.com/UgandaMarathon/

It was this year that Patrick was diagnosed with Parkinson's and yet his still managed to qualify and compete in the worlds Masters in Malaga in Sept 2018, in this podcast Patrick talks about how sport has helped him to manage his condition so that he can lead a fulfilled life.

2014 V50

200 25.66 1st Scottish Masters' Championships  200 25.94 1st Athletics Ireland Masters' Championships  400 57.45 1st Scottish Athletics Masters' Championships  400 57.47 1st Scottish Masters' Championships  400 58.05 1st Athletics Ireland Masters' Championships

An amazing story of strength, determination and focus, I always believe that you should never say never when the choice to do something is in your hands, stay strong guys keep the training up, as not only is it influencing those around you but its also making your body strong to take you through times of hardship.

I took part in the 5k myself which was a great experience which consisted of 6 loops inside the prison, and had an opportunity to get to talk several people before and after the event.

You couldn’t help but get a strong sense that something really good was happening here, there is no doubt in my mind that this helps with engagement, relationship building, mental health and rehabilitation.

Most of you know the freedom that our sport brings us, in prison your body and mind can struggle being in a confined space, you have to question if this creates a path to a better life, but giving the inmates purpose and possibility might just create that slight change in direction which could lead to a totally different destination in life.

I was quite intrigued with the journey that everyone was taking during the challenge, we had staff helping inmates, inmates helping staff, and numerous personal journeys going on, I felt humbled by the experience and hope that many more prisons adopt a similar approach. Hope you enjoy this interesting episode as much as I did....

In this episode Laura discusses the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and how important it is to maintain a positive mindset no matter what your situation....keep focused on the things you can do, and good things will happen.

But that's only part of the story Mark only really took up running in 2012 when he thought it might be a good idea to run a marathon, he lost four stone and moved up through the ranks in a very short period of time to become one of Ireland's best club and International runners, in this podcast we hear how consistency is the key, truly is a great listen.

In this episode we breakdown last week’s Tunnel Ultra where Bobbie was the last one to DNF to finish in 3rd place having completed 189 miles, only 20 loops from the finish in arguably the hardest mental race in the UK & Ireland.

Sean hadn’t long crossed the finish line in Boston in 2013 when the two bombs went off, in this episode Sean talks us through his experience of the event and the chaos that it caused killing 3 people.

What makes this remarkable is the fact Catherine registered to support a friend who pulled out the day before with sickness and then she went on to win the race which shows what the body and mind can actually do once challenged.

LoS is a great race held at Castleward by the Atlas crew Sammy and Adrian Daye which was won this year by Peter Cromie who completed 172.2 miles, with Andy Persson pushing him to the last lap.

Catherine has really recoloured her life through running, I hope you enjoy this general chat about the race which I feel drawn to next year.

He was there when it happened, Boston 2018 where he amazingly ran another sub 3 marathon in the worst possible weather conditions that could be thrown at you during a race.

His Sub 2:45 time has opened the door to London 2019 where he has set the goal of running a world record for the fastest marathon time dressed as a letterbox.

So why would you do such a crazy challenge well there is a very good reason, Matthew is hoping that through his race that he will bring awareness and help to raise funds for Dementia.

This is a serious disease that can effect a third of the elderly population, there is a stigma around this which Matthew is hoping to break down as awareness often leads to prevention.

You can support Matthew by helping his London Fundraiser for Dementia on the following link; https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=postbox&pageUrl=1&fbclid=IwAR3NKkYDf65JphW3lHhgoZPMQzVv0RWE9fbf_yQR5kjR7bT3iPo5HJlyhf4

In this episode we ask the question why try and make sport fair if you have genetic advantages, we creep around the world of illegal enhancements in the world of athletics, and we learn what its like to live with the most common genetic and life shorting disease Cystic Fibrosis.

Check out his blogs, and clinic...

https://www.evanscully.com/

https://www.scullytherapyclinic.com/

It's all about the craic with Eileen, there is never a dull moment when she is around.....

I'm not sure there's to many have ran 100 miles or 10 marathons in 10 days at the age of 68.

I loved this Podcast with Paul sometimes you just need to forget training plans and just run for the love it, you may be surprised how far you get.

Didn't really cut this so hope it comes across well just the way it is, I enjoyed listening to Paul's journey...

Johnny also talks about the sense of achievement but also the pain and agony of competing in the Belfast to Dublin 107 mile endurance race.

Milo has helped introduce countless people into the world of triathlon including myself so I’m hoping that this episode plants a seed and inspires you to take to the water and bike before your run.

If you haven't already download the podbean app and follow The Inspirational Runners podcast to find out,and if you enjoy the podcast why not leave a comment!

World record holder for the fastest crossing of Ireland on Foot, 550km running from Mizen Head to Malin Head in 3 days, 3 hours, 47 minutes breaking the previous record by more than 11hrs. 24 hour Irish running record (248.4km/154.34m), 48 hour Irish road running record (343km/213m) and 6 day Irish running record (815km/506m)

He has also set a number of course records on some of the most gruelling events on the planet, one that rises above the rest is the Spine which is descriped as the hardest Ultra race in Britain which consists of a 268 mile race along the Pennine way, not only did he set a new record but he beat the previous best by more than 15hrs.

He has too many podiums and first places to mention but to of his favourite by his own admission are 2nd place veteran in UTMB and 5th placed in the 24hour WORLD championships.

Let not forget that he is also the first Irish competitor to gain entry into the notorious Barkley marathon, remarkable story not to be missed.

Its a great podcast identifying how hard it is to get your body into form when it counts the most, Paul has had it far from easy over the years with injury and controversy but he’s managed to keep grinding and pumping out results that makes him one of Ireland’s most accomplished runners.

PB Profile.... 1500 m (3:50) 5000m (14:05) 10K (28:32) 10 Mile (48:21) Half Marathon (1:02:10) Marathon (2:15:30)

In this episode Brian talks about how he battles the four elements of Extreme Heat, Cold, Altitude and Humidity, this includes a 340 mile race across Canada in the depth of winter being tracked by wolves, I kid you not...

Again I did no prep for this podcast Brian turned up at the door and we just let it rock, so you really do get a raw interview, and I’ve learnt this is my style so excuse any gremlins during the recording.

I learnt a lot about long distance racing from listening to this so my advice would be to lay back and enjoy this podcast with no distractions.

I have watched Zak scale the Mourne Mountains during the Hill & Dales taking many wins so its no surprise to me that he is becoming one of Ireland's best mountain runners.

He started off his young career competing on horseback and he’s taken many podiums on both the road and xc bike, but his transition into mountain running has catapulted him into the International mountain scene taking 13th place in the recent Mountain Running World Cup and a recent 7th in Snowdon which was the best time taken by someone from Ireland since his coach Rich. Rodgers held the record in 1991.

Zak has a lot to offer the mountain scene, a natural talent but he works hard for his success!

Her love for life and the sport is infectious, a great role model for the world of Irish athletics and its up and coming talent.

This is another good podcast to learn how to either come back from injury or build a good base before launching yourself into pace, he finished 9th in the Dublin half marathon out of 9500 runners coming in around 1:14 minutes after only returning back to running 6 months earlier.

In this episode we hear what’s its like to be the first Irish man home in this years Dublin Marathon, Micks home town with an amazing time of 2:15:58 the fastest time by an Irish man in Dublin in 19 years.

The marathon national title was a nice addition to his XC, 10k and half marathon national titles which strengthens his position as one of Ireland's greatest runners.

'He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life' Muhammed Ali

Finbar truly is an amazing athlete only running around 30km a week along with his run, bike, and conditioning training to produce results that I could on dream of.

We didn’t talk about his local podiums but he first came on to my radar when he won the Dublin Triathlon in Sept 18 one of many amazing triumphs with a field of over 600 triathletes.

In this episode Ian breaks down some of his recent races including what it takes to hold the Donard Race Record along with the competition faced in the world championships, we talk about the complex topic of nutrition and what it takes to compete at the highest level of the sport.

There is an ever growing social aspect to running, its a great way to meet new people and friends, it also can open the door to years of experience and ideas to help you with your own progression and sometimes it just opens some space to have great fun with like minded people.

In this episode we break down the three 26 extreme ultras to determine which is the most difficult, and discussed the Last One Standing event in Castleward the week before the race, where limits don’t exist.

At the age of 96 he’s a great advocate for looking after yourself and working hard, it was a real joy just being in his presence and sharing some of his stories although I’m sure he has many more wrapped up waiting to be shared.

I’ve tried to bring a lot of diversity in to the podcast.....a lot of people haven’t yet made the leap towards podcasts and can’t help feeling I’m not reaching far enough so if your enjoying it why not do me a favour and share it with your friends and help to share the inspiration

His Mountaineering success is endless however there are a few of his achievements that I found fascinating, he’s reach the summit of Everest 8 Times, been the first to summit many mountains including Burke Khan which has a dangerous snow laden ridge at the summit, and he was also the only Irish man to have successfully climbed K2 last year which won him the joint man of year award by the outsider magazine last month.

Wesley is a runner on form, in this podcast I’ve tried to pull out the secret formula that surrounds his phenomenal progression, part of Paul Pollock's DreamRunDublin team it was interesting to hear how his training was structured.

The key message in this podcast is that its never too late to achieve your best, you might just surprise yourself how far a bit of self belief and focus will take you...

This truly is a compelling story of being left behind, rising up against all odds and realising a dream, no matter how the fairy tale appeals nothing worth while in life comes easy, the picture on the front of the book may draw a dream like lifestyle but as we all know to well the chapters quite often read a different story.

As Banjo pointed out everyone has their own Everest, I’m glad I can look back over the last few years and identify those specific moments in my life where I’ve reached my own summits, hope you enjoyed this double feature, set goals, believe in yourself and no matter what obstacles you face just find a way....

I was intrigued by this unique race and the history it derived from, running solo to nowhere must take a lot of self motivation and mental strength which Sean consistently demonstrates in abundance.

What is it that drives us to explore our potential, there’s no doubt Sean is on a quest to find out how far he can push his body and mind, a superb athlete who has also run over 100 marathons gracing a pb of 3:09min.

From Dundalk County Louth Laura is an amazing adventure racer who has taken countless podiums and is the adventure race series winner of 2018 she has amazing energy and enthusiasm which comes across in this podcast she even cycled 70k to my house to record this episode before cycling back home. I was interested in how Laura integrates Yoga into her training regime which contributes to her success, you can join Laura during one of her Yoga sessions by contacting her through her Facebook page.

In this episode we hear what it takes to complete a triple Ironman which  consists of a  7.2 mile swim 336 mile bike and a 78mile run, if that wasn’t enough how about a Deca Ironman which is 10 Ironman events in 10 days, and the less said about the Irish Ironman the better.... a great listen from someone who knows no limits.

Catherina won four silver medals in four consecutive years in the world cross championships showing a strong consistency in her sport, making it to two Olympics including reaching the finals in Atlanta in 96.

We may never see a runner of Catherina’s Quality again in our life time, she carved out her success through the pure love of running and continues to inspire and give back to the support that she gained so much from.

Check out Rosy's Instagram page @baconfromheaven where she shares everything running.

In this episode Gerald talks about how running has helped him with his grief and how he celebrated his son Harvey’s life by running all of the world major marathons finishing in Newyork last weekend.

Finishing the world major marathons is a great achievement, I’m sure that Harvey is very proud and I hope that his courage helps to inspire you to lace up as running can help you through the most difficult of times. 

Never will you meet a nicer person that genuinely wants to do good in the world, he’s helped introduce a lot of runners into Park run through the couch to 5k and is the current race director of Bangor Parkrun which hosts 250 – 300 runners every sat morning.

In Ivan’s wise words “Improvise, Adapt and Overcome”.

There's a saying that if you want to run enter a 10k if you want to change your life run a marathon, its never to late to change the direction of your sails.

Cathy has become a great role model for never giving up on yourself.

I think this woman would be the first to run a marathon on Mars if registration opened, a neighbour and close friend the one and only Barbara Fleming Ovens more commonly known as Babs :)

Babs loves to leave her foot prints where no other has walked.....

Any wonder he has won his clubs Outstanding Achievement three years on the trot, a good listen for anyone running Belfast tomorrow.

Natty lifts everyone she comes in contact with, a beam of light in the dark, always challenging her own limits, a true inspiration within the running community.

Qoute "Its not about you, its not about me, its about the big picture"