Episodes
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Every stride tells a story, and I'm excited to bring you along on a narrative that winds through three decades of running, from the exhilaration of early morning dashes to the companionship of community park runs. Running is more than just a physical act for me—it's a tapestry of experiences, woven with the threads of endurance, community, and personal growth. As I lace up for my 58th park run, I find myself reflecting on how these weekly 5Ks have unexpectedly shaped my marathon training, offering both speed and solace.
Step into my running shoes as we explore the charming trails of Black Park, a place where cinematic magic meets the grit of the runner's path. The challenges of this scenic run, coupled with a heartfelt conversation with a new park run enthusiast, remind me that the journey of a runner is as much about the social bonds formed as it is about the miles covered. Our exchange will inspire you to consider the mental and social aspects that outdoor running nurtures, in contrast to the solitary pursuit of treadmill miles.
As we gear up for the races ahead and navigate minor injuries, I'll share candid tales of the mental strategies that turn the daunting prospect of a pre-dawn 10-mile run into an accomplished fact. From battling the snooze button to the rhythm of Bonnie Tyler fueling my steps, discover the unexpected joy in overcoming the urge to cut a run short. Tune in to hear how persistence, planning, and a commitment to personal milestones can turn every run into a victory, no matter the distance. Join me for these stories and more, as we celebrate the perseverance and passion that keep our feet moving forward, one exhilarating step at a time.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Every runner knows the bittersweet symphony of aching muscles and the exhilaration of crushing personal bests—it's a journey of countless steps, both literal and metaphorical. Today, I pull back the curtain on my own path through highs, lows, and the winding roads in between. From a humbling stumble to the glory of setting a new record at a local park run, I lace up and take listeners along for the ride, sharing the raw emotions that come with each stride.
Navigating the choppy waters of hereditary conditions, I offer an intimate glance into how gout and shin splints have tested my limits. It's not just about the miles I've logged, but the lifestyle shifts and home remedies that have become essential in my playbook. The healing touch of Hayling Island's retreat and the begrudging transition to treadmill training underscore the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. As for the Manchester Marathon, it's a story of perseverance, where mental fortitude plays the starring role amidst the physical demands of the 26.2-mile battleground.
As seasons change and races come and go, the anticipation of the winter half marathon looms—a tribute race to my late nan that tugs at the heartstrings. Balancing the desire to push boundaries with the wisdom of self-preservation, I muse on whether to take on the Race of the King. So, slip into your running shoes and join me; it's not just a podcast episode—it's a testament to the spirit of a runner, with every heartbeat, breath, and step.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Imagine conquering what you thought was your most demanding race, only to be blindsided by an even more relentless beast. That's exactly what happened to me with Race to the Tower – a 53-mile ultra-marathon through the undulating Cotswold Way. In this candid episode, I pull back the curtain on the raw and unvarnished truth of this epic endurance test. I compare it to my previous ultra challenges, like the Race to the Stones, and confess why, despite being shorter in distance, this one left me grappling with my every limit.
As I recount the trials of the terrain, from Gloucestershire to the majestic Broadway Tower, I also share my astonishment at the overwhelming number of applicants for this year's London Marathon and the contrasting experience of running the Manchester Marathon. This is more than just a story of physical feats; it's a tale of mental fortitude and the unyielding spirit of a marathoner. Whether you're a veteran runner or just lacing up, join me for a mix of inspiration, grit, and the inside scoop on these legendary races.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Feeling the pulse of the city and the heartbeats of runners, the London Marathon unfolded with stories that moved us beyond the miles. As I recount the event's emotional spectrum, I can't help but feel a part of it, even though my running shoes didn't hit the pavement this time around. We pay homage to the remarkable Kelvin Kipton, whose absence left a profound silence, and celebrate the EastEnders duo Jay and Honey, who blurred the lines between fiction and reality for a noble cause. The episode is a tribute to the wheelchair racers, elite contenders, and the countless charity runners who embody the marathon's enduring spirit.
Stepping into the well-worn sneakers of a friend, we navigate the meticulous preparation for the London Marathon, all for the fight against multiple sclerosis. Every stride of the journey, from carb-loading science to the infamous 'wall,' is laid bare, offering a peek into a runner's psyche. The marvels of technology draw us into the race, allowing us to cheer and agonize in real-time as we track each fluctuating pace and witness the tenacity of human resilience across those storied 26.2 miles.
Crossing the finish line is where agony meets ecstasy. I bare my soul over one of my slowest yet most cherished marathon completions, a testament to the sheer willpower that defines this pursuit. And as I reminisce about my recent parkrun success, the anticipation of returning to that starting line buzzes with promise. Stick around for this episode, where every heartbeat tells a tale of endurance, passion, and the relentless pursuit that connects us all as runners.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Every runner has a story of a race that tested their limits, and this is mine from the Reading Half Marathon—a true tale of grit, wit, and a surprising twist. Battling back from injury with only a smattering of training under my belt, I take you through the pre-race jitters, the comedic chaos of coordinating with friends amidst a sea of runners, and the strategic decisions that shaped my journey to the finish line. The nerves are real, the bathroom lines are longer, and the camaraderie? Well, that's the heartwarming constant that makes every mile worth it.
As the starting horn blares, feel the rush of adrenaline that tempts every runner to push the pace, and join me in the mental game where each step is a negotiation between ambition and the reality of my preparation. The crowd's cheers weave through my recounting like a lifeline, pulling me over hills and through the high stakes of a personal battle with the clock. Adjusting strategies mid-race, dealing with the dreaded GPS inaccuracy, and the final sprint—this is the rollercoaster of emotions we runners strap in for, and I'm inviting you to the front row seat.
The aftermath of a race is a curious blend of exhaustion and elation, and in the wake of crossing that finish line, I delve into the post-race glow and the unavoidable lows that follow. My reflection spans the importance of pacing, listening to your body, and the alluring call of the runner's high that's got me eyeing up another half marathon just weeks away. Through it all, I keep it real—bringing you along for the highs, the lows, the lessons learned, and the undeniable urge to do it all over again. So, lace up your sneakers metaphorically, and let's hit the pavement together for an episode that's as close to the race day experience as it gets, minus the sweat and blisters.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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As I lace up for the Reading Half Marathon, the familiar dance of nerves and excitement takes hold, a feeling I've come to know as 'paranoia.' This episode peels back the curtain on a runner's mind in the throes of pre-race anxiety, balanced with the thrill of an electric finish line ahead. With limited training under my belt due to an untimely injury, I reflect on the mental gymnastics and the physical grind of tapering, all while keeping the carbs coming and my spirits high. Join me as I prepare to face the challenge head-on, honouring the distance, and fueled by the memories of past races that whisper strength with every stride.
The hills we choose to run reveal much about our determination; mine is a notorious slope that demands respect and grit. I recount my battle with it, the muddy treks, and the careful pacing – all while bearing an emotional tie to a path that winds past my late nan's final resting place. This episode isn't just about the miles clocked but the legacy that propels me forward. With each step, I share insights into my training regime the strategic art of listening to my body over technology, and how the paradoxical sluggishness of carbo-loading transforms into race day prowess.
Finally, the starting line is in sight, and it's not just about the run; it's about executing a flawless pre-race ritual. From kit organization to diet deliberation, I open up about the meticulous strategies that help keep the race jitters at bay. The episode traverses the mental landscape of pacing, from ambitious goals to the tactical distraction of mental arithmetic. It's a candid glimpse into the psyche of a runner on the brink of a half marathon – sweat, strategy, and all. So, tie your laces and tune in for a tale of perseverance, strategy, and the pure, unadulterated love of the run.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Sprint through time with me as we lace up for an epic jog down memory lane – three decades of marathon running condensed into a heart-pounding narrative of personal milestones, communal spirit, and the relentless pursuit of that ever-elusive personal best. From the trials of overcoming injuries and the triumph of crossing finish lines, this episode is a testament to the runner's journey and the sheer grit it takes to keep pushing forward. Feel the pulse of the parkrun community, and join me in the shared thrill of race day strategies that carry us over the finish line.
Navigating the muddied trails of the Beaconsfield Five Mile Run is no small feat, and I take you through the paces of my latest foray into this challenging course. Discover how camaraderie and tactical insights fuel not just the body, but the spirit, as we gear up amidst unpredictable UK weather, the discipline of staying race-ready, and the serendipity of pre-race connections. It's not just about the individual run, but the web of experiences that each of us weaves into the vast tapestry of the running community.
As we cool down from the rush of the Beckonsfield Trail Run, I reflect on the contrasts of cross-country and road races, and the bittersweet nature of sold-out events and coveted medals. The support of the community, the cheers of marshals, and the celebrations post-race are all part of the marathon experience. We might cross the finish line solo, but it's the collective energy of fellow runners, the shared stories, and the mutual understanding of the demand on our bodies that resonate long after the race is done. Grab your earbuds, stretch out those calves, and join me for a run through the rich landscape of marathon running.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Every stride tells a story, and mine is woven through the historic trails of the Race to the Stones. Episode after episode, I've chronicled the grit and beauty of marathons, but none quite like this. As I tackled the undulating 100 kilometres of the Ridgeway path, I faced not only the physical demands of the terrain but the solitude of pandemic restrictions. From the strategic approach to fueling and pacing to the mental battles at each milestone, join me as I recount the trials of preparing solo, the unexpected challenges on the course, and the pure exhilaration of crossing that finish line beneath the starry night.
Under the skies of England's ancient landscape, I found myself in a dance of endurance with the Thames at my side and the echo of footsteps on hallowed ground. The camaraderie among runners, illuminated by headlamps and shared determination, became a beacon in the nocturnal adventure of ultra-running. Hear how the stillness of the night brought unexpected reflections, the tactical use of walking poles against the relentless hills, and the surge of joy when the silhouette of the stones signalled the end of an epic journey.
As the muscles cooled and the adrenaline faded, the process of recovery laid bare the raw essence of our endeavour. While immersing in cold baths and replenishing with a protein-packed feast, the stories shared among fellow runners revealed the indelible mark left by this race. This episode is not just a recollection of the miles covered; it's an exploration of the resilience within and the community that forms when ordinary people chase extraordinary distances. So, lace up your running shoes, and let's explore the essence of ultra marathoning together.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Every stride tells a story, and this week's episode is no exception. I found myself at the starting line of 2020, primed for a personal record at the Wokingham Half Marathon, only to watch as the unfolding pandemic rewrote the race calendar. But when I traded my runner's bib for a grocery delivery badge, I discovered a new rhythm in serving the community, a heartbeat that sustained me through the silence of empty streets and cancelled events. The tale I share isn't just about the miles logged or the races lost; it's about finding meaning in the movement and connection in the unexpected roles we play.
Imagine the resolve it takes to confront a solo ultra marathon, the kind where every turn could be a wrong one, and each mile might as well be a mountain. That's the story I bring to life as I recount the muscle-searing, mind-bending journey of pushing beyond marathon distances, alone against the elements. From the adrenaline-fueled start through the punishing elevation to the battle against post-run migraines, this chapter is a raw look at the extremes of endurance. There's solidarity, too, in our shared struggles and the resolve to press on when every fibre screams to stop.
But even as the pavement lay dormant, the spirit of the marathon thrived in virtual races across the globe. I reveal the solitude and solidarity of running a backyard ultramarathon, the rush of crossing a finish line that's both everywhere and nowhere. In the echo of my footsteps, I found the camaraderie of an online community running with me, and in the chiming of my virtual medal, a testament to the unyielding human spirit that races on, even as the world holds its breath. Join me for tales of tenacity, the camaraderie of runners worldwide, and the shared triumphs that defy distance and disruption.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Every runner has that one year that stands out in their memory, a series of moments strung together by the laces of their running shoes. In 2019, my feet pounded the pavement from Wokingham to Dublin, each race carving out its own story. From setting a personal best at the Royal Berks 10k to the spine-tingling finish in a stadium at the Reading Half, join me as I share the contrasting courses, the comradery of old and new friends like Alistair and Jenny, and the electric atmosphere that fuels every runner’s soul.
As the conversation unfolds, you'll be transported to the heart of the action, from the thrill of breaking personal barriers in local 10K races to the laughter-filled, sleep-deprived excitement of the 24-hour Endure relay. This journey isn't just about the times recorded on the clock, but also about the vibrant running community that cheers us on, the rivals who push us to excel, and the unexpected friendships formed at bag drops. Hear about our team's trials and triumphs, including a night-time relay that turned into an unforgettable bonding experience under the stars.
Just when the finish line seemed clear, the world was blindsided by the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing our shared passion to a screeching halt. The pivot from celebrating race day victories to confronting a global health crisis is a stark reminder of life's unpredictable nature. Through this episode, we explore the ups and downs of a runner's journey and how, even amidst uncertainty, the spirit of the marathon carries on within us all.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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Every stride tells a story, and my 2018 was a novel of persistence, pain, and unexpected joys. From clawing back after a torn meniscus, through the swampy trials of a Beckinsfield trail run, to the Dublin Marathon's grueling 26 miles - I've weathered it all. And it's not just about the miles under my feet; it's about the people alongside me, the supporters, the friends who turned each race into more than just a run. We delve into the emotional resonance of these connections, the warmth found in cheering despite personal setbacks, and the shared triumphs and trials that bind us as a community.
This episode isn't just a recount of races; it's an homage to endurance, both of mind and body. I take you over the bridge with a hamstring screaming for respite, through the satisfaction of a modest finish with Sheena, and into the heart of the Dublin Marathon - a battle against cramps and the clock with every step. It's about setting small targets, a resilient mindset, and finding that some of the toughest races can be the most gratifying. You'll hear about the strategies that saw me through and the mental fortitude built on the run that fueled me forward.
As we wrap our running shoes and look back, it's clear that the year's true victory was in the journey itself. You'll get the inside track on how a competitive Christmas day race with my friend Helen turned into a photo finish to remember, and how Tracy's kind invitation to a family Christmas offered warmth in a season of solitude. Let's celebrate the spirit of running, the hard-fought accomplishments, and the light at the end of the tunnel that led to an unexpected twist: my following year, which became my best yet. Join me as we explore the lessons learned with every mile and the power of perseverance.Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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In the fifth episode of "30 Years of Running Marathons," Jason D loses everything and gives up on running, and even life itself. However, Facebook comes to his rescue and gives him a second chance. Jason's only option is to start again in the way he knows best. Fortunately, people come into his life and guide him back onto the running path. The road to recovery is long and challenging, and Jason has to come out of his comfort zone and face his fears. Despite the obstacles, his bravery pays off, and he receives the ultimate recognition, a prize that his late Nan would surely be proud of.
Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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In the fourth episode of "30 Years of Running Marathons," Jason D is forced to confront his own mortality as he witnesses the passing of his grandparents. This experience prompts him to question his reasons for running. Is he running for his own personal fulfillment, or has he been running for someone or something else? As he prepares for his last race in honor of his Nan, Jason faces a difficult decision. Will this be his final race, or can he find the motivation to continue running even in the face of loss and adversity?
Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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In the third episode of "30 Years of Running Marathons," Jason participates in his second half marathon after missing out on running the London Marathon. Having only started running a year ago, he has gained confidence and is eager to enter as many races as possible before starting university. His final race before college takes place around the grounds of Royal Windsor, with the Queen's residence as a stunning backdrop. Jason emerges as the King of half marathons, having completed the race, with the Queen's residence as his backdrop.
Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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In the second episode of "30 Years of Running Marathons," Jason D runs his first half marathon, which he barely manages to finish, leaving him doubting his abilities. However, just two months later, he rises from the ashes like a Phoenix and runs a marathon in an unbelievably fast time. Could this be the beginning of a long and prosperous marathon career for him?
Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
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In Episode 1 of "30 Years of Running Marathons", Jason D runs his first marathon and talks about the challenges he faced while training for this iconic race. He takes the audience on a tumultuous journey through the highs and lows of attempting to run 26 miles/42km, and shows that things are not always as they seem.
Thanks for listening. Keep on running.
