Where do live? - Blackpool, Lancashire
Age ?- 40
What attracted you to enter the Ocean Floor race? - The opportunity to go back to the Sahara coupled with the distance involved was just too good an opportunity to miss. Its always a priviledge to run in such a beautiful but brutal environment.
Do you have much experience of desert ultra marathons ? - This will be my sixth but still learning.
What initially got you interested into ultra running and what now keeps you interested ? - I used to play a lot of rugby but found my self spending more time injured than playing. I saw the MdS on Transworld Sport and thought I'd give it a go. Since then its been about testing/stretching my physical and mental boundries whilst experiencing locations that the vast majority of people don't get the opportunity to enjoy. From 2008 I've been running to raise money and awareness for the Juvenile Diabestes Research Foundation (my middle daughter is a type 1 diabetic).
Have you had any bad injuries in previous races ? - Nothing too dramatic bar very sore/blistered feet and the inevitable ligament and muscle aches and pains from covering long distances. Did however get my hydration wrong in Namibia and needed an IV to sort me out. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger!
What do your family and friends think about you entering races like this? - That clearly i'm as mad as a hatter.
Do you train much and if so how ? - For major races aim to build up to 20 hours a week, with a combination of running, walking and cycling. For hot weather races will do a proportion of that in multiple layers/a sweatsuit.
What 3 pieces of kit do you think you won't be able to do without in the race ? - sunglasses, wet wipes and ginger chews.
What do you eat in a race like this ? - Probably not as much as I should with most of my nutrition comes from drinks mix but having variety/options is key as I invariably across a long race i 'fall out' with what I'm drinking and a change is as good as a rest. If the race is supported or there are drop bags then a combination of ravioli, custard and pringles/ritz biscuits hit the spot but the one thing I really miss is fresh milk!
Whats the best memory you have in a desert ultramarathon ? - Any night time stage/stint (assuming there's no sand in the air!). With no light pollution the night sky is fantastic and if I'm not careful could find myself standing there open mouthed for hours on end!
Whats the best piece of advice you would give to someone thinking of entering the OFR ? - Don't delay! It'll be the experience of a life time - why wouldn't you want to spend time in one of the most beautiful places on the planet away from the over crowded rat race that is everyday life. Personally I can't wait!
