Ian Williams: The marathoner born with Spina Bifida

About this episode

Ian Williams shares his inspiring journey as a marathon runner born with spina bifida and discusses the importance of community in running.

Ian Williams was born with spina bifida myelomeningocele, a severe form of the condition. At the time, outcomes were very uncertain, with a survival rate of about 70% and only around 15% of those born with the condition going on to walk unaided - let alone run. Thanks to an operation in the early weeks of his life, and despite a risky school time pursuit of rugby, Ian bucked that trend and over the last 22 years has completed four marathons and two ultramarathons - including the London Marathon twice. His journey is demonstrated not only by the races he has completed, but by a scar on the base of his spine that tells the story of the challenges he has overcome. But Ian's story isn't confined to just his own achievements. In 2004, he founded Fetcheveryone , an independent UK running community which has more than 100,000 users today. In a world of Strava and Instagram influencers, it is a reminder that running is ultimately about community. In this episode, we speak to Ian about the joys of running the 100m at school, taking part in events as varied as the London Marathon and Race to Meriden, and why the authentic nature of Fetcheveryone works... Join the Fetcheveryone community…

People in this episode

Hosts: Michelle Lewis, Craig Lewis

Guest: Ian Williams

Topics covered

• spina bifida
• marathon running
• community in running
• personal achievement
• inspiration

Keywords

• spina bifida
• marathon
• ultramarathon
• Fetcheveryone
• running community
• inspiration
• personal story

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Fetcheveryone, Strava, Instagram

Places: UK

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