About this episode

Simon Withers shares insights on ultra running, including his experiences and strategies from recent races.

In this episode we sit down with South Coast ultra runner Simon Withers, one of the rising stars of the UK ultra running scene. Fresh from a gritty 7th place finish at the South Downs Way 100, Simon reflects on racing one of the UK's most competitive 100-mile ultras, sharing his pacing strategy, nutrition, mindset, and what it takes to perform over such a long day on the trails. We also discuss his outstanding recent results, including 3rd place at the Arc of Attrition 2025 and 2nd place at the Arc of Attrition 2026, and how his performances have continued to improve year after year. Along the way, Simon shares lessons learned from years of ultra running, the mistakes that have shaped him as an athlete, what keeps him motivated to keep returning to the start line, and some of the highs, lows and failures that every ultra runner can relate to. Plus, we put Simon through our regular features: icebreakers, Truth or Lie, and the quickfire round. Whether you're training for your first ultra marathon, tackling a 100 miler, or simply love trail running, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest insights from one of the South's toughest endurance athletes. ⁠Coaching…

Sponsors

Protein Rebel, Beta Outdoor Sports

More episodes of Trails, Tales, and Fails - An Ultra Running Podcast

• Western States 100: Inside America's Most Iconic Ultra with Lee Dunstall & Rebecca Parker · July 13, 2026 · 1h 14m
• Helen Newman | Winning the Lake District Sky Race, Sky Running & Ultra Marathon Training · July 6, 2026 · 1h 18m
• James Yeardley's Montane Summer Spine Race | 275 Miles on the Pennine Way · June 23, 2026 · 1h 15m

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