Your Name:   Jim Rogers

Occupation: University Lecturer

Home Town: Hull

Twitter Account: 24hourrunner

Runners Questions

What is your running background? Took up running in the year after the first London marathon in 1981. Had many years of running road marathons then got into fell running and trail running. Completed a lot of long distance trail and off road races. Got into 24 racing as my club organised one of only two in the UK in Hull. Was fortunate to get the opportunity to compete for England and GB a number of times in 24 hour events at European, Commonwealth and World level, winning medals in both European and Commonwealth events.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why? My club regularly took part in the 40 mile Lyke Wake Race on the North York Moors and I was invited to go along and have a go. I loved it from the start.

When or where (at which events) are we most likely to see you? LDWA events in the North of England

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

Marathon PB ( 1984) 2.29

Completing a Bob Graham Round

My PB in a 24 hour race- completing 151 miles.

What events do you have planned for 2015 up to Spartathlon?

1.Viking Way Race – April 2016 – 147 miles – entire length of Viking Way Long distance footpath- Humber Bridge to Oakham

2. South Downs 100 – June 2016

3. Joss Naylor Challenge – July 2016

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra? Start slowly; take regular walking breaks; make sure to eat and drink regularly.

What does a typical training week look like? Varies a lot depending on targets

What one tip would you pass onto people running an Ultra marathon for the first time? Slow down in the early part and take some walking breaks.

Spartathlon Questions

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before? No.

 

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race? Finishing!

What are you not looking forward to during the Spartathlon race? Don’t want to think about that……

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race? My usual ultra training regime plus careful study of the conditions of the Spartathlon and discussion with those who have done it previously.

Will you be bringing any support crew to the race? No