Name: Andrew McKillop

Occupation: Surveyor

Home Town: St Albans

Questions

What is your running background?

I’ve always played sport but as my undistinguished football career came to a close, I took up running more seriously, enjoying anything from 5kms to marathons.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

Every year my running club put on a 12hr, 4mile looped event that goes within 400m of my front door. Back in 2016 it was my gateway drug.

When or where (at which events) are we most likely to see you?

Centurion Thames Path or Lakeland 100, I find that there are numerous transferable skills between the two courses !

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

It’s difficult to pick a one off event but for longevity it would be 5 successful completions of the Lakeland 100.  Turning up in various states of experience, fitness, preparedness and weathers, and making it round each time.

What was your hardest experience?

Being injured, hopefully behind me, but tougher than any hills, heat or distance I’ve run.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

I try to balance my expectations with my abilities.  I’ve not really cracked that yet though.

What does a typical training week look like?

Probably more marathon specific and a little less volume than I’d like lately but on the bright side, my legs are fresh.

What one tip would you pass onto people running an Ultra marathon for the first time?

When it gets tough, as it likely will, just take a moment to reflect how fortunate it is to be there.

Tell us one interesting fact about you?

I once completed the Glen Nevis “Lilo” River Race. Billed as an extremely dangerous event with certain casualties, my lilo suffered a catastrophic puncture in the later stages.

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

Yes Twice

How did you get on?

Delighted to have finished back in 2021. For the record, 34hrs 38mins 18s

2023 32:21

What tip would you pass on to those taking part for the first time?

Try not to be overwhelmed by all the incredible athletes you’ll be rubbing shoulders with. You’ve qualified to be here, you’re qualified to finish it.

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race?

Honestly, just about everything.  

What are you not looking forward to during the Spartathlon race?

Nothing, just glad to be there.

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

Living like a monk for all those marginal gains and sitting in a sauna.

Will you be bringing any support crew to the race? (If so, please introduce them briefly)

If I’m to get to Sparta this year I’ll need an elite crew. Step forward Rob and Chrissy P.