Profile

Name: Ashley Gilbert

Occupation: Director & Personal Trainer

Home Town: Dereham, Norfolk

Questions

What is your running background?

Raised a runner, it’s been part of my life for as long as I can remember. As
a teenager, all I wanted to do was run fast. I competed over 400m and 800m, becoming County Champion in the latter with a PB of exactly two minutes. I also competed at national level in indoor athletics and the National Schools Cross Country Championships.

At university I spent three years competing in the North Staffordshire Cross Country League and the BUCS Cross Country Championships. In 2006, I ticked off my first marathon at the London Marathon. Looking back, I had absolutely no idea where that finish line would eventually lead me.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

I stepped into this ultra-running dream out of raw curiosity; just to see how far I could run? I can’t remember much about my first ultra, but I’ll never forget it –
The Norfolk Coastal 100km, October 2012 – It hurt, but I survived, and the journey began.

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

With more than 1,600 miles completed at Centurion Running events, there’s a very good chance you’ll bump into me at one of their races at least once every year – whether that be running, crewing or volunteering.

I’m based in Norfolk, so if there’s an ultra happening somewhere around East Anglia, there’s every chance I’ll be there.

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

Finishing Spartathlon in 2022 completely changed the direction of my running. Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to win a number of races around East Anglia, including most-recently Peddars Way 48 in 2026.
Other highlights include finishing the Winter Downs 200 in both 2023 and 2024, 120 Miles at Battersea 24 in 2023, back-to-back victories at Ely Ultra 66km in 2024 and 2025, and first place at the Winter Warrior 50km 2025.
This year I ran the Suffolk Backyard Ultra, recording a DNF after 33 yards.

What was your hardest race experience?

Honestly, I’m not sure there’s one race that stands out as the hardest physically. Over the past 12 months I’ve completed two Backyard Ultras and genuinely loved both experiences. 

This year’s Suffolk Backyard, however, probably taught me the biggest lesson of my running journey.

I learnt a huge amount about working with a crew, but I also discovered how quickly an ultra can unravel when you make a few poor decisions. Mid-race I changed my environment, drifted away from my routine and, ultimately, lost my head.

It took me a couple of weeks to process the disappointment, and looking back it was probably one of the most valuable experiences I’ve had as a runner who wants to continuously improve.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

The difference between strategy and reality is something I’ve improved massively since 2022. My race strategy now starts months before I even stand on the start line.

On race day I’m far calmer, far more patient and much more in control of my emotions. I arrive with confidence in the work I’ve done; while also understanding there’s a very fine line between confidence and cockiness. I’ll still start a little too fast but I wouldn’t want to race any other way!

What does a typical training week look like?

Monday to Thursday you’ll usually find me squeezing treadmill miles in between coaching clients. Friday is normally a “school run” run before afternoon pick-up. Saturday is for trails whenever possible, while Sunday is reserved for what I still call the “Church of the Long Run.”

At the moment I’m running every day, averaging around 50-60 easy-paced miles each week. Every day a fine balance of family excitement, business professionalism, and athlete amateurism.

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

Run your own race.

The work starts long before race day, so put the work in, stay patient, trust your training, keep your head up and your heart full. Don’t get dragged into someone else’s race before yours has even started.

Can you tell us one interesting fact about yourself?

A little-known fact: I once called time on my own race to help a runner in desperate need. That runner? The man, the legend, Sir Ian Thomas.

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

Yes, in 2022 –  32 Hours 12 Minutes – 42nd

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race?

This year I’ll be sharing the incredible experience with my wife Jen; and above all else this means the most to me. As before, I just want to take it all in – but this time share it with her. I’m excited about meeting the rest of the team and their crews, and obviously the unique and iconic finish-line; it’s been visualised, talked about, and the core purpose of every run since the last time. A PB would top it off!

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

Honestly, the distance and the cut-offs still make me nervous, but I know what’s coming and I genuinely can’t wait to get started!

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

Preparations started the moment my application went in. Now it’s all about the specifics: plenty of tarmac, some good hills, and regular sauna sessions throughout August and September. I was coached by the legend David Bone in 2022, and I won’t be straying too far from that blueprint this time round.

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

Yes. My wife Jen and good friend Adrian will both be crewing me.