Runners Profile

Your Name: John Volanthen

Occupation: Network Engineer

Home Town: Bristol

 

Runners Questions

What is your running background?

I’ve run marathons for many years, and Ultras for a while now, I try to fit in at least a couple of long races per year.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

First ultra was the Likeys Beacons Ultra in 2011, I was curious.

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

I’ve run and helped at a fair few Centurion races, volunteering is almost better than running – you recover quicker.

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

Completing the Spartathlon in 2016

What was your hardest race experience?

Spartathlon 2016. I suffered greatly through the latter part of the night and had to march it in to Sparta.

What events do you have planned for 2018 up to Spartathlon?

UltraBalaton in May, plus a few local marathons between may and September.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

Steady with very few stops.

What does a typical training week look like?

Too variable for my own good. This year I’m aiming for consistent mileage from a long way out from the Spartathlon.

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

Expect to walk a lot, keep moving and be quick in checkpoints. There is no point running only to waste time standing about.

Can you tell us one interesting fact about yourself?

I only really run so I can eat more biscuits! Actively seeking sponsorship from Mcvities!

Spartathlon Questions

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

Yes, I’ve been very lucky in the Ballots.

How did you get on? 

2015 got to about 90 miles then ran out of steam

2016 completed in 34:34

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

Enjoy the honour of participating in a truly unique race.

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race?

The atmosphere, and reaching Leonidis.

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

It’s a fantastic race, what’s not to look forwards to?