Name: Chloe Brooks

Occupation: Researcher

Home Town: Leeds

Questions

What is your running background?

I’ve only been running for about five years, I didn’t enjoy running at all when I was younger and at school.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

I watched a documentary the Marathon des Sables and thought it looked fun so promptly signed up, despite not being a runner at the time. Had an amazing time and heard about all these other ultras people had done.

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

The fab punk panther events are local to me so I try an either run or marshal at them.

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

All 6 of my canal medals are special to me including my canalslam in 2022 and my LLCR win.
Also 2023 where I completed the Thames Ring, Summer Spine, UTMB, and then getting a Sparta qualifier at Barcelona 24 hour.

What was your hardest experience?

Same as the above, it’s the medals I’ve really have to earn that mean the most. Probably though the “summer” spine where my feet were wrecked by 50 miles in and realising I still had 200+ miles left to go on them.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

Start slow and run by feel, fuel often, smile, and just keep moving.

What does a typical training week look like?

Normally a mix of easy runs, hills, intervals and a long run. I only run five days a week which surprises some people. I enjoy my yoga too.

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

A little bit of self-belief and lot of determination can get you a long way. And most importantly, enjoy it.

Tell us one interesting fact about you?

I once lived in Khartoum, Sudan for a bit. Sadly all the heat adaptations are long gone!

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

No

How did you get on at Spartathlon?

N/A

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

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race?

The challenge of the cut-offs. And being part of this amazing team of course.

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

The challenge of the cut-offs.

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

Less racing! I was, however, lucky enough to run Western States this year so that should be good experience for the heat and hills. I’m fortunate to be coached by fellow team member Wendy and know she will get me in the in best possible state for the start line.

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

No