Name: Julian Brainhead

Occupation: Vet

Home Town: Bungay, Norfolk:

Questions

What is your running background?

It started in 1998. On the spur of a moment a friend and I ran up a mountain, leaving the rest of our group to catch the train. We got to the top first, which surprised everyone. The rest of our friends were sceptical – they thought we must have cadged a lift – so we agreed to enter the London Marathon ballot to prove our running abilities. Fortunately, everyone except me got a place in the race, which meant I didn’t actually have to run it.
It took another seven years before I entered a local 5 km fun run which somehow then led to ultrarunning.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

My brother bought two entries to a 50-mile mountain race in Norway. We ran it together and I didn’t think it was ever going to end. Although we crossed the finish line together, my official time was 1 second less than my brother’s, proving categorically that I was a faster runner than him. Until he beat me the next time.

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

Small, low-key events. Hence Spartathlon.

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

I am still running, and continuing to improve, which I think are good achievements. I completed all three canal races GUCR, KACR and LLCR in the summer of 2021. I’ve done various other bits and bobs since including 24-hour track events and some 100ish milers.

What was your hardest experience?

KACR (London to Bristol, 145 miles), not made easier by staying in a windowless hostel the night before during a heatwave.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

Set an over-optimistic target and fail to reach it.

What does a typical training week look like?

I aim for consistency in training rather than chasing huge mileage. This means a mix of medium and long runs and, for variety, one track session a week at my local club.

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

Start slow, eat more often. Remember to enjoy it at the time as type-2 fun isn’t guaranteed.

Tell us one interesting fact about you?

I like making things that sometimes turn out to be useful.

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

No

How did you get on?

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 end. Which will hopefully come at the end.

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

The initial pace, the heat, missing a turning, and having to work in kilometres.

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

Consistency, gradually increasing the mileage, running in heat,

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

No