Name: Matthew Blackburn

Occupation: Site manager, Site carpenter / office fitter, Property management. 

Home Town: New Mills

Questions

What is your running background?

In 2012 I signed up to a marathon thinking it would be a one off and a good way to get some focus. 12 years later, here we are.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

3 years after my first marathon. I think I was keen to test myself.

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

Probably find me running around in a circle somewhere in Europe. Or running or crewing at the Suffolk Backyard. 

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

2 Spartathlon finishes. (2018, 2019)

My recent British Backyard record. 48hr British age group record. 2 x 48hr race wins. Suffolk Backyard 2021. Big’s Backyard. 

What was your hardest experience?

Tough question. I’ve had some rough moments in recent times but Spartathlon 2019 may be in the lead for prolonged suffering. I felt horrendous for most of the race, I was struggling to eat and constantly vomiting. Thought my race was over after the mountain.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

Stay relaxed but expect the worst. Longer races I like to run by feel. Break the race down into stages.

What does a typical training week look like?

Plenty of plodding. Mileage depends on workload. Mix of terrain. A bit of strength work and a yoga class once a week. 

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

Stick with it as it might take you a few races to find your groove. Even a stinker of a race will provide invaluable experience. 

Tell us one interesting fact about you?

I was a regular sparring partner of former boxing world champion Anthony Crolla when we were both 18.

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

Yes

How did you get on at Spartathlon?

2018 with cyclone Zorba – 29.48

2019 A little hot – 35.35

What tip would you pass on to those taking part for the first time?
Just do what you’ve done to get you to the race and enjoy the whole experience, such a great race. Maybe check out previous runners blogs.

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race?

Meeting with friends old and new. Experiencing the race with my wife Vedrana for the third time and friends/crew members for the first time.  Also the Sparta beer mile with Rob P.

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

The heat if it’s a hot one.

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

Get off the trails and onto the road.  For the first time I’ve booked some heat chamber sessions before I fly out.

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

My wife Vedrana aka the secret weapon. With the dream team of friends Kirsty and Oli, who are first timers to Spartathlon, and the southern softie Graeme Boxall, who has a lot of experience crewing the race a few times and we actually crewed together for James Ellis in 2022.