Name: Nick Gkikas

Occupation: Cockpit Engineer

Home Town: Tricky question; the answer probably lies between Kythnos and Chorley.

Questions

What is your running background?

I started jogging in 2005 when my Master’s studies allowed no meaningful time for any other form of exercise.
I signed up for the Athens Classic Marathon in 2010 because it was the 2500 anniversary from the eponymous battle that started it all. I thought it was a one-off, but then I got hooked like everyone else here.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

Foremost, I am a fan of the sport. Competing in Ultra Marathon Distance footraces was always alien to me, but following the sport was something I’ve been doing since Kouros was winning Spartathlon and Sydney- Melbourne. After reading Ayjut Celikbas’ Spartathlon account in 2014, I felt I should try entering the Wall (Hadrian’s) in 2015, which was won by Ian Hammett if I am not mistaken. I then tried the inaugural Endure 24 Leeds, the following year. The result gave me the confidence that maybe one day I’ll be able to qualify for the
ballot (never AQ) for Spartathlon. I’ve done the Canals in the UK and a couple of other races in Greece since then, one of which resulted in a place in last year’s ballot (unsuccessful))

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

Probably in Greece for Ultras (great value for money, still) or Northwest England for Triathlons and Fells.

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

I don’t think I have any individual achievement worth celebrating; if you’re looking for my coping strategies whenever I have a bad day in the office or at home, I glance at my Athens Marathon Finisher’s complete medal collection since 2010. But then, Ian here, has got the same number of Spartathlon finishes…

What was your hardest experience?

The 2010 Classic (Athens) Marathon! I never had to dig so deep in my life, since then; even finishing GUCR with a hip injury and having to pick my youngest from under a Canal boat in 2019 on the way to Little Venice, running the Olympian Race in 38C in July 2021 (postponed three times due to Covid), felt much more manageable than my first footrace from Marathon – which was also the first time I pinned a number on for any distance.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

Nowadays, I try to start with the same level of effort as I plan to finish. Easier said than done. Also, not very suitable for Spartathlon.

What does a typical training week look like?

With family and the vain of a career in scope, I ended up turning my daily commute into my training regime. So I try to run or ride anywhere I don’t need to take my children in a car. For Spartathlon, however, I asked the support of a local coach who knows the course well. The plan I follow preparing for Spartathlon is almost the opposite of the plan that brought me here.

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

“I do not wish you luck, because if you prepared for this, you don’t need it; and if you have not prepared for this, then luck will be of no use”

Tell us one interesting fact about you?

I have dot-watched most of you during the last decade or so; I admire anyone in this round, as much as athletics fans admire Usain Bolt or Cycling fans admire Pogacar.

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?

EVERYTHING x

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

Saturday afternoon; I’m more fatigued at 3pm than at 3am. Plus the anticipated heat will not help

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

As mentioned, I joined a local coach, who is challenging my previous training approach. I have actually reduced my weekly mileage dramatically, while challenging my body and mind more than I’ve done in many years.

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

I hope so! I have my best mate from my school days in Greece, my own “Nick Papageorge”, alongside my training partner joining in.