Name: Phil McKenna

Occupation: Civil Servant

Home Town: Grantham

Questions

What is your running background?

I have always had an interest in running, initially mainly for fitness. I spent a decade in the
military, so running was a common pastime! I started running half-marathons in my
twenties then progressed to marathons later. Running was on pause for a couple of years
after an ACL injury (football). After a couple of operations, the surgeon told me to forget
about football / golf, so running became my primary focus.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

Just a couple of years ago, a friend asked me to do the RTTS with her. Unfortunately, she
then tested positive for Covid on the morning of the race. So, I did it alone. It was a
roasting hot day (that experience might come in handy), but I really enjoyed it and that
was me well and truly bitten by the ultra-bug!

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

I don’t really do many events; I am happy just running around the countryside where I live.
However, after coming across a Spartathlon video on YouTube, I knew I just had to try and
get into this amazing event. I have done TP100 and Self-Transcendence 24-hour (ST24). My
main reason for entering the ST24 was to try and gain a Spartathlon qualifier.

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

Sub 3 marathon – it was something I had always wanted to achieve.

What was your hardest experience?

TP100 last year – it was a bog!

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

Start conservatively and get slower (though the rather aggressive Spartathlon cut-offs
don’t really allow for this). I will be looking for some guidance from more experience team
members on pacing strategy etc. Eat and drink regularly, no matter what.

What does a typical training week look like?

70 miles a week average, peaking around 90. The bulk of my running is done at weekends
when I have more time. Treadmill on an incline in the sweatbox that is my garage is a
particular favourite! Training partners include my wife (I get less ear-ache if I bring her
along for a few miles)��, as well as my working cocker spaniel, Rodney.

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

You paid to enter so just try to enjoy it! Eat and drink regularly, (salt tablets are your
friend).

Tell us one interesting fact about you?

I spent 10 years in the British Army as a linguist.

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?

A long run in the sun, (but not too hot of course��). Meeting other like-minded people
with a similar goal. Finally, a beer – I have been dry since 1 March!

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

Apart from the stray dogs I keep reading about, nothing.

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

I am currently in Spain for some warm weather training, which will be followed by some
sauna training back home. Long back-to-back runs on tired legs have been a staple. Also, I
have tried to incorporate as many hills as possible, though that isn’t easy in Lincolnshire!

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

No