Name: Ryan Tipping

Occupation: Firefighter

Home Town: Durham

Questions

What is your running background?

I have always run to keep my fitness ticking over. Never took it seriously until I discovered ultras though. I think prior to 2015 the only official race I entered was the Great North Run.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

The MDS was my introduction into ultras in 2015. It appealed at the time as it was dubbed the toughest footrace. It left me wanting more though with a desire to push myself further.

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

Over the last couple of years my focus has been around 24hour events such as Crawley, Belfast, and Sittard. 

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

Certainly, completing Spartathlon in 2022 was a big stand out achievement for me. Also picking up a pair of 1st places in a couple of races last year felt great as I have never won any running event before. 

What was your hardest experience?

I would have to say the Spartathlon again. After the mountain section I thought my legs were just finished. I moved like a wooden man for the remainder of the race. I remember feeling like it took pure willpower to get to the end from that point. Also, this was my first time running beyond 100 miles in one sitting so the whole mental side of pushing on for that length time was all new to me as well. 

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

I tend to perform at my best when I just relax and not worry about holding rigid paces and I just try to blank out the enormity of the total race distance the best I can. Other than that, just try to keep a well-rehearsed fuelling strategy going for as long as possible with the expectation that when it inevitably doesn’t work anymore to change things up sooner rather than later. 

What does a typical training week look like?

Plenty of mileage but nothing crazy. Lots of easy runs and a few fast runs. A few hills and some trails as well. 

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

Take it easy. Don’t think of the total distance involved, break it down to bight sized chunks and enjoy the ride.

Tell us one interesting fact about you?

I have still never run an official marathon. Might do one day.

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

YES

How did you get on at Spartathlon?

The plan was always just making it to the finish within the cutoff time. I chose not to look at my watch or allow my crew to tell me any timings just so I could enjoy the race for what it was without putting any added pressure on myself to push harder just to achieve a faster time and potentially derail the whole race. In hindsight this was the right decision as I really struggled with the final third of the race. I was delighted to finish in just under 29 hours.

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

At some stage the wheels are likely to come off one way or another so embrace it when it does happen and dig deep, as it will only make the finish even sweeter. 

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race?

Seeing friends that I met at the first race once again, meeting new friends this time round and of course seeing big Leo at the finish.  

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

Chaffing

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

Lots of road running. Training in Spain closer to the race to help prepare for heat.

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

Bringing a couple of great mates who I used to work with.