Profile

Name: Sergey Ionov

Occupation: Trader

Home Town: London

Questions

What is your running background?

I started running in 2011, the same year I started working to keep in shape and my first target was to train for the marathon which was scheduled in 6 weeks. First run I could not finish 5km without walking but the progress started building up fast.

When did you first start running Ultra marathons and why?

My first ultra marathon was 100km London to Brighton after hearing that one of my colleagues who is a very good runner did it in close to 10 hours, it turned out not as terrible as I thought and I actually quite enjoyed it – the challenge, the nature, all the people were very friendly. I also realised that I can perform relatively well and my competitive nature woke up.

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

Running along Thames is my training at the weekend. In terms of events my favourite are probably one of the Thames Paths runs and Grand Union Canal Race.

What are your personal key running achievements to date?

Winning Grand Union Canal in 2018 is probably at the top and finishing 3^rd at Badwater in 2021.

What was your hardest race experience?

24 hours running, I never managed to finish those but seeing people run in laps on track for 24 hours still makes me scared.

What is your typical race strategy for an ultra?

Not wasting time and keep moving.

What does a typical training week look like?

I used to run more miles but with experience I became wiser, now running more quality is always the target, one interval session, one hill session and 100-130km total volume sounds like a perfect week for me.

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

Not to be scared and not run too fast from the start, ultra marathons are more enjoyable than shorter running distances if paced well.

Can you tell us one interesting fact about yourself?

I am a relatively boring person, I love my routine, I work a lot, run a bit and spent the rest of time with my family.

Have you taken part in the Spartathlon before?

Yes, I completed it twice before.

How did you get on?

First time went well, finished in 27:27 in 2016, second time was more challenging as training was very weak that year due to very busy work schedule and I finished in 30:02.

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

Enjoy the scenery, it is a privilege to be on the start line and everyone who qualified is more than capable to complete it.

What are you looking forward to at the Spartathlon race?

Running through beautiful Greek towns and finishing in Sparta.

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

Nothing, love every moment of it!

How will you prepare specifically for the Spartathlon race?

Will try to do a couple of really long runs and continue consistent training with no injuries.

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

Yes my wife and my mum will crew me, previous races I did unsupported and from my memory support engagement is very limited at the race.