He was a top cross country runner at school, didn't do much running at uni and then rediscovered the sport with a vengeance in his forties. Max Newton has gone from a half marathon, to a very fast London Marathon in 2.52 and then on to the world of ultras. Not just 50 milers but some serious beasts like a 300 miler. All the while he has been fundraising, hard. He has passed £25,000 raised and he still going. Find out how he does it in this podcast with Tim Rogers.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords

running, charity, ultra-marathons, nutrition, sponsorship

Summary

The conversation delves into the Max Newton's journey in running, particularly focusing on the motivations behind running for charity and the exploration of ultra-marathons. The speaker shares insights on the challenges faced and the importance of nutrition in long-distance running.

Takeaways

The primary motivation for running was to secure sponsorship for charity. Sponsorship for marathons diminishes after the first few races. Max discovered ultra-marathons, which were previously unknown to him. The London to Brighton run is a significant ultra-marathon of 52 miles. Nutrition plays a crucial role in preparing for long-distance runs. Completing the London to Brighton run took Max 10 and a half hours. The finish line at Brighton Beach was a rewarding experience. Charity work influences the Max's running goals. Understanding one's limits is essential in long-distance running.

Titles

Running for a Cause: The Charity Motivation Beyond Marathons: The Ultra-Running Journey

Sound bites

"a lovely finish on Brighton Beach" "I finished that in 10 and a half hours" "I discovered runs further than a marathon"

Join host Tim Rogers and Cardiff Half Marathon 2025 finisher Owen Thomas for a full post-race debrief of one of the UK’s biggest running events. They break down race highlights, runner experiences, training insights, fundraising and performance takeaways from this year’s Cardiff Half.

Whether you ran the 2025 Cardiff Half Marathon, supported from the sidelines, or are training for your next big race, this episode delivers everything you need — from race-day atmosphere and course strategy to recovery tips and inspiration for future events.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

If you'd like to run Cardiff in 2026 contact St John Ambulance Cymru about one of their charity entries. You'll need to raise £300 and they will help you every step of the way.

PODCAST NOTES

• Owen has participated in 40 to 50 races over 15 years.
• The Cardiff Half Marathon has grown significantly in size and popularity.
• Owen enjoys the camaraderie of ultra marathons despite their challenges.
• The first half of the Cardiff Half is less spectated but still enjoyable.
• Nutrition stations are well-placed throughout the race course.
• Fundraising can be effective even with a late start.
• Owen raised over £300 for St. John Ambulance Cymru through direct asks.
• The support from spectators is crucial for runners during the race.
• Training for a marathon requires more preparation than a half marathon.
• Owen recommends the Cardiff Half for first-time runners due to its supportive environment.

• Running the Cardiff Half: Owen's Journey
• Fundraising and Running: A Conversation with Owen Thomas

• "I love the Cardiff Half. It's a great race."
• "I was quite ambitious with my time."
• "I do quite like the gels."

What is an ultra? Could you run one? Glen Wareing, a veteran of 15, takes us through the world of ultra marathon running and what to look out for when choosing your first one. He also gives us his top tips for your first and it's all about planning! He talks about the events organised by GB Ultras, ranging from 50 miles to 100 miles and the big one, 215 miles across Scotland!

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords

long-distance running, 100 mile race, planning, nutrition, pacing, logistics

Summary

The conversation delves into the intricacies of preparing for long-distance running events, particularly focusing on the transition from a 50-mile to a 100-mile race. It emphasises the importance of planning, nutrition, pacing strategies, and logistical considerations to successfully tackle the challenges of longer races.

Takeaways

Planning is crucial for long-distance events. A 100-mile race requires more detailed preparation. Nutrition strategy is key for endurance running. Pacing strategies must be tailored for longer distances. Logistics play a significant role in race day success. Understanding the unique challenges of a 100-mile race is essential. Time management before the race is important. Mental preparation is as important as physical training. Adapting strategies from shorter races can be beneficial. Experience from previous races informs better planning.

Sound bites

"Exactly the same kind of approach." "Plan your pacing strategy." "Plan your nutrition strategy."

Join host Tim Rogers and finisher Dom Littler as they dive into the 2025 Chester Marathon — breaking down race highlights, runner experiences, and performance insights from one of the UK’s most scenic 26.2-mile courses. Whether you ran it, cheered from the sidelines, or are planning your next big race, this episode offers the perfect post-race debrief for every running fan.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• Dom started running to raise money for men's mental health.
• He transitioned from 10K to marathon after a challenge from friends.
• Training for Chester included long runs on a treadmill due to weather.
• Dom's training included speed work with a local running club.
• He achieved a personal best during the Chester Marathon.
• The course was scenic, running through Wales and back to England.
• Crowd support was strong, especially in the countryside.
• Dom experienced cramps during the race but managed to push through.
• He learned the importance of hill training for future races.
• Dom aims for a sub-3:30 marathon in London.

• From 10K to Marathon: Dom's Journey
• Chester Marathon: A Runner's Experience

• "I could run a marathon sub 4."
• "Chester's a really nice route to do."
• "I want to aim for 3:30 in London."

Completing all of the World Marathon Majors is a dream goal for many runners, but qualifying for each one is a major challenge. In this episode, we sit down with Jacob Coan, an accomplished runner from New York, who is aiming to qualify for every one of them.

Jacob shares his training strategies just weeks out from the New York City Marathon, including tips for first-time participants. Having run NYC before, he also offers a course preview and insights on what to expect when racing through the Big Apple.

Whether you’re chasing your first Major or dreaming of completing all seven, this episode is packed with practical advice, motivation, and insider knowledge for marathoners.

Podcast Notes

Keywords

marathon, running, New York Marathon, training, Jacob Coan, marathon majors, running community, race tips, track sessions, marathon experience

• Jacob is originally from Chester, Northern England, and now runs in Brooklyn.
• He is training for the New York Marathon and Queens Marathon.
• Qualifying times for Chicago and Boston marathons are very competitive.
• Training includes tempo runs, track sessions, and long runs.
• The New York Marathon has a unique start process involving a ferry ride.
• Community support is crucial for motivation and training.
• Jacob trains with local running clubs in Brooklyn.
• He is pursuing a coaching certificate for endurance running.
• The atmosphere of the New York Marathon varies across boroughs.
• Preparation for the marathon includes planning for logistics and nutrition.

• Running the World Marathon Majors
• Jacob's Journey to Marathon Success

• "I'm based in Brooklyn in New York."
• "I don't have a coach officially."
• "You run through all five boroughs."

Ben Gregoriou shares his journey to the Great North Run. From his first steps into running to fundraising for the Silver Star Maternity Fund charity, race-day challenges, and future goals, Ben’s story highlights the motivation, community, and emotion behind every mile. Ben wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Prof Christopher Redmond at the Silver Star Unit in Oxford, who passed away in August 2024, so raising money for the charity from this run was especially important.

You can donate to Ben's Great North Run fundraising efforts on his Just Giving page here

If you'd like to follow in Ben's footsteps and run your next event for the Silver Star Maternity Fund, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Maggie Margaret.Findlay@ouh.nhs.uk. Find out more about the charity here

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords

Great North Run, running, training, charity, fundraising, race day, half marathon, personal journey, fitness, community support

Summary

In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers interviews Ben, who recently completed the Great North Run. Ben shares his personal journey into running, the motivations behind his charity choice, and the extensive training he undertook for the half marathon. He discusses the challenges and excitement of race day, including the atmosphere, course layout, and his emotional experience during the final stretch. Additionally, Ben reflects on his fundraising efforts and future running goals, emphasising the importance of community support and personal motivation.

Takeaways

Ben started running for fitness and health reasons. He chose to fundraise for the Silver Star Unit due to personal connections. Training for the Great North Run involved a 19-20 week program. Ben integrated both outdoor and treadmill runs into his training. The Great North 10K served as a warm-up for the half marathon. Race day nerves kicked in the morning of the event. Preparation included organising gear the night before. The first half of the course was his favorite due to the atmosphere. Crowd support was significant but varied throughout the course. Ben raised over £800 for charity, exceeding his initial target.

Titles

Running for a Cause: Ben's Great North Run Journey From Fitness to Fundraising: Ben's Running Story

Sound bites

"I did a 19-20 week training program" "I set a new PB in that" "I was actually really shocked"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ben's Running Journey 02:27 Training for the Great North Run 07:08 Race Day Preparations 11:12 Experiencing the Course: First Half 17:17 Navigating the Second Half of the Race 19:37 The Final Stretch and Emotions 21:13 Fundraising Success and Motivation 25:05 Looking Ahead: Future Running Goals

As part of a ‘3 Halfs in a Month’ challenge supporting Young Lives vs Cancer, Frank White tackled the London Landmarks Half Marathon, along with the Bideford Half and Bath Half. In this episode, Frank shares a detailed race recap, offering insights into his strategy, how he improved his times across all three events, and the motivation behind his charity running challenge. Perfect for runners seeking inspiration, half marathon tips, and ideas for fundraising through running.

For more podcasts go to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training & fundraising support, another on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• Frank completed three half marathons in one month for charity.
• The atmosphere at the London Landmarks Half Marathon was unmatched.
• Pacing strategies are crucial for long-distance races.
• Proper fuelling can significantly impact race performance.
• Iconic landmarks provide motivation during the race.
• Achieving a personal best is a culmination of training and strategy.
• Fundraising success can exceed initial targets with effort.
• Social media plays a key role in fundraising campaigns.
• Future challenges include more half marathons and a potential triathlon.
• Running can lead to a slippery slope of increasing distances.

• Running for a Cause: Frank's Half Marathon Journey
• From Fundraising to Finishing: A Runner's Story

• "I got a PB of 1 hour 54."
• "I couldn't believe it, really am."
• "It's a slippery slope, isn't it?"

Charity Running Inspiration: Izzy Hunter’s 10K Challenge Izzy Hunter, diagnosed with scoliosis, ran her first 10K in 30-degree heat and raised £1,655 for the Scoliosis Support & Research charity. Listen to her inspirational running story and learn how she turned a running challenge into a powerful fundraising achievement.

If you'd like to follow in Izzy's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, email Will fundraising@ssr.org.uk. Thank you.

To find out more about scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk

For more podcasts go to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training & fundraising support, another on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords

running, fundraising, scoliosis, 10K, personal journey, health, motivation, social media, race day, community support

Summary

In this episode, Tim Rogers interviews Izzy Hunter, who shares her inspiring journey of starting to run during lockdown and her motivation to complete a 10K race. Izzy discusses her training experiences, the challenges she faced, including her battle with scoliosis and the impact of her spinal surgery. She also highlights her fundraising efforts for Scoliosis Support and Research, the role of social media in her journey, and the emotional experience of race day. Izzy reflects on her achievements and looks forward to future running goals, including a half marathon.

Takeaways

Izzy started running during lockdown to get fit. She completed her first 5K on a treadmill. The 10K was significant as it marked 10 years since her spinal surgery. Izzy faced challenges with the heat during the race. She felt motivated to run again after her first race experience. Choosing the right running shoes was crucial for her training. Her surgery allowed her to engage in physical activities without issues. Izzy raised £1,655 for Scoliosis Support and Research. The experience of crossing the finish line was overwhelming. Completing a New Year's resolution was a personal achievement for Izzy.

Titles

Running Against the Odds: Izzy's Journey From Lockdown to 10K: Izzy's Story

Sound bites

"I started running during lockdown." "I did my first 5K on a treadmill." "It was overwhelming in a really good way."

Chapters

00:00 Izzy's Running Journey Begins 03:09 Training Solo and Overcoming Challenges 06:10 Choosing the Right Gear for Running 09:41 Scoliosis and the Impact of Surgery 12:16 Fundraising for a Cause 16:21 The Role of Social Media in Fundraising 18:02 Harnessing Social Media for Fundraising 20:37 Race Weekend Preparations 22:01 The Race Experience: Heat and Support 24:34 Crossing the Finish Line: Emotions and Achievements 26:39 Looking Ahead: Future Running Goals