Today’s episode is a special one. We’re diving into the 2025 South Downs Way 100—a race that’s not just a UK classic anymore, but now part of the World Trail Majors. That’s right, the SDW100 has officially gone global.

While the front of the field was electric—Mark Darbyshire shattered the course record, Peter Newman went out like a rocket, and Lucy Gossage and Julie Davis delivered one of the most thrilling women’s races we’ve seen—we’re zooming in on a different kind of hero.

Our guest is a good mate, cohost of the pod, a seasoned ultra-runner, and someone I had the absolute pleasure of crewing alongside co-host Sarah. He ran a blistering 19 hours and 13 minutes, and we’re unpacking the hot, emotional, and snack-fuelled miles that got him there.

From the early climbs through the rolling Downs, to the dark hours of the night, to the final push into Eastbourne—we talk strategy, suffering, aid station saviours, and yes, a few fails along the way.

So lace up, grab a flapjack, and let’s get into it.

In this episode, we’re joined by local legend and friend of the pod Dave Harvey — ultra runner, metal guitarist, mental health champion, and co-host of our favourite local show: The Portsmouth Running Podcast.

From shredding riffs in Belligerence to shredding trails at UTMB, TDS, Lakeland 100, Western States, and every Centurion race going, Dave’s journey is nothing short of epic.

We dive into:

• Winning Cardiff to London and The Tunnel

• Logging 200-milers on Strava as “Morning run” 😎

• His love of posh coffee and hatred for Coldplay

• The crossover between music, mindset, and mental health

• Behind the scenes of SMOGATHON — the greatest unofficial race you’ve never heard of

• And plenty of tales from the trails, riffs, and aid stations

So lace up, plug in, and get ready to step inside the mind of a man who lives loud, runs long, and lifts others along the way.

🔥 Like the pod? Leave a review and share it with your crew — especially your local running mates in Portsmouth and beyond!

In this episode of Trails, Tales & Fails, we delve into the remarkable journey of Susie Chan—a Peloton instructor, ultramarathoner, social media influencer, and award-winning author. From her humble beginnings to conquering some of the world's most gruelling races, such as Badwater 135 and MdS. Susie's story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Her memoir, Trails and Tribulations: The Running Adventures of Susie Chan, recently won the Sports Performance Book of the Year at the 2025 Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards . Join us as we explore her evolution from someone who did not run to becoming a beacon of inspiration in the endurance community.