No Finish Line John O'Regan - Ultra Runner & Endurance

In this episode I'm joined by Barry Loftus, a recent finisher of the Marathon des Sables, a 250Km Stage Race in the Sahara Desert.

The MdS is a race that has always been popular with runners from Ireland and it's one that I get asked a lot of questions about. My knowledge of the race is fading and I used this opportunity to ask questions that help with anyone planning to take on this or any other similar event.

We talk about the training, the kit selection, what to expect when over there and how to prepare for your return.

Barry has also recently published a book that documents his journey to the start line and then his experience in the Desert.

Instagram @strandfitness.ie

Buy the Book.

Velcro Service for Desert Gaiters

Trans Sahara Marathon Episode

Hoka Speedgoat






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Laois boasts some of the most scenic hiking and running trails in Ireland. It offers a diverse range of routes for all experience levels, making it a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In this episode of No Finish Line I'm joined once again by Ellie Berry of Tough Soles. Ellie has walked all of the Waymarked Trails of Ireland and she speaks fondly of her experiences in the Slieve Blooms and surrounding area.
The scenic trails of County Laois are accessible all year round. Whether you are looking for an invigorating winter run or a calming summer stroll, Laois has a trail to suit your every needs.
Visitors to the county can choose from a range of trails that cater to different preferences. The challenging Glendineoregan Loop takes runners through the Slieve Bloom Mountains, while walkers can enjoy the picturesque Glenbarrow Loop with its stunning views.
However, Laois offers more than just hiking. Visitors can explore its many cycling options, from Mountain Bike Trails to designated road cycling loops. Its golf courses are also second to none, and there's a growing network of kayaking and canoe clubs opening throughout the county.
And after a day on the trails, walkers can indulge in Laois's vibrant food scene. From gourmet restaurants to charming local coffee shops, there's a wealth of culinary delights to refuel with.
Visitors will find a variety of exciting activities, beautiful views, historical riches, and friendly people – all just an hour away from Dublin. Visit laoistourism.ie to plan your next adventure. 

You can also visit the The Slieve Blooms.



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Carla Molinaro is a record breaking ultrarunner, adventurer and running coach.
Carla has represented Great Britain at the 50Km & 100Km World Championships and in 2023 she won the IAU 50Km World Championships while also leading the Great Britain Women's Team to Team Gold.
She has also earned two Gold Medal's at Comrades (the oldest and largest ultra marathon in the world) and set a World Record for running the length of Great Britain, a distance of 1,327km. Carla completed the distance in an incredible time of 12 days, 30 minutes and 14 seconds!
In this interview we talk about the Ultra Running mindset and staying true to yourself.
https://www.carlamolinaro.com/about
A FEW ACHIEVEMENTS...

1st - 50 km World Championships (2023)
3rd - Comrades Marathon (2023)
3rd Two Oceans Ultra (2023)
1st - Gun Run 21km (2023)
1st - Redhill Marathon (2023) Course Record
LEJOG World Record (2020) 1327km in 12 days 30 mins and 14 secs
1st + Course Record Capital to Country Ultra (2020) 69km
Gold Medal 9th Comrades Ultra Marathon (2018) 90km
To be contined ............
#ultrarunning #hoka #worldchampion


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Wayne Spies is an Australian International Ultrarunner. He is famed for his serial participation in South Africa’s iconic Comrades Marathon. What's more, for a man who never showed much athletic talent during his formative years, his achievement is made even more remarkable by the fact that he broke three-time champion and Olympian Vladimir Kotov's 11-year-old Masters record of 05:48:12 on his way to stopping the clock in 05:42:00.



I caught up with Wayne at the IAU 50Km World Championships 2023 in Hyderabad, India. We had a very insightful talk about Ultra Running including the training, racing and most importantly the recovery. Wayne places a lot of emphasis on the recovery part of the training. Hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed the talking.

If you enjoy this or any of the recent podcasts then please consider leaving a review or sharing.

Thanks,

John

Instagram @johnoregan777




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You may not have given much thought to your Marathon Recovery but in this episode we talk about why you should plan beyond that finishers medal.

Matthew Collins is an Irish International Ultra Runner and seasoned Marathon Runner with over 40 quality Marathons completed with the past 10 years. He has gone from a 3:20 finish to his most recent sub 2:30 in the Dublin Marathon 2023. He shares the lessons he has learned while on this journey and he talks about how he managed with some planning and a changed mindset to eventually achieve his goal of running under 2 hours 30 mins.

Matthew shares his thoughts on mindset and recovery both physical and mental.

We hope you enjoy this episode.


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Professional data analyst Prof Barry Smyth, has tapped into the deep reserves of marathon data available online. His findings identify the common pitfalls that derail so many recreational runners – and the best ways to avoid them.
In this episode we discus some of his findings.
This episode will be of benefit to runners of all distances

Prof. Barry Smyth on Medium
Twitter


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