In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, James Tilley and Gemma Hiller-Moses catch up for an honest conversation about all things trail running, from training and recovery to racing and staying motivated. They share personal updates about their own running journeys, the highs and lows of consistency, and how they keep their love for the sport strong.

Gemma talks about the importance of finding joy in the process, creating training plans that actually work for you, and trusting your body, while James reflects on his goals, routines, and how recovery can sometimes be the key to progress. As they discuss the ups and downs of training, they emphasise that you can't take recovery for granted, rest is sometimes the best option, and taking action is what gives you motivation. Together, they explore the mental and physical challenges that come with running and why it’s not just about the miles, but about mindset, balance, and purpose.

They also chat about James’ favourite RunThrough Trails European events, offering inspiration for where you should race in 2026, and preview his exciting upcoming race in the USA, where he’s got his sights set firmly on the win.

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, host James Tilley sits down with elite trail runner Naomi Lang to explore her journey from growing up in the Scottish hills to competing on the world stage. Naomi shares how her love for the outdoors shaped her running career, her transition from track and cross country to trail and hill running, and what it’s like to represent Great Britain at the World Championships and take on the Marathon du Mont Blanc, finishing third on the podium in both.

She opens up about training techniques, mastering downhill running, and joining the Salomon team, which marked a major step in her professional journey. Naomi also reflects on the mental side of competition, how she stays calm under pressure and finds confidence in her preparation, and how the sport continues to push her to new levels.

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast – Episode 26: Ian Morgan and Fran Ibar

In this episode of the Run Through Trails Podcast, host James Tilley sits down with runners Ian Morgan and Fran Ibar to explore how running became a catalyst for personal transformation in their lives. From starting later in life to navigating major life shifts, this powerful conversation dives into what it means to find purpose, strength, and joy through the trials, regardless of where you begin.

🏃‍♀️ Fran’s late start in running and her passion for women’s wellness and trail adventures

🔄 Ian’s midlife transformation—from unhealthy habits to becoming a committed runner

🧠 The importance of coaching, mindset, and resilience in creating lasting change

🌱 How patience and consistency can lead to meaningful progress

💬 Honest insights on navigating menopause and staying active for long-term health

🏞️ The joys and challenges of trail running, and why community support makes all the difference

🎯 Advice for anyone chasing a goal—on or off the trails

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to reconnect with your why, this episode is packed with motivation, practical tips, and real-life stories to fuel your journey.

👇 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations from the trail.

#RunThroughTrails #TrailRunning #WomensWellness #RunningPodcast #MidlifeRunner #RunForJoy

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast – Episode 25: Tommy Lewis

In this episode, host James Tilley and co-host Lewis Moses sit down with ultra runner and coach Tommy Lewis to explore the world of trail running, community, and what it truly takes to go the distance. 🏃‍♂️🌲

From an active childhood shaped by military life to discovering his passion for ultra running, Tommy shares how he found freedom and purpose on the trails. The conversation delves into the unique atmosphere of the ultra scene, where camaraderie, inclusivity, and grit converge.

💬 In this episode:

Tommy’s first ultra experience & what he learned

The beauty (and brutal honesty) of trail running

Why strength training matters more than you think

Confidence in the gym & longevity in sport

Lessons from podcasting, mantras, and favourite shows

The power of community in running & beyond

Whether you're chasing your first ultra or just love a deep, honest chat about movement and mindset, this one’s for you.

🎧 Hit play and get inspired to take your next step—on the trail, in the gym, or in life.

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast – Episode 24: Scott Jenkins

In this episode, James and Lewis sit down with legendary ultra runner Scott Jenkins, the first British person to complete the Triple Crown of 200s—three gruelling 200+ mile races in one year. Fresh off finishing the Arizona Monster 300, one of the most brutal ultra events in the U.S., Scott brings raw honesty, powerful insights, and a deep passion for the sport.

🔥 In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Scott’s journey into ultra running and what keeps him going
• What it takes to conquer the Triple Crown of 200s
• Completing the Arizona Monster 300: mental and physical lessons from the edge
• How he trains, fuels, hydrates, and prioritises sleep and recovery
• The importance of a strong "why" when the miles get tough
• Running for charity and purpose: giving meaning to every step
• Thoughts on the rapid rise of ultra running around the world
• AND …. HALLUCINATIONS!

Whether you're an aspiring ultra athlete or just curious about what drives someone to run hundreds of miles, Scott’s story is packed with motivation, wisdom, and unforgettable moments.

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe to the RunThrough Trails Podcast for more deep dives into the world of trail and ultra running

FOLLOW US

James Tilley - https://www.instagram.com/jtrunsuk/

Lewis Moses - https://www.instagram.com/lewismosesnlc/

Scott Jenkins - https://www.instagram.com/scottjjenkins/

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast – Episode 23: Joe Farrelly 🏃‍♂️🔥

In this raw and motivating episode, Lewis Moses welcomes Joe Farrelly, a fast-rising name in the trail running world. Joe opens up about his transformation from a football-obsessed teenager to an ultra-marathon runner, carving a new path that began with giving up alcohol and embracing the structure, solitude, and satisfaction of long-distance running.

Joe shares:

* His early days in road racing and what pulled him into trail running 🌲
* The mental shift after a heart condition scare that made him reframe competition and performance
* His success at the 2024 Sea to Sky 50K and what it meant to run with joy truly
* Why coaching, community, and recovery are essential pillars in his journey
* His ambitious ultra goals for 2025 and the mindset he’s bringing to the mountains 🏔️

We go deep on what it means to run for passion, not pace, and how adversity can push you toward purpose. Whether you're a weekend warrior or chasing big trail dreams, this episode will leave you inspired to lace up and run with meaning.

🎧 Tune in now and get ready for a journey of resilience, grit, and miles.

FOLLOW US

James Tilley - https://www.instagram.com/jtrunsuk/

Lewis Moses - https://www.instagram.com/lewismosesnlc/

Jor Farrelly - https://www.instagram.com/jfarrelly95/

Welcome back to the RunThrough Trails Podcast! This week, we're joined by the incredible Holly Stables—a marathoner turned ultra runner who's taken on everything from the Commonwealth Games to the brutal trails of UTMB and just completed the 300-plus mile Speed Project solo!

🔥 In this episode, we cover:

* 🛣️ From non-runner to elite athlete – Holly's unexpected start and rise through the ranks
* 🥇 European Champs & Commonwealth Games – What it's really like competing at that level
* 🏃‍♀️ Trail & ultra transition – Making the leap from road to rugged
* 🏆 Comrades & UTMB – Race highlights, heartbreaks, and high-altitude grit
* ☀️ Mental battles & extreme heat – How Holly builds resilience in the toughest conditions
* 🧠 Training & nutrition evolution – What she's learned along the way
* 🛻 The Speed Project – Inside the wild, unsanctioned race from LA to Vegas
* 💬 Community, mindset, & staying motivated – The heart of endurance running

🎧 Tune in for a raw, honest, and seriously motivating convo that’ll make you want to lace up and hit the trails!

#RunThroughTrails #TrailRunning #UltraRunning #HollyStables #ComradesMarathon #UTMB #TheSpeedProject #Podcast

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails podcast, Gemma Moses returns to discuss her journey in trail running since her last appearance.

The conversation covers her training experiences leading up to the OCC race, the challenges she faced and her mindset towards performance. Gemma reflects on her learnings from OCC and how they influenced her moving forward.

James and Gemma also delve into the intricacies of trail running, focusing on the challenges of navigating difficult terrain, the importance of race strategy, and the mental aspects of competing. 

They discuss Gemma’s experiences during the UTMB Chianti race, highlighting the significance of preparation, pacing, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions which ultimately lead Gemma to victory even though she was seeded 8th on the start line.

In episode 20 of the RunThrough Trails podcast we explore the inspiring journey of John McAvoy, the founder of the Alpine Run Project. From his early life and ambitions, to a pivotal shift towards a life of crime, John experienced a transformative turning point in prison. Discover how he found a passion for sport, transitioned from personal achievement to inspiring others, and began his journey as an endurance athlete. We also dive into his shift to trail running and the birth of the Alpine Run Project, a platform that empowers youth through sport while shaping his future aspirations for community impact.

In this episode, James & Lewis are joined by a very special guest, Mike Murphy. Mike was the person who introduced James to trail running and has been a huge inspiration since then. He continues to mentor James in his trail running and today sits down to talk about his journey from early athletics to competitive trail running. He also covers his transition into the sport, first race experience, and key lessons learned. He shares insights on pacing, race strategy, and the psychological aspects of running, as well as his experience building a running community through group runs and opening a running store. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the trail running journey!

James & Lewis are back for another episode & are joined by special guest Christian Meier.

Christian shares his journey from cycling to trail running, exploring the growing scene in Girona and the Pyrenees. He reflects on experiences at UTMB and TDS, offers race preparation tips, and discusses building a business in the sport. Christian also highlights sustainability in trail running gear and the balance between aesthetics and performance, while sharing his future plans and upcoming events. 

In this episode of the Run Through Trails podcast, host James Tilley and co-host Lewis Moses interview elite trail runner Chelsea Creak. Chelsea discusses her transition from rowing to trail running, race experiences, and training strategies. They cover topics such as the Golden Trail Series, trail types, race strategy, and equipment choices. Chelsea also reflects on her recent race highlights, challenges, goals for the upcoming year, and the importance of preparation and team support, including insights on altitude's impact and strategies for her target race, OCC.

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, host James Tilley sits down with Danny Stokes from TrailFam, a charity using the power of trail running to change young lives.

Danny shares his own journey into the sport, from tackling a triathlon with his brother to discovering trail running through YouTube and falling in love with the mountains. He opens up about how trail running transformed his lifestyle, and how the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic inspired the creation of TrailFam.

From humble beginnings as an after-school club, TrailFam has grown into a thriving charity dedicated to improving the physical health, mental wellbeing, and future opportunities of young people. Danny and James explore the importance of community, the benefits of connecting with nature, and the role diversity plays in making trail running more accessible to all.

Whether it’s through their race team giving young athletes the chance to compete, or by creating a safe and supportive space for kids to thrive, TrailFam is proof that running can be a powerful tool for change.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about sport, community, and the next generation of trail runners.

In this episode, we kick things off by diving into Lewis' recent experience of The Arc of Attrition as a coach. James & Lewis then recap their experiences and share insights on handling challenges, and reflect on what makes races like these so rewarding. Plus, we talk about the beautiful trails of Girona, offering a unique setting for trail runners looking to experience a mix of stunning landscapes and challenging terrains. 

James and Lewis are back in 2025 for the latest episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast! 

In this episode James & Lewis cover the recent New Levels Coaching Paula Radcliffe marathon workshop. They also discuss the impact of super shoes, the challenges of transitioning from short to long distances, the importance of structured training plans, and the mental resilience needed to succeed.

The episode wraps up by highlighting the value of group dynamics, consistency, and community in both road and trail running. 

In Episode 14, James and Lewis talk all things trail shoes, running gear, and winter essentials. Lewis recaps his trip to the Kendal Mountain Festival, James shares his excitement about being back in training, and they break down their favourite shoes and kit for different runs. Perfect for anyone planning their next race or updating their gear this winter!

James and Lewis reflect on 2024, looking back at races, injuries, experiences and lessons learned. They then chat about how to properly plan for the year ahead and how they think about fitting their running in around life and work commitments.

James & Lewis discuss their career history and how they ended up working dream jobs in the running industry. They also discuss recruitment and give some tips on how you can maximise your chances of getting a job in coaching and event organisation.

James and Lewis discuss rehab post UTMB and how best to deal with injuries from the perspective of both coach and athlete.

In this episode the James & Lewis debrief their time away in the Alps & the UTMB week of racing. James & Lewis also discuss the future of the RunThrough Trails and the 2025 race calendar.

Lewis and James sit down in the stunning Chamonix valley for a collab podcast between New Levels Coaching and RunThrough Trails. James talks about his personal running journey and how he ended up where he is today.

Lewis and James chat to the inspirational Luke Grenfell Shaw. Luke is a Brooks athlete who will be competing at the upcoming CCC by UTMB in Chamonix this week. Luke has experienced another level of challenge throughout his personal and athletic career and he very kindly shares his incredible story with us. This one is something special, enjoy.

--

RT Trails Race Calendar 🗓

Ladybower Reservoir, UK - 12th October 2024
Beat Box Hill, UK - 26th October 2024
Girona, ESP - 24-25 Maya 2025
The Fox, UK - 24th May 2025
Ultra Trail Morzine-Avoriaz, FRA - 20-22 Juin 2025
Tittesworth Water, UK - 6th July 2025
Engelberg, SUI - 22-24 August 2025
Snowdonia Sea2Sky, UK - 2025 date tbc

➡️ https://www.runthroughtrails.com/

Our team is made up of passionate runners and outdoor enthusiasts, who are so lucky to get to do something that we love every day. We have come together as individuals to make up a collective of people who are both experts at organising events and experienced participants, having taken part in hundreds of races throughout our personal running journeys. From this our aim to create the best possible trail events for you to race in. 

Lewis and James chat to HOKA athlete and Elite Trail Team member Kris Jones. Kris speaks all about his running career so far as well some of his training methodologies and upcoming race goals. 

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 33

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails podcast, host James Tilley sits down with professional Brooks trail runner Anna Gibson. Growing up in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Anna competed as a track athlete before moving into trail running, while also excelling in other disciplines such as skiing and cycling. Her diverse athletic background has shaped her training philosophy, emphasising the importance of cross training and adaptability.

With the World Championships in Canfranc, Spain on the horizon, Anna talks about her preparation and the mental strategies that keep her sharp on race day. From exploring unique race formats to reflecting on the exciting growth of trail running as a professional sport, this conversation highlights Anna’s journey as a versatile athlete and her passion for competition.

Follow Us.

James Tilley - https://www.instagram.com/jtrunstrails/

Anna Gibson - https://www.instagram.com/annaagibsonn/

In this episode James and Lewis talk all things trail running with legendary British trail runner Jon Albon. Jon has a world class list of race results dating back over a decade. Join us as he takes us through his journey from Obstacle course racing into ultra distance trail running and discusses his recent Western States debut as well as his training philosophy and much more! 

The first of our upcomming run of athlete interviews. Tom Joly is a professional trail runner, originating from the UK but now based in Spain. He is a member of the Elite Trail Team and joins James & Lewis to discuss all things running! 

Tom takes us through how he started running, his training philosophy, recent races and his plans for this years big race - UTMB.

On this episode James is joined by Lewis' better half Gemma, and they discuss their recent Euro road trip including course recce's in Chamonix, Retreats in Morzine and an upcoming race in Verbier

While Lewis heads off to Austria to support Gemma and Justin at Mozart, James travels to Annecy after a last minute call up to represent Team GB at the European Off Road Running Championships.

After a big weekend of racing at Ultra Trail Snowdonia, James and Lewis talk through the week leading up to the race and breakdown James' winning run. 

James and Lewis welcome you to the new pod with updates on recent training, future race plans and plenty of other random trail chat to keep you company on your next long run.

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 32

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, host James Tilley sits down with Gemma Hillier-Moses to reflect on her journey to and through CCC at UTMB, her 100K debut!

Gemma opens up about the challenges of injury recovery, adapting her training to the mountains (and living in a van) and the mental strategies that helped her tackle one of the toughest trail races on the calendar. She shares the highs and lows of race day, from unpredictable weather to fueling strategies, and the lessons learned along the way.

Beyond the race itself, Gemma talks about the value of learning from fellow elite athletes at the HOKA training camp and how endurance sport has shaped her both as an athlete and as a person. Despite setbacks, her performance at CCC stands as a huge milestone in her career, and she looks ahead with excitement to returning stronger in the future.

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 31

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, host James Tilley sits down with professional trail runner Dani Moreno of adidas TERREX.

Dani shares her journey from childhood football player to professional athlete, the challenges of transitioning to full-time running, and the lessons she’s learned through injury and recovery. She opens up about her recent experience at the OCC and what it means to step up to the CCC, while also reflecting on the role of coaching, pacing strategy, and team dynamics in her success.

📌 Key Takeaways:

From football roots to professional trail running

How her parents shaped her work ethic & financial mindset

The leap from tech job to full-time athlete

Managing injuries as part of the athlete journey

Conservative race strategies & pacing insights

Stepping up from OCC ➝ CCC

Coaching, team support & community impact

Dani’s own podcasting journey & future goals

🎧 Subscribe to the RunThrough Trails Podcast for more conversations with trail athletes, coaches, and adventurers.

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 30

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails podcast, host James Tilley speaks with adventurer, ultra-endurance athlete, and mental health advocate Alex Staniforth. From a childhood shaped by epilepsy and bullying, Alex opens up about how the outdoors became a source of confidence, belonging, and healing.

He shares the story behind his monumental challenge of climbing all 446 mountains in England and Wales, a journey that not only pushed his physical limits but raised vital funds for mental health initiatives. Through the conversation, Alex reflects on how setting personal goals helped him regain a sense of control, and how running and adventure became powerful tools for managing mental health.

They explore the founding of Mind Over Mountains, Alex’s charity dedicated to helping others find healing through nature, and discuss why community, recovery, and self-care are essential after big challenges. He also shares thoughts on the ongoing journey of self-discovery through endurance, emphasising that in running, as in life, the journey is just as meaningful as the destination.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the intersection between physical activity and mental resilience, and how nature can be a path to both purpose and peace.

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations at the heart of endurance, mental health, and adventure.

James Tilley - https://www.instagram.com/jtrunstrails/
RunThrough Trails - https://www.instagram.com/runthroughtrails/
Alex Staniforth - https://www.instagram.com/alexstaniforth_/

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 29

In this episode of the Run Through Trails podcast, host James Tilley welcomes Edward Gwynne-Harris, trail running enthusiast and creator of the Gwynne-Harris Round in the Brecon Beacons. Edward shares his transformation from a casual runner to an ultra runner, and how his deepening appreciation for his local landscape led to the creation of a new, challenging, and inspiring route through one of Wales' most beautiful national parks.

They discuss:

Growing up in the Brecon Beacons and learning to love the outdoors later in life

Starting with triathlons and shifting focus to trail and ultra running

The motivation behind creating the Gwynne-Harris Round to spotlight the Beacons

The accessibility and scenic value of the Brecon Beacons compared to areas like Snowdonia and the Lake District

Fueling challenges and lessons learned during his ultra-distance efforts

The role of culture, community, and storytelling in trail running

Why it’s important to explore and promote lesser-known trails to ease pressure on overused routes

This episode is a deep dive into what makes the Brecon Beacons special, why community matters in trail running, and how one runner’s vision turned into a new challenge for others to explore.

📽️ Don’t miss the discussion about the Gwynne-Harris Round documentary—it beautifully captures the essence of the route and watch it here - https://youtu.be/aazZLqPX_0s?feature=shared

In this special episode, we sit down with RunThrough Trails' very own James Tilley for an honest, insightful, and inspiring conversation. 

Together with guest host Ben Sheppard from RunThroughs Gone Running Podcast, James reflects on his time in Canada, the roots of his passion for the mountains, and the challenges of turning trail dreams into reality on race day. The duo dive deep into what went into organising one of the most emotional and ambitious events on the RunThrough calendar: Ultra Trail Morzine-Avoriaz.

Also hear,

🏞️ How James designed and raced his own trail course
💥 The behind-the-scenes chaos of delivering an event
📈 RunThrough’s vision for European expansion
🤯 Navigating setbacks, mental fatigue & last-minute changes
🤝 The power of community, connection, and the RunThrough team spirit

This episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a successful trail event — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. From planning courses to managing crises, it’s a candid conversation about passion, purpose, and the people who make the sport so special.

💬 Whether you're a runner, a race director, or someone who loves a good story about grit and growth, this one’s for you.

👇 Hit play, subscribe, and drop us a comment about your own favourite trail experience!

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 27

In this episode, host James Tilley sits down with Caleb Olson, fresh off his incredible win at Western States 2025 — one of the most iconic and demanding ultramarathons in the world. 🏆

Caleb takes us through his journey to the top step of the podium, sharing the behind-the-scenes moments, mindset shifts, and race-day decisions that led to his biggest victory yet.

They chat through:

🔥 The build-up and buzz around Western States 2025

🌍 How it compared to international races like Trans-Gran Canaria

📈 Caleb’s unique training approach and how he prepped for the big day

⏱️ The critical moments in the race — pacing, pushing, and pain

🧠 Mental resilience and staying focused in the final stretch

🥇 What it means to win such a prestigious race

🚀 What’s next for Caleb and how this win shapes his future goals

Whether you're an ultra running fanatic or just love hearing about grit and glory, this episode delivers big-time insight, heart, and inspiration.

👉 Tap in, subscribe, and come along for the ride — it’s one you won’t want to miss!

On this episode of the RunThrough Trails podcast, we’re joined by Francesco Puppi, one of the best trail running athletes on earth and the recent champion of CCC. 

Francesco shares why the process of running matters more to him than the final outcome and how external success doesn’t always reflect how an athlete truly feels. He opens up about staying motivated through a genuine love for the sport rather than outside validation, and the essential role mental resilience plays in getting through tough training blocks and race moments.

Francesco reflects on how experience has shaped his understanding of his own limits and how it guides his approach to training. He talks about the importance of versatility across different distances to keep training exciting, as well as the need for a holistic approach that balances running with the rest of life. With his sights set on Western States, he also discusses the unique mental challenges of ultra running and the mindset required to overcome them.

In this episode of the RunThrough podcast, trail running legend Ryan Sandes joins the show to share his journey from rugby player to world-renowned ultra athlete. Ryan talks about how an impulsive decision to run his first marathon sparked a career built on adventure and exploration. He reflects on how trail running has evolved over the years and why the sport’s adventurous spirit continues to drive him.

Hosted by James Tilley, the conversation dives into Ryan’s biggest undertakings, including the prestigious Drakensberg Grand Traverse in South Africa, his life-changing expedition on the Great Himalaya Trail, and his recent push at the Cocodona 250, which challenged him in new ways. 

Ryan also explains why long-term sponsor relationships matter, why downtime and recovery are essential after big efforts, and how Southern Africa still holds countless unexplored routes and future adventures.

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, guest host Lewis Moses sits in for James Tilley to chat with trail running superstar Judith Wyder. Judith opens up about her journey from orienteering to trail running, how she balances family life with her athletic career, and the challenges and joys that come with it.

She shares her thoughts on strength training, pacing, and adapting training schedules to fit family life, as well as what keeps her motivated, like seeing her kids at races. Judith also talks about her love for shorter distance races, the growing inclusivity in the trail running community, and why enjoying the sport and inspiring others is just as important as competing.

In this episode of the Run Through Trails Podcast, host James Tilley welcomes elite trail runner Hayden Hawks to reflect on the challenges he faced at UTMB, where difficult weather and preparation issues made for one of the toughest races of his career. Hayden breaks down what went wrong, what he learned from the experience, and how it reshaped his focus moving forward.

The conversation then shifts to Hayden’s standout performance at the 2025 Kodiak 100 Miler, a race that marked a major turning point after UTMB. James and Hayden also dive into his approach to improving as an athlete, with a strong emphasis on developing technical skills and preparing for demanding mountain terrain.

Later in the episode, Hayden shares how he enjoys combining racing with family travel and why cultural immersion has become an important part of his international racing experiences. The chat also highlights hydration and nutrition strategies, his work with coach Robbie Britton, and the camaraderie and friendships that define the trail running community.

Looking ahead, Hayden outlines an ambitious 2026 race calendar, with his sights set on returning to key races and addressing unfinished business on some of the sport’s biggest mountain stages.

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, host James is joined by Gemma and Lewis to break down Gemma’s impressive win at the ARC 50.

Facing brutal winds, heavy mud, and constantly changing conditions, the race became as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Gemma shares how experience helped her stay patient early on, adjust her pacing to match the conditions, and focus on what she could control throughout the day. Feeling strong in the latter stages of the race was a clear sign that her fueling, pacing, and preparation all came together when it mattered most.

The conversation also explores the overall competitiveness of the field, the impact of the tough conditions across the race, and why preparation — from mindset to shoe choice — can make or break performance on a demanding course.

To close, they look ahead to what’s next for Gemma, discussing upcoming goals, lessons taken from this race, and how she plans to build on this result as she continues to develop as an ultra runner.

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, James Tilley is joined by GB athlete Lawrence McCourt to talk through his journey from the strong club scene in Gateshead to representing Great Britain on the international stage.

Lawrence reflects on discovering running through school cross country, stepping away from the sport due to injuries and life changes, and how the COVID period reignited his passion through local races and the people around him. They get into the differences between fell racing, trail running and the roads, and why returning to road racing played a key role in rebuilding his confidence.

The conversation also explores the growing crossover between disciplines, what it felt like to make his Great Britain debut, and how community continues to shape his approach to the sport. Lawrence shares what he has learned along the way and looks ahead to future ambitions, including a potential move up to the marathon distance and more major trail competitions.

In this episode of The RunThrough Trails Podcast, elite trail runner Toni McCann joins host James Tilley. Coming to running later than many pros, Toni started out in team sports before discovering the trails, where a tough first race quickly sparked her competitive edge. She talks about the strength of South Africa’s running culture, the growth of trail running in the country, and what it has taken to move from 50k racing up to the demands of 100k distances after winning both CCC & OCC at UTMB Finals Week.

James and Toni also dive into coaching, including Tony’s experience with self coaching and the value of having guidance for accountability, as well as the challenge of balancing her own racing with coaching others. They explore the mental resilience needed to perform at the highest level and how mindset plays a huge role over longer distances.

With the World Championships in Cape Town In 2027, Tony shares her excitement about racing on home soil and what’s next as she continues to test herself across different distances.

In this episode of The RunThrough Trails Podcast, Red Bull athlete David Kilgore joins host James Tilley to talk all things trail running. Known for his remarkable achievement of completing marathons on all seven continents, David shares how his journey into endurance sport has shaped his approach to training and racing on the trails.

James and David dive into the key elements of preparing for trail running, from building strength and endurance to developing the right mindset for unpredictable terrain. They discuss practical training techniques, the importance of strategy, and how runners of all levels can approach the unique challenges that come with trail environments.

Whether you're new to trail running or looking to elevate your performance, David offers valuable insights and actionable tips to help you make the most of every run off-road.

In this special episode of the RunThrough Trails Podcast, James and Lewis take a deep dive into this weekend’s RunThrough Trails Lake District event - and why it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting races of the year. They dissect the elite battle at the front, previewing the leading men’s and women’s fields and discussing what’s at stake with the race doubling as both the British 50K Trail Championships and a key European Championships selection race. 

With top athletes, national team implications and a stacked field on the start line, this episode is the perfect preview for anyone racing, spectating or following along from home.

They also break down the challenging 23K and 53K courses - from Scafell to Cat Bells, they explore what makes racing in the Lake District so unique, so technical and so tough - reflecting on last year’s brutal but unforgettable route, and explain the changes made for 2026.