Changing for a Life of Trail Adventure
Changing for a life of trail adventure
Give us an insight into how you entered the trail running world and what it felt like to finish an ultra-running event?
I’ve always been an active outdoor person, I’ve ridden horses since I was four years old and was part of every sports team when I was at school. Funnily enough, I was very much a sprinter and never undertook anything longer than the 400m which makes me laugh looking back now.
Professionally I have been involved in the adventure travel industry for the last 10 years. Each place I’d travel to would introduce me to individuals from all walks of life, gaining an insight into great wildernesses and the possibilities and limits that are out there.
When I learned about ultra running it immediately appealed to me, but I questioned my ability to finish the distance as I had never even run a race before in my life. Not even a 5km park run.
With a bit of encouragement I undertook a training program and trained hard, I made sure I didn’t miss a day and followed the advice of those around me. The event itself was amazing, I finished 25th and learned that undertaking an Ultra is as much about mindset as it is about fitness.
Why do you feel the need to test yourself in harsh outdoor environments?
I generally am inspired by other people and I think ‘Well if they can do it, so can I’. It’s more important for me to test myself in the present and I don’t want to look back with any regrets, it’s too easy to coast in life.
I’m driven equally by the sense of achievement as I am about experiencing beautiful landscapes. When the two come together it can be the most magical experience which leaves lasting memories for a lifetime.
What has been your most treasured memory with Pure Trails Adventure?
Traversing the Sierra de Tramuntana of Mallorca was pretty special. The route was one of the original trips we put together and it’s so exciting travelling the width of the island, it’s definitely one of my favourites.
The trails are magical, running through ancient estates, olive, and citrus groves, and peeling down towards beautiful little coves where you can stop for a well-deserved dip in the Mediterranean to rest your tired legs. The route has everything and more you could ever wish for.
Heading back to the hotel after a sun-kissed day on the trail, a spot of yoga on the hotel terrace before finishing off with an Aperol Spritz as the sun goes down over Port de Soller does take some beating.
If you like the sound of the Sierra de Tramuntana you can join our group trail running adventure to Mallorca. As it’s quite popular we run a handful of departures each year. Full details of the trip can be found here: