This is the second upload of this as the audio didn't come out great the first time around, especially in the first couple of minutes. Thanks for the feedback.

In this episode of Trails, Tales, and Fails, Max and Sarah sit down with ultra runner Tom Joly, who shares his incredible journey from triathlons to ultra running. We dive into his breakthrough performances, including finishing 16th at UTMB 2023 as the top UK finisher, setting course records, and transitioning from Ironman to elite ultra running. Tom opens up about his training, sponsorship deal with Kailas Fuga, and his goals of becoming a professional ultra runner. Tune in for a candid conversation on pushing limits and chasing big dreams in the world of ultra running!

Today, we’re joined by the incredible ultra runner Laura Watts, an endurance powerhouse who has tackled some of the most brutal races on the planet. She’s a three-time Badwater 135 finisher (with a fourth attempt coming up!), winner of the Winter Downs 100, Leeds Liverpool Canal Race, and Kennet and Avon Canal Race, and—just for fun—ran 52 marathons in 52 weeks. Whether it’s scorching heat or relentless mud, Laura doesn’t just survive—she thrives.

We dig into:
🏜 Surviving Badwater 135 – Running 135 miles through Death Valley at 50°C.
❄ Battling the Winter Downs 100 – Cold, hills, mud, and total darkness.
🏃 52 Marathons in 52 Weeks – How do you keep going when your body says no?
🔥 Extreme Heat vs. Cold – Which is tougher, and what’s next?
🤣 Fails, epic moments, and unexpected trail surprises.

Grab your hydration packs, lace up, and hit play! 🎧

If you love the pod, share it, rate it, and leave us a review—it helps more runners find us!

What does it take to survive 268 miles of brutal winter conditions, 10,000m of climbing, and almost a full week of sleep deprivation? Meet Tim Secker, an ultrarunner who conquered the Montane Winter Spine Race in 166 hours and 17 minutes.

Tim is in his 50s and proves that grit, resilience, and mental toughness can prove to be more important than speed. In this episode, we break down, previous Spine failures, and his 2025 Spine Race experience, from battling extreme cold and relentless bogs to pushing through his darkest moments.

If you’re into ultra running, endurance mindset, or extreme racing, this one’s for you.