Send us a textIn this touching and inspiring podcast, our guest is  Jack Adams, a dedicated runner, former military member, and missionary, about his incredible journey running the length of Japan. Jack shares his background, personal struggles, and how he harnessed faith and determination to embark on this massive undertaking, highlighting various encounters and lessons learned along the way.Chapters Introduction Meet Jack Jack’s Background and Running Journey First Marathon and Military Service Challenges and Comeback Going Back to Running Life in Japan Jack’s Ultra Marathon Experiences Life as a Missionary in Japan Faith and Decision Making Stories of Loneliness in Japan RunJapan—The Idea and Execution Journey Insights and Highlights Lessons from the Adventure Balancing Family and AdventureSupport the show

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode, Kgomotso Hamadziripi, a 22-year-old ultra runner, takes us through his extraordinary journey into the world of ultra running. From discovering his passion for running at a young age to maintaining an impressive running streak since August 2021, Kgomotso shares the highs and lows of competing in ultra-distance races. Notably, he recounts his experience in the Runyanga Ultra, where he completed the grueling 100-mile race in an astonishing time of 30:46:46, finishing second.Kgomotso opens up about overcoming unexpected challenges, from conquering extreme elevations to pushing through intense physical pain, all while developing innovative nutrition strategies to fuel his body. He also delves into the mental toughness required to stay motivated, especially when facing setbacks and exhaustion.Listeners will enjoy humorous anecdotes, reflections on the influence of motivational figures, and Kgomotso’s insights into the spiritual aspects of running, particularly during Ramadan. He also shares the touching reactions from his family, the sense of camaraderie among fellow runners, and how his journey has inspired others. This episode is filled with valuable lessons on perseverance, personal growth, and the joy of pushing both physical and mental boundaries in the world of ultra running.LinksRunyanga UltraKgomotso's InstagramDavid GogginsHellahgood's InstagramThe Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larson00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene00:46 Meet Kgomotso: The Running Enthusiast01:08 Rediscovering the Love for Running02:25 School Days and Early Influences03:39 The Ultra Running Journey Begins07:23 The 100-Mile Challenge11:42 Nutrition and Strategy for Ultra Running18:33 Managing Electrolytes and Nutrition19:03 Lessons from the First 100 Miler19:33 Trail Running Challenges21:13 Future Race Plans22:19 Mental Toughness and Overcoming Walls25:20 Foot Fractures and Running Through Pain30:04 Ramadan and Running34:15 Fun Questions and Final ThoughtsSupport the show

Send us a textIn Episode 97 of the podcast, we interview ultra runner Grant Mitchell, winner of the inaugural Runyanga 100-miler in Zimbabwe. This engaging episode covers Grant’s background in sports performance, his transition from rugby to ultra running, and the unique experiences he had during the 100-mile race. Grant shares insights into his training regimen, the mental and physical challenges of ultra-endurance sports, and the rewarding moments he encountered on the trails. The conversation touches upon the importance of proper pacing, the sense of community in trail running, and the expansion of the sport in Zimbabwe. Listeners will also hear about the challenges of training, the transition between sports, and the inspiring story of Grant's journey. The episode ends with fun anecdotes, including a humorous tale about a fellow runner’s encounter with biltong. Whether you are an experienced runner or new to the sport, Grant’s story offers valuable lessons and inspiration.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update00:38 Interview with Grant Mitchell Begins02:48 Grant's Background and Journey04:41 Life in Zimbabwe and Trail Running11:54 Ultra Running and Training Insights15:31 Mental Challenges and Pacing31:12 Navigating the Misty Peak32:10 A Moment of Solitude34:01 Family and Support During Races38:25 Training and Transitioning from Rugby to Ultra Running47:05 The Growing Trail Running Community54:22 Funny Race Stories58:56 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsSupport the show

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, the we converses with Juliana, who shares her extraordinary experience of running the Marathon Des Sables (MDS). From the logistical challenges before the race to the physical and emotional aspects of running in the desert, Juliana’s story is a testament to human determination and resilience. She also discusses her running background, her training regimen, the community spirit among runners, and the unforgettable moments from the MDS.Outline * Introduction to Episode 96 * Reconnecting with Juliana * Juliana’s Running Background * Training for the Marathon Des Sables * Logistical Challenges and Preparations * Race Day Experiences * Post-Race Reflections * Life After the Marathon Des SablesLinksMarathon de SablesThe Choice: Embrace the Possible by Edith Eva EgerThe Afterlife Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Join us in this riveting episode as we sit down with James, a determined and competitive runner, who shares his journey across the globe from the UK to the deserts of Morocco. We dive deep into his experiences and how he prepares, competes, and overcomes the challenges in ultra and trail running events like the Marathon Des Sables (MDS) and the Golden Trail Series. James also enlightens us on his strategic approach to racing, training regimens, and his future aspirations.Chapters James' Early Running Story Competing and Training Insights Running MDS: Preparation & Experience Golden Trail Series and UTMB Experience What's Next for James?LinksLiv 2 RunJames' InstagramMarathon de SablesEndure: How to Work Hard, outlast and Keep Hammering - Cameron Hanes and Joe RoganThe GentlemenThe Running Voyager InstagramSupport the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Linda chats with Zukie Tandathu, an ultra runner originally from South Africa, now based in the UK. Zukie shares his experiences of moving horses, transitioning to the UK, his running journey, training for ultra marathons, and becoming a North Face Explorer. He also discusses the challenges and highlights of participating in races like the Dragon's Back Race, Ultra Trail Snowdonia, and the Marathon des Sables.Zukie has a deep-seated passion for the great outdoors and a desire to continually discover and explore new environments. LinksZukie's InstagramThe North Face ExplorersSupport the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to episode 93 of the podcast! In this episode, Linda sits down with Paul Brillantes, an incredible independent athlete hailing from the Philippines known for his passion for ultra running, sky running, and cycling.Summary:- Paul recently completed the grueling Deep Japan Ultra (DJU) 80K and placed third.- He discusses his rigorous training schedule that he balances with a demanding job in the BPO industry.- Paul shares some memorable and uplifting moments from the DJU race, including the community support and unique experiences during the race.- The conversation delves into his background, motivations, and his love for challenges.- Highlights a funny story about hallucinations during ultra races and how Paul manages nutrition and recovery.- Paul also discusses future race plans and his experiences with running in the Philippines.- Ends with some fun recommendations for books, movies, and more.Tune in to enjoy an engaging conversation filled with inspiring stories and practical insights from Paul.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to this episode of The Running Voyage podcast, where Linda dives deep into the remarkable journey of Gediminus Grinius, a seasoned ultra-marathon runner and former military member from Lithuania.  They talk about Gediminus's win at Deep Japan Ultra in the 80km race with accumulated vert of over 4000m in a time of 8:55:57. Gediminus shares his story of resilience, discipline, and the balance he maintains between personal life and an extraordinary ultra-running career. Here are some key highlights and links from the episode:**Key Highlights:**- Gediminus's background and transition from military life to ultra-running.- His recent win at the Deep Japan Ultra in Niigata, Japan.- The importance of mental health and how running helped him overcome PTSD.- His love for Japanese culture and the challenges he faces while racing in different terrains.- Strategies for maintaining a balance between family life and a demanding racing schedule.- Personal insights into his training and nutrition strategies.- Future plans and upcoming races.**Links and Resources Mentioned:**- Follow Gediminus Grinius on Instagram- Learn more about the Deep Japan Ultra hereBook Recommendations:  Feet in the Clouds by Richard Askwith  Endure by Alex HutchinsonTV Series Recommendation: Breaking Bad For more information on ultra-marathon running events in Japan, visit https://trailrunners.jp/**Stay Connected:**- Follow The Running Voyager on Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/therunningvoyager/)- Join us at our event in Tokyo on July 27th. Visit our Instagram page for ticketing details.We hope you enjoyed this inspiring conversation with Gediminus Grinius! Here's to a week full of great adventures. Cheers!Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of the podcast, Linda interviews Marco Lui, a journalist with a rich background in running. They discuss Marco's insights and experiences in various marathons and trail races, including his role in the English live broadcast of Fuji 100. Marco shares his journey from financial journalism to running, his experiences at Western States, and his thoughts on the importance of bilingual race broadcasts. They also touch on how Marco manages his personal life with his demanding career. The conversation wraps up with Marco's future projects and some fun anecdotes. Enjoy the in-depth storytelling and insights!Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to our latest race report episode, where we dive into the the Okumusashi Long trail race, set amidst the scenic trails of Hanno, Saitama.Exploring Hanno's Trail TreasuresLocated in the heart of Saitama, Hanno serves as the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating trail running experience. The race route not only showcases the breathtaking beauty of the area but also offers a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. With trails that are as inviting for a leisurely multi-day hike as they are for an adrenaline-pumping race, Okumusashi Long promises an unforgettable journey for every participant.Why I recommend the Okumusashi Long Trail RaceConvenient Accessibility: Situated just a stone's throw away from central TokyoThriving Community Spirit .Bilingual SupportDistance Options, 105k for a proper challenge and the 35k for something "easier"Nice Spacious Race VillageLinksTokyo Trail RunningEpisode with Robert Self Founder of TTREpisode with Drew Damron on Traversing the Okumusashi Long TrailSupport the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In episode 90 of the podcast,  we welcome back Admire Muzopambwa to discuss his recent win at the UTD (Ultra-Trail Drakensberg) race. Having previously interviewed Admire in the show's 20th episode, We reflect on Admire's growth as an athlete. Admire shares his excitement and the significance of his UTD win, alongside victories like Karkloof 100 Miler , highlighting the personal achievement and his journey in trail running. Originally from Zimbabwe and now based in Johannesburg, Admire talks about his running roots, his love for training in the mountains, and his approach to running as a passion rather than a full-time career. He emphasizes the importance of having other responsibilities outside of running and how it balances his life. Admire also credits his success to his team's support, disciplined training, and a strategic approach to racing, particularly noting the guidance from his coach, Martin. The conversation delves into the tactical aspects of racing a hundred miler, from managing mental debates about pacing to trusting his support team for optimal performance. Admire highlights the fun and camaraderie shared with fellow competitors during races and expresses his future racing ambitions, including international events and further achievements in the trail running scene. His gratitude extends to his club, supporters, and sponsors, particularly ASICS, for their support. The podcast episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on Admira's goals and the potential exploration of races in Japan, specifically around Mount Fuji.00:00 Welcome to Episode 90: Celebrating a Milestone with Admire Muzopambwa00:07 Admire's Journey: From Previous Interviews to UTD Victory01:58 Getting to Know Admire: A Runner's Story02:54 The Weather in Joburg and Running in South Africa03:46 Balancing Running with Life: Admire's Perspective05:11 UTD 100: Strategy, Challenges, and Victory14:27 The Mental Game: Strategy and Discipline in Ultra Running17:49 The Importance of Trust and Respect in Coaching22:30 The Joy of Teamwork in Racing25:09 Navigating New Courses and Weather Challenges27:06 Discussing Prize Money and Sponsorship Dynamics30:03 Future Races and Ambitions35:34 The Importance of Trust in Team Support40:30 Closing Thoughts and GratitudeSupport the Show.

Hiroaki is a NorthFace athlete based in Niigata. He was born in Shizuioka and as a young man he dreamt of being  a professional soccer player, it was because he needed to run to stay fit for soccer that he got into running. In addition to being an extremely accomplished ultrarunner in his own right, Hiroaki is also an events and race organiser as well as a podcast host himself. He organises the "Trail Runner's Cup", Mount Awa Skyrace and Deep Japan Ultra. Hiroaki, is also the founder of trailrunners.jp which is an invaluable resourse In this episode we talk a lot about trail running in Japan, Deep Japan Ultra and his vision in seeing the growth and expansion of local trail running at an international level. We also talk about Transgrancanaria, his run at Ultra Trail Cape Town and MtFuji100.LinksTransgrancanaria Ultra Trail Cape TownDeep Japan UltraMt Fuji 100Aki's FacebookSupport the Show.

The iconic Fuji 100, is now part of World Trail Majors, comprising various 100 milers all over the world. This race is about 166km with an accumulative vert gain of about 7039.The race will be broadcast live in both Japanese and English.Links to watch liveEnglish brodcastJapanese BroadcastSupport the Show.

Nicolette is an accomplished   top long-distance and ultra trail runner in South Africa. Before focusing her attention primarily on running Nicolette  was a podium age group triathlete and mountain biker. Nicolette has been competing for almost 10 years and still races competitively.Nicolette  is  a veterinarian by trade and also shares her love of running and years of self-coaching experience with others.  Apart from sport and animals, Nicolette has a passion for life and the natural world. Athletic Career Highlights -RunningUltra Trail Cape Town 2023 100 miler 1st woman, 4th overall (26:11:08)Ultra Trail Drakensburg 2023 100km 3rd woman, 11th overall (14:21:52)Otter African Trail Run - 7 x finisherSky Run 100km (1st)Ultra Trail Drakensberg 100km (1st)UTCT 100km (1st)Heaven & Hell 88km (1st)Dodo Trail 50km (Mauritius) (1st)Les Templiers 75km (France) (Top 10)Mountain Running Championship 40km (Slovenia) (5th)CyclingMagoeba Trek 2022 (2nd Mixed)Magalies Monster 65km 2023 (2nd)Trailseeker Van Gaalens 75km 2023 (3rd)Trailseeker Prime View 75km 2023 (3rd)Support the show

Naoki Shimizu is a GPS artist runner. One of Naoki's principles in his running endeavours is to make running an accessible sport to everyone. His GPS journey began when he wanted to create a sport that his students in wheelchairs could also enjoy. Naoki has run over 12,500km in countries all over the world with over 1350 pieces of art under his belt.In 2023 Naoki and bicycle follow-up record photographer Masuo Keiryou, ran the whole island of Taiwan in a project titled "2023 GPS Run for LOVE" where he spelt out the word love with Taiwan representing the letter O.This month he is starting project Peru, Naoki will be running 3,000km through Peru also celebrating the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Peru, his art this time will be a giant alpaca. Project PeruTabiologyNaoki's InstagramNaoki's FacebookNaoki's WebpageSupport the show

Sheena and Shaun, are the founders of Live Adventure which has been running for over a decade, and they are the race organizers and race directors of the Addo Elephant Trail Run.Addo Elephant Trail RunLive AdventureWashie 100 MilerSupport the show

Bruce Noel Stevenson Fordyce (born 3 December 1955 in Hong Kong) is a South African marathon and ultramarathon athlete. He is best known for having won the South African Comrades Marathon a record nine times, of which eight wins were consecutive. He also won the London to Brighton Ultra Marathon three years in a row. He is the former world record holder over 50 miles and the former world record holder over 100 km, the 100km record was broken by Jim Walmsley in 2019.Fordyce also introduced the Parkrun running events to South Africa in November 2011.This is a collection of free-entry weekly 5k run events. There are now 210 parkrun events in South Africa as of 16 October 2023.Bruce Fordyce ran his 500th parkrun at Delta Park, Johannesburg, the first South African parkrun venue, on 14 October 2023. Parkrun south africa had 26 runners at the innuagural race in 2011, and now has a membership of over 1.4million members.Support the show

Quinlan Faris is an avid hiker, coffee enthusiast who hails from Madison, Wisconsin. His journey took him to Japan 20 years ago after a ten-month spell in China where he was a student of Tibetan Buddhism and Classical Tibetan Language. After a decade in Tokyo, during which time he took multiple back-packing trips to India and Nepal, he moved north to Iwate in 2010. You’ll most likely find him up a local volcano, hiking through a storm, fighting a bear (probably happened) or foraging for wild vegetables to feed his Airbnb guests and entertain his YouTube subscribers.LinksQuinlan's YouTube ChannelQuinlan's WebsiteMount IwateSupport the show

Preeti Maske, from Pune India is a 46 year old wife and mum of two who takes on Big challenges. Preeti is an Ironman and has 5 Guinness World Records under her belt! Preeti started her fitness journey after running a 5k at her child's school and clocking a time of 25 minutes, in her forties.Preeti is the first woman to cycle from Leh-Manali in under 55 hours.Preeti's FacebookPreeti's InstagramSupport the show

Day 21!Today's gem is from Liesl Koch.Link to full episodeSupport the show

Today's gem is from Tobie Reyneke! Now Tobie has completed over 100, 100 mile races.Link to full episode.Support the show

Shiori Statter is one of three women who ran the Tokyo Backyard Ultra this past November.Shiori managed to clock up an impressive 100km, meaning she ran the backyard loop for 20 hours. Shiori is also a professional in the fitness industry. Shiori also takes on challenges such as starting the New Year with a 100km run around her block!" The backyard ultra or last one standing is a form of ultramarathon race where competitors must consecutively run the distance of 6.706 kilometres (4.167 mi) in less than one hour, which is a pace of 100 miles per 24 hours. The race is over when only one runner remains to complete a lap. This runner is marked as the winner and only finisher, with all other runners receiving a "DNF" (Did Not Finish). The runner who completes the second-most laps in a race is often referred to as the "assist", in the sense that their effort is ultimately what determines how long the race is allowed to continue--there is no predefined end length or time in a backyard ultra, as long as multiple runners can complete each loop within an hour." ~ source Wikipedia. LinksTokyo Backyard UltraShiori's InstagramShiori's webpageArnoldRun for Life: How to Run, Walk and Move Without Pain or Injury and Acheive a Sense of Well-Being by Mark CucuzzellaSupport the show

Day 19's gem is from Riana Henning.Full episodeSupport the show

Day 18 - ourgem today is from Cody Reed.Link to full episodeSupport the show

Day 17 is a gem from Dmitri Lechtchinski.Link to full episodeSupport the show

Day 16's gem is from the episode with Deam Wight.Link to full episode.Support the show

Today's gem is from Rhys Foster.Link to full episodeSupport the show

Today's gem is from Emily Hawgood! It's a super gem.Link to full episodeSupport the show

Today's gem is from Robert Self.Link to full episode.Support the show

Day 12's gem is from Alain Riedacker!Link to full episodeSupport the show

Day 11's gem is from Martin Crous.Link to full episodeSupport the show

Day 10's gem is from Jack Davis.Link to Full episode.Support the show

Day 9 is a gem from Hannah Rickman.Link to Full EpisodeThe Spine Race UKSupport the show

Day is Brett Floren's running story. Brett's story is one of the most inspiring stories I have ever had the priviledge of sharing on the Podcast. Brett Florens is a well-renowned photographer as well as an accomplished runner. Brett started running when he was in the Police during a 6-week training camp which kickstarted his fitness and weight loss. Brett enjoyed being fit so much that he used the momentum from that camp to stay fit. His running journey progressed from running 5k's 3 times a week to a half marathon and then a full marathon. Fast forward 30 years later and Brett has completed over 25 Comrades, 10 Two Oceans Ultra Marathons and over 120 marathons all over the world. Brett is also the Chairman of a local running phenomenon in Durban called Regents.Support the show

Day 7 ! Today's gem is from James McDonald.Link to James's full episode.James's InstagramBuy me a  coffeeSupport the show

Today's gem is from Daluhlanga Majeke.Link to full episodeDalu's Facebook PageSupport the show

Day 5 - our gem today is from my episode from 2023. It's not always going to be easy when we take on big challenges, I guess the message is don't give up.Link to full episodeSupport the show

Today's gem is from Alan Mesfin. Alan walked across Japan and his channel is aptly named "Let's Try Something New".LinksFull episode with AlanAlan's YouTube ChannelSupport the show

Day 3's featured clip is from the episode with Nontuthuko Mgabhi.The Marathon's referred to in the intro are the 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days.Links7 Marathons on 7 Continents in 7 DaysNonthu's Facebook PageFull EpisodeSupport the show

Day 2 of 21, the gem in this episode is from Rene Vollgraaff!Rene was the first person to complete AMUK (A challenge to complete 4 100milers in a Year). BTW - she placed third in 2016 at the race referred to in this episode.Support the show

This is a new bonus miniseries to jump start our spirit of adventure.This short clip is from my episode with Pierre  Jordaan which was publisehd last year.This is day one of 21! Support the show

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James is an avid runner, originally from England but currently travelling around Asia, keeping his daily run streak alive.At almost 500 days of running everyday, James sees it as a running challenge as well as an opportunity to combine two of his greatest passions - running and travel.He treats running as mental therapy and openly discusses how it’s benefited his mental well-being over the past few years.James has completed a variety of distances in the UK and around the world, and is currently battling against busy travel days, heat and humidity as well as the unpredictability of new running routes every day.LinksInto the WildBorn to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen -by Chrstopher McDougallJames InstagramAtomic Habits: An Easy and Proven Way to Build Good Habits and Break Bad OnesSupport the show

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Martin is an ultra runner who has competed in ultra road and trail running events from 50km to 100 miles. He was born and raised in Durban, South Africa, the home of the Comrades Marathon – the prestigious 90km road race. Martin studied civil engineering in Johannesburg after spending three years living abroad during his teenage years. After 14 years in the industry, Martin translated the discipline, precision, and creativity gained from engineering into running coaching and hosting trail running events. Martin is a valued member of the Summit Events team, specializing in organizing world-class trail running events. He is also a committed coach who takes pride in guiding his athletes towards achieving their running potential. The athletes who have been guided by him have successfully achieved podium finishes in trail races and have exhibited outstanding performances in marathons across the globe.Martin's InstagramSnowy Mountain EnduranceThe Power of now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment  by Eckhart TolleTraining essentials for Ultrarunning by Jason KoopInto The Wild by Jon KrakauerSupport the show

Linda has three decades of ultra-distance running  experience, she has raced trail, through canyons, on beaches, deserts, islands, glaciers, salt flats, over mountains, escarpments and peaks. Linda is a very experience Ultra Runner, but in addition to that she is also a coach. This episode is for any new runners we talk about * helpful strategies for new runners* how to get started* how to avoid injury  * how to stay motivated * how to set goals LinksJesse Eitzler - MisogiLinda's InstagramLinda's Facebook PageLinda's WebpageSupport the show

This is a series of bonus episodes where I interview 3 coaches. Episode 1 is with Prodigal Khumalo. The advice is for help in setting running goals and acheiving them. We talk about:Starting out as a new runnerHow to set running goalsCommon mistakes that runners makeProdigal is an Ultra distance runner both on road and trail. He is a Comrades gold medalist and hast won the UTCT 100k twice. He founded ORCAS running academy in Durban, where he coaches and mentors young runnersSupport the show

Admire is a professional runner, private chef and father. Admire has numerous achievements including a third-place finish at the Karkloof Trail Series 2021 100 milers, a 4th place finish at the Ultra-Trail Drakkensburg  2021 100km race. Admire also participated in the Nedbank Reunified 50km world record attempt. Admire is also an Asics Front RunnerLinksAsics FrontRunnerAdmire's FacebookAdmire's InstagramChef Admire's InstagramRunning with the KenyansWinged MessengerNedbank Runified  Breaking 50MerlinBoltSupport the show

This is a Facebook Live chat I had with one of the race directors of the Karkloof Trail series, we talk about the runners to watch out for this weekend for the 100 and 50 milers as well as what to expect.Support the show