My Bucket List Race: My First 100 Mile Ultramarathon

This film documents my biggest challenge yet, running my first 100 mile ultramarathon.
On the 10th June, I ran the Centurion South Downs Way 100 mile ultramarathon (SDW100), my first 100 mile ultramarathon race. I have been training for 9 months for this ultramarathon which covers the full length of the south downs way. 100 miles of trail running with 3500m of elevation gain.
Running my first 100 mile ultramarathon has been on my bucket list for years. It was an amazing experience to finally achieve this goal.
Photo Credit: Instagram @further.run

[@mattcoffee1269]

awesome! i recently turned 50...i have just started . i cant even jog 1 mile. i am 275lbs. my feet hurt. my hips hurt lol. i want to do an ultra and one day 100miler...wish me luck! youre very inspiring!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Matt! Well done on starting. I'm sure you'll get there! It took me 6/7 years to get to my first 100 miler from starting running. Just steadily build up your training one week at a time and your body will start to love it!

[@jimwood3096]

Hi - I didn't start running until I was 47 when I couldn't manage 500yds. A clutch of full and half marathons, was followed by a 100km and then the SDW100 Iin 2022. Only wish I'd discovered running earlier - it's a life changer. Good luck.

[@mattcoffee1269]

@@jamesday1 thanks for reply! i had to stop all together for blood pressure stresstests , nuclear stress test and no answers for dipping blood pressure after jogging ( like 78/45!)and doctor recommendation...ugh got up to 282.....didnt care anymore, took matters into my own hands. was 282.5 on may 3rd....i started omad FASTING AT LEAST 20 HOURS A DAY, AND 1000 CALORIES MAX PER DAY HAHA, JUST DOVE IN! also only eating carnivore when i do eat! alot of eggs n bacon! today is day 36 and im down 27 pounds!!!! just had labs done, all in green, off one of my pills, and crushing it. lost 2 waist sizes already, and i have barely even started running again! like literally just working and fasting......im so ready to start putting in the miles soon! i do a 5mile walk jog on sundays and just 2 walk jogs per week total for now usually 4 miles on other one. slow, old man shuffle averaging about 13 to 15 min miles 20 while walking.....by the way after that post i did to you, i was up to 8mile walk jogs before doctor stopped me! dropping the weight is amazing, and i know the jogging will be easier.....255 today! lets gooooo...sorry for long response, was happy to share update! and yes, i will get to an ultra one day!!!!

[@TheGamingLemon]

Good on you man, inspiring af 🎉

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Brad!

[@markg99]

Big kudos, James. After working your way up through the distances you seemed to be really well prepared for this one. Great video too 👍🏻🏃‍♂️

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Mark! Well done on completing your ultra!

[@leonieburford3571]

Congrats on pushing through and completing your dream run!

[@23236638]

Cheers for watching is way too humble of an ending it should be thank you from us for making this masterpiece mate ❤ I finished my half marathon and remember seeing this run appearing on strava and thinking i cant complain today 😂

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Tom! Really nice of you to say! How did the half marathon go? I hope it went well!

[@Simm0700]

Mate that was amazing, thanks for documenting and putting it up for us all to enjoy.

[@jamesday1]

Really nice of you to say! Thanks!

[@poweredbypilatesuk4880]

This is amazing!!! Such a phenomenal achievement! Well done. Enjoy your rest, you’ve earned it!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Yeah, really enjoying the recovery now! Hope your training is going well!

[@gwenncase62]

Your positive outlook and attitude throughout was amazing. Glad I found this, Well done!!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Realy nice of you to say.

[@chloebenn5708]

How beautiful ❤️ Thanks for taking us along, amazing run, well done!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Chloe!

[@CotswoldTrailRunner]

Massive congratulations. Huge achievement and something you'll always remember. You're certainly not alone with your struggles, we all have them and I can totally relate to your feelings, emotions and mental battles during this race. At the time I also declared this race the toughest thing I've ever done. But battle through like you did and also in 22hrs. Amazing effort. Rest well.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Francois! I must have watched your film from last year 5 or 6 times in the build up to this race. Really helped prepare me for it so thanks for sharing your race!

[@ChongPengHow]

Congratulations, James! Well run! nd thank you for sharing your race through this video!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ljwjonesuk]

James, mate, that video was incredible. That race was incredible. Congrats on finishing it and only 2 minutes shy of the target you set so early on and ran with. Near perfect pacing despite all the low times you had in the middle there. That ending, cinematically with the music had me, was sat here clapping you across the line. As you progress as a runner you continue to progress with these videos. Great job man! Can't wait to see what you decide to tackle next!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Really cool to hear you enjoyed the ending. It took me ages to get music that didn't feel cheesy for this but it's always hard to tell how other poeple will feel about it. Still trying to decide what's next but starting to get some ideas 🙂

[@richardsands8402]

Outstanding James!! Looks like a well executed plan in tough conditions. Thanks for sharing with us, loved the video and looking forward to a debrief show. Once again congratulations on a huge achievement 👍🏻👍🏻

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Richard! Planning on filming the recap this weekend so possibly will have it up next week.

[@ariungalindev7426]

Huge congratulations James! You did it bloody well and I’m impressed. Thanks for sharing your journey. All the best 😊

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Ariun! Glad you enjoyed the film!

[@sergeantfox5730]

Great run, great video James. Last year I watched your SDW50 video repeatedly over months to help inspire me and keep me focused to run that race in April. I reckon this year I'll be watching this new video over and over and hopefully it can help me complete the SDW100 next year.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I'm glad it was useful! I do exactly the same thing. So useful when you can't recce the whole route. Good luck with the SDW100 next year! It's an incredible route!

[@lcfclol]

Great video. Can’t believe how fresh you looked throughout, well done! Made me want to enter a longer run!!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I definitely didn't feel fresh but I loved it all the same!

[@brionia9760]

Brilliant racing and video James, so well done. You handled the heat so well, your pacing was amazing. Congrats 🎉

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Brioni! I was definitely on the verge of heat stroke but luckily got through it. Glad you enjoyed the film!

[@negomi340]

Great video and a really well executed run. Congrats on both! This race was on my bucket list for a while but it fell off during Covid. I think I might start thinking about it again now that I've seen the course in such detail. It's really motivational to be able to visualise the course when I'm thinking about it. Thank you!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I would highly recommend it as a race. The hills are definitely a challenge but the views make it worthwhile. You also don't need to worry about difficult terrain so you can just go out and enjoy the race. Hope it goes well when you run it!

[@paulcromie5785]

James, you are an absolute legend and huge congratulations on finishing such an epic event. I tip my hat dude 👏

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Paul! Really appeciate the kind words!

[@trailrunningphil]

Epic James. Very well done mate.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Phil! Cheers for following along!

[@Ultrarunningamber]

What a GREAT adventure. 100 miles complete. Congrats. Hope you are resting up.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Amber! Yeah, definitely enjoying the recovery now!

[@Louis.Martin]

Fantastic video, great editing, lovely shots. The South Downs is such a beaut. Well done mate

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Louis! Really nice feedback. Completely agree, this SDW is stunning from start to finish.

[@sjharris1991]

Fantastic achievement, congratulations. Great video as well, really enjoyed it.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Glad you liked the video. Bit a longer one this time, but didn't want to cut out all the footage 🙂

[@iterato1]

Congrats! Way to get it done. Thanks for sharing your journey.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@laymcintyre]

amazing video and an even better performance. especially in that heat. You seem to get stronger. Congratulations mate. Brilliant

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! It was definitely a surprise to feel so strong at night. I think the slow pacing in the day due to the heat definitely helped! Glad you enjoyed the film!

[@30somethingmike]

Great work James, well done. A great training block and strong performance for your first 100 💪🏼 in that heat too! Hope to see you out there on the trails at some point

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Mike! Yeah, really happy with how the day went! Definitely, I'm sure we'll see each other at an event at some point!

[@jeppyli5832]

Really enjoyed watching the journey. Amazing accomplishment! Congrats!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Chiparwen]

Well Done, great achievement. Thanks for the video, inspiring!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@fillippostapowicz1586]

James, that was the best ultra marathon experience I have watched. Well done on your achievement and a genuine story.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Fillipp! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@FINcLoAk]

Lovely video! Beautiful views. Congrats!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@joshholgate3074]

Amazing brother! Great insight, you dug deep it’s suppose to hurt and be miserable and I’m glad you didn’t try to hide that! What it’s all about well done buddy!! Amazing video! Got mine in June! Stay hard 💪🏾💪🏾

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Josh! Good luck with your ultra!

[@peterjackson8244]

Well done a tremendous achievement. Stunning(!!!) views.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Peter! Agreed, it's a beautiful route!

[@JohnShaw26.2]

Awesome video. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks John!

[@user-ej7hw3ob6x]

Awesome vid…. Thankyou for the brutal honesty .. …. Loved it!

[@jamesday1]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@threethirds6719]

First video of yours I have seen, liked and subscribed! Loved the filming/editing, looking forward to more :) All the best

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Really glad you enjoyed it. It was definitely an epic event.

[@Krilin84]

Wow James. Seriously impressive effort. You made it look annoyingly easy! But following your journey I know you've definitely put in the work to reach this level of competence, so congrats on getting to enjoy such an epically challenging day and achievement! Great vlog too, really beautiful scenery. Will be interesting to hear your further reflections and lessons from the race at some point! 💪👏

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Kristoffer! It definitely wasn't easy. Easily the hardest thing I've ever done. Never been that low mentally in a race before. But yeah, the everything definitely went to plan given the heat! Glad you enjoyed the film! I'm planning on filming a race recap this weekend so hopefully will have that posted at some point next week. There's a lot to unpack that even in a long film like this at 43 minutes, there is stuff missing. I guess a lot goes on in a 22 hour race 😅 Hope your training is going well!

[@danielmcconville5805]

Great effort James well done mate. And kudos on the camera work, really well done and edited. Superb squire! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Think I’ll do the SDW next year looks awesome!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Daniel! Good luck with the race next year! I’m sure you’ll love it.

[@jvaughn090284]

What an absolute joy to watch. First off congratulations, wow, 100 miles. Thank you so much for sharing the journey. Doing 100 miles alone is crazy, but filming it is absolutely outstanding. You sir are an amazing man. Simply outstanding

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Really appreciate your kind feedback. It's so nice having these videos to go back to for the memories.

[@BradleyThompson8]

Unbelievable! You should be extremely proud of yourself. Amazing work 👌🏼

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Brad! It was a great day. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@joebounds16]

I could literally see how happy the ice hat made you. When we’re suffering the simple things are the best for sure ❤❤❤

[@jamesday1]

Definitely! The ice did wonders for my mood! 🙂

[@reluctantfellrunner]

Congratulations. Fantastic achievement James.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@chrishaylett5249]

Brutal 💪🏻 congratulations

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! It definitely was a challenge 🙂

[@tarsembains1824]

Wow! Amazing attitude Well Done

[@philipking3010]

so happy for you, awesome performance, was dot watching your journey! (nice film as well). Grattis, bra gjort

[@jamesday1]

Tack så mycket Philip! Glad you enjoyed the film! The centurion tracking page is great for following runners. Big fan of that tool!

[@jakejames6994]

Awesome to watch mate well done ❤

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Jake!

[@davidwatkins1734]

Outstanding, well done mate.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks David!

[@petergaffney5165]

Great video. Awesome achievement 👍

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Peter!

[@seanbendell]

Great video, such an epic run!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Sean!

[@dannygrays]

Huge congratulations James. Absolutely incredible. Thank you so much for documenting. I'm planning on doing my 1st 50 miler this year and this is so so so inspiring. Well done again. A lovely film which captured everything😊

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Danny! Good luck with your first 50 miler! 50 miles is possibly my favourite distance to run. I'm sure you'll smash it! Which race are you doing?

[@dannygrays]

@@jamesday1 thank you James. I literally just signed up to the Chiltern Wonderland 50 which is on 16th Sept. I've caught your film on that too. I'm making the jump to 50k to that 50 miler!!! Thanks once again for the motivation 😃

[@jamesday1]

Nice! Good luck with CW50. Centurion are extremely well organised events. Really great company to do ultramarathons with.

[@marmotlord]

Really good video, nice balance of commentary, silence, and a feeling of progression

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mikebthevegan8665]

Well done James, a fantastic achievement and a great time. Thanks for filming it all, it was very enjoyable viewing. I loved your positive attitude. 👍. I have my first 100 miler at the beginning of September. Mine is in the mountains of Thailand with 48 hour cut off.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Mike! Sounds like an epic 100 miler. Good luck! I hope you have a great time.

[@lizgreen2936]

Amazing well done and a great video... 🎉🎉🎉🎉🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️x

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Liz!

[@Visablehand]

Awesome watch As someone who grew up in East Sussex lovely to see the scenery. Not often you see somebody so happy to be arriving in Eastbourne.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks William! Yeah, it's a beautiful area. I've definitely never been so happy to arrive at a running track for a 400m lap 🤣

[@thomaswalsh1829]

Congratulations! This is making me think the 50k I’ve been umm-ing and ah-ing about could be possible 🤞

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Thomas! 50k's are definitely achievable! I see 50k trail races as similar to marathons. If you're comfortable running a half marathon then a 50k is achievable, you just need to get your pacing right. Good luck getting to your first 50k!

[@georgemarriott2809]

Dude! Huge congratulations! I didn’t manage to come and cheer on as had to get a 20 miler in myself training for the serpent trail 50k. I can’t believe you and all the runners actually completed the race in that heat, I live on the Southdowns and can appreciate how hot it was on the day, I struggled with my run which was largely shaded so you guys must have been absolutely roasted. Well done James, huge kudos!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks George! Good luck for the 50k. It's a lovely route on the Serpent Trail. Yeah, it was crazy hot. So many people dropped out due to the heat and I think I was extremely close to heat stroke at times.

[@georgemarriott2809]

@@jamesday1 cheers James, I enjoyed your 100k video which got me excited for the event! Well done , enjoy the well deserved rest!

[@jacobvandermeulen1970]

Great result, congrats!!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Jacob!

[@FilmMyRun]

You wanted 22 hours and that’s what you got!! Perfect pacing! Nice colour correction on the film too. Lovely job.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Stephen! Really looking forward to seeing how you and Victoria got on. In awe of you running the grand slam after this race and watching your thames path film.

[@ourwilliam2405]

Well done, inspirational video, thanks

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@mikeyoconnell8720]

Great watch. Been watching ultra documentaries for a couple of years now and slowly trying to build my mileage up to doing one myself. However this was the first UK one I watched and being from down south in Poole myself it was lovely to see some nice views of home as I live abroad now. Very inspiring and bravo mate!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Mikey! Really nice to hear! Really nice area down Poole way. I grew up visiting Bournemouth a few times a year and the trail running over in Purbeck is amazing!

[@Patrick17-]

brilliant watch and a massive achievement

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Patrick!

[@Mookiethedog]

Yo...sick result for your first 100 miler. I'm so impressed and I really enjoyed the video. Peace!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. I definitely wasn't expecting to have such a great race but I loved nearly every part of it!

[@DanCross]

Epic running and equally epic video. Not the easiest race or conditions to make your 100-mile debut!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Dan! Really appreciate that. The heat definitely made it a challenge but the route along the SDW was amazing. Definitely worth it!

[@dameanposner6808]

Super impressive, James. I've been eagerly awaiting your video and wondering how you dealt with the extreme heat. It also looked windless, which makes the sustained heat even worse. Inspirational effort. Your hard work paid off. All the best with whatever is next. Damean

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Damean! The heat was definitely a struggle and wearing a fully black outfit probably wasn't the best decision! But, suncream, lots of water and ice, salt tablets and pacing got me through the heat of the day.

[@cutmorefamilyfuneraldirect4978]

Well done James, amazing effort, you have inspired me to do my first 100 miles.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! That's great. Good luck with your first 100. I'm sure you'll love it!

[@bensmith6633]

Great job James! Fantastic achievement 👏👏👏 Nice to meet you at Botolphs 😃👍

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Ben! Great to meet you too. Gave me a boost before that neverending hill! 😂

[@runningwithstephen]

Wow James, So many highs and low's in one vlog that was epic!! What an incredible journey you have been on. I'm about to take on my first 56 miler in just over a months time. I feel very confident but at the same time respect the distance. Dropped a Sub to the channel. Keep on smashing it mate.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Stephen! Good luck with your first 56 mile ultra! I hope it goes well! I'm sure you'll love it!

[@isabelbohn1238]

Congratulations! And thank you for the beautiful video. I'm considering the 50k for my first ultra, so getting a peek at the trails was great.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! It's a beautiful trail and super easy to follow, so you don't need to worry about getting lost. Good luck with your first ultra! I'm sure you'll love it.

[@SpindlyScoudrel]

Amazing achievement 👏

[@jamesday1]

Thanks very much!

[@nishib89]

Epic!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Nick!

[@nicmarlow6388]

Seriously impressive stuff James, huge well done! There were a couple of people I follow doing this race so I was watching the results with huge interest and was delighted when I saw your name appear! You've trained so hard for this and put in the groundwork. Despite it being super long and mentally tough, you can clearly see you overall really enjoyed it and so you should. Such a beautiful part of the country to run in (even if some of it was in the dark). I can't even contemplate what needs to go into a 100 mile race and the dedication and commitment you've put in over the last year (i've only done 50kms so far but will be signing up for a 100km next year, I really need to sort my shit out and prep properly). Will be looking forward to whatever you have next on your calendar (after a big rest i'd say, you def deserve it!)

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Nic! Lovely feedback! I hope your 50km went well! Which 100k are you planning on running? To be honest, I'm still processing the 100 miler so haven't quite decided what I am doing next! Definitely enjoying the recovery though!

[@nicmarlow6388]

@@jamesday1 I did RTTS day 2 50km last year, and i've done Goring Gap 52km so far this year. I've got day 1 RTTS 50km in 2 weeks (gah!) and then at the start of the year Ridum 50km (which i'm bricking it about!). 100km i've got on my radar is RTTS straight through. I know the area as I live in Oxford so will be easy to train on it (and by that point i'll have done the 2 separate sections of it). Still processing the 100 miler sounds about right, such an achievement to get it done and in a damn good time too. Enjoy the rest x

[@jamesday1]

Sounds like a great race schedule! I've heard great things about RTTS. Hope all the events go well. Sounds like you'll definitely be ready for the 100k RTTS by then.

[@nicmarlow6388]

@@jamesday1 thanks James :)

[@janick9945]

Currently training for a marathon but already dreaming of doing ultras. Thanks for sharing this - really inspiring.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks. Good luck with your marathon!

[@Worcestershire321]

Good man!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@teagalore]

No plans on running an ultra at all (currently training for my first 10k in October) however the scenery on this ultra is BEAUTIFUL! I would run this just for the scenery alone 😃 well done, especially in the heat! I'm from Scotland and the heatwave we had in June almost got me when I was running 😅 hopefully one day I can do this! Congratulations again, make sure you rest now!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Good luck with your first 10k! I definitely recommend getting down to the South Downs if you get a chance but I'm sure you have some amazing trails up in Scotland!

[@timeonfeet]

Super running James and great to meet you in real life and have a chat pre and post race 😃 Really interesting to see the race from your perspective here, you battled through and came out with an excellent result. Great to see it all come together after your training. Hope the recovery is going well and I'm sure I'll see you out there on the trails again soon. Same again next year?! (ok maybe too soon)

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Ben! Yeah great to see you too. My recovery has definitely been more relaxed than your relay racing 😂 A week I would have said no more hundreds but I've spent the past day looking at ultras 😅 Have you got any races scheduled yet?

[@timeonfeet]

@@jamesday1 Good to hear recovery is going good. Yeh I wasn't expecting to do that relay but then my friend's team were missing someone so thought I'd jump in! I've got a swimming race booked next 1km pier to pier in Brighton and then a 6 hour looped course in September but no big plans yet. Looking at what autumn/winter races to do next and then probably another 100 next year. Too many good ones out there really!

[@lizzypicardi]

Subbed. Great vid - I dream on doing a 100 next year. Great work!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Lizzy! Good luck with your first 100!

[@Q8Patriot]

Great video, Thanks alot. Keep it up 🎉🎉😅😅

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@SomePeopleSaySomethi]

Incredible effort to watch!! Well filmed and presented. I was getting tense towards the end as it didn't seem like there was long enough left in the video to show a finish, so I started to wonder if you had completed it.....great bit of tension!! Bravo sir 😁😁😎😎

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it! There were definitely moments during the race where I wasn't sure I would make it.

[@keysersoze5341]

I would prefer the heat to all the mud and puddles that are around now. Great run!

[@MorewithMat]

Great achievement James! 🙌🏼 Would love to do one of these myself one day 🏃🏼‍♂️ Recently completed my first ultra marathon (only just was 52km) running across Ibiza! Maybe a 100km one for me next

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Well done on the first ultra! I'm sure you'll run a 100 miler if you're motivated. Such a great experience.

[@Sejdr]

Very nice trail!

[@jamesday1]

Agreed! It's stunning!

[@jaycalvert8126]

Well done mate

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Jay!

[@alvilda09]

Gratz on you goal

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! It was a great day.

[@henrygale77]

Incredible achievement! I just did my 4th 50km at the weekend there and just signed up for the West Highland Way ultra next year and have the Glasgow -> Edin ultra in October!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Henry! Good luck with your races! That West Highland Way ultra looks epic!

[@jeremyscherbert7336]

I have done Ironman+, goofy race, 55k trail runs... now i want to push farther, looking at a 125k and it scares the crap out of me. 😂 Well done on a 100 miler

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Jeremy! Good luck with your 125k race! If you've done an Ironman and a 55k, I'm sure'll smash the 125k. Just get the pacing strategy right and you'll have an amazing time!

[@Nixsterruns]

What an absolute legend 👏👏 congrats on your major mile stone I'm still small fry lookin to complete 1st 50km 🤣

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I only ran my first 50k 2 years ago so maybe in a couple of years you'll be running your first 100 miler 🙂 Good luck with your 50k!

[@Bradw1982]

Just found your channel and subscribed! I'm attempting my first 50k in a few months and a bit nervous. Thanks for the tips and keep up the great videos

[@jamesday1]

Good luck with the 50k! As long as you have some decent training and you pace the event well, I'm sure you'll have an amazing time!

[@ggbarnum765]

"Stunning"

[@jamesday1]

Totally agree! Beautiful route!

[@alfiestevenson-kelly1962]

Kudos to you, it's great to see this video get the views it deserves. I've really enjoyed your storytelling all the way up to this race - you've got to do another series next year! What's your race calendar looking like for the rest of the year?

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Alfie! Blown away by the amount of views this video keeps getting. Definitely looking to make more race series. I've not got many races planned for the next few months, but I've got Copenhagen Marathon in May and looking at some ultramarathons over in Scandinavia after the marathon. Looking at some faster 50 mile / 100k distance races and some more challenging 100 milers.

[@bev9708]

JAMES!!!! I'm speechless, I'm in tears!!!! Huge huge huge 🎉🎊🏅CONGRATULATIONS!!!!🏅🎊🎉 And absolutely spot on your pacing too, PLUS filming at the same time, I'm just in awe, and also with your fabulous attitude through thick and thin!!! I've been looking for your video every day since that weekend, and what an awesome video you made too of your huge wonderful adventure!! Just wondering, do you follow Ben from Time On Feet who also ran it as his first 100miler too??? Very very curious to see what you get up to next but in the meantime do ENJOY your recovery and once again massive CONGRATS!!!!🍾🥂🏅

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Bev! But first, how did your 50k go? Did you enjoy it? Thanks for the lovely feedback. It really makes these videos worthwhile hearing things like that 🙂 I had a great time out there but it was easily the hardest thing I've ever done. Yeah, I've been following Ben and we met at the start line for the first time. I saw him again at the checkpoint briefly at half way where I got my drop bag and then we had a chat at the finish line. So nice watching his video and seeing how he experienced his first 100 miler and also being there at the start & finish with him. Honestly, I'm still deciding about what's next but very much enjoying the recovery! My body is back to normal but my energy levels are only just recovering.

[@bev9708]

@@jamesday1 OH GREAT James!!! Me too after my 50k, just tired really but the legs felt great ... I even did my local annual trail HM the following Sunday. So nice of you to remember , and I mostly thoroughly enjoyed it... except I got pretty bad cramps for the first time ever in my life running, in both calves, so that was sure a shock!! It started really early too, at only around 18km🤷🏻‍♀ BUT I still got first female, as it was a pretty small event, so that sure felt good and I'm really motivated to keep training hard and do better and go further!!! 👍🏻🏃🏻‍♀💪🏻🙋🏻‍♀

[@jamesday1]

Amazing! Well done! Sounds like you recovered quickly as well! Congrats on the first place! Is that your first race win? There is definitely something about races that issues always occur much earlier than you expect. I've had cramp in the first half marathon of ultras before. Not sure whether it's the early start, the taper, diet or just the body getting over excited for the race.

[@bev9708]

@@jamesday1 THANKS James, yes my first first place, I only started running 3 years ago! I'm 60 so I often win things in my category though! After the cramping I immediately found an interview with an expert on Brodie Sharpe's Run Smarter podcast, where they always focus on the scientific evidence, and it seems that cramps are a bit of a mystery, and not usually associated with the common beliefs either, and we've all gotta kinda find what works for us. Pickle juice shots and/or hot spice just in the mouth DOES actually work in the moment for most people though apparently. I'm gonna put more effort into working on my calf strength at the gym anyway as there is some evidence that strengthening the related area can help!

[@jamesday1]

Yeah, cramp is an interesting one. I was really expecting it to be a problem on the 100 miler, but even at the finish line, I was more fatigued than cramping. When I ran the BWR 50k, I had pretty bad cramping at the finish line.. but not at a 100 miler 🤷‍♂️ I think how hard you pace events is definitely a factor with cramp.

[@shaunprince6986]

I know probably the effort to put a face on and start recording when your in unknown territory. But to keep head strong like you did was absolutely awesome to watch. My hat is off to you my friend. I only started running this year my first 5k was in February and my first ever marathon was in May around lake windermere. My goal in another years or two is to progress into ultras. This race is for sure on my radar but will probably be a couple year's yet to get some respectable training in

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Shaun. Going from a 5k in February to a marathon in May is amazing. Really great progression in that time! You'll definitely want to build up a solid base of training over a longer time frame. It'll make a massive difference with your endurance going into the longer races. I started running in 2017, ran my first marathon in 2018, first ultra in 2021, ran a 50 miler & 100k in 2022 and then finally this 100 miler in 2023. I could have probably stepped up to a 50k earlier than I did but I wanted to get faster over the marathon distance first. Hope your training goes well!

[@shaunprince6986]

@@jamesday1 I hear you. And I agree i should have spanned to time frame out abit further because after the marathon my knees where hurting and prevented me from running for 3 and a half weeks. Now I'm just getting back into it but it feels as though I've lost all my progression since the 3 weeks off 🙈 gutted haha. Keep up the videos for the inspiration 👌

[@jamesday1]

That definitely happens after big races. I'm going through the exact same thing after my 100 miler. Don't worry too much, your base fitness will still be there once you build your training back up. Also, I did a video about my progression as a runner, which covers my first 5 years as a runner. Might be useful if you want to see my journey to my first ultramarathon.

[@shaunprince6986]

@@jamesday1 ill check it out for sure since this is something ill be doing long time. Its all David Goggins fault 🙈🤣

[@GreatCoveRunningTV]

Congratulations! 100 miles is no joke! I did my first 100 miler in 2021 (video on my channel if you want to see my suffering). It may very well be my last. I'm happy I did it, but my body is much happier sticking with 50 miles and under. Thanks for sharing your journey with us!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Totally get that. I struggle to see how people can run multiple 100 milers within a single year. I'll add your 100 miler video to my watch list! Love watching people run this distance because it feels impossible.. even after running it myself!

[@michaelvallely9912]

Brilliant video James, really enjoyed it. Well done on running your first 100 miler! Huge achievement. I'm planning to do a 100 miler next year. I was just wondering what was your normal weekly mileage and how many 50ks + did you do in the build up? Thanks.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Michael! I was doing roughly 100-120km of volume each week but my training was disrupted slightly with a 10 day holiday and no running about 6 weeks before the race. I ran 1 road marathon and 1 50k trail race in the build up and then did 2-3 4 hour long runs. None of my training runs exceeded 4.5 hours in the build up.

[@wallyevans4228]

Congratulations my friend from across the sea! I hope to do my first ultra of 30+ miles (in usa South Dakota) have to be next year but I’ll think of you and all the others who trained for a long time. 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽🌍. I’ll be 69 next year

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Good luck for your first ultra! I loved running my first ultramarathon and I'm sure you will to! The key to these events is getting your pacing right. Pick the right pace and you'll have an amazing time.

[@jamstaa69]

Well done.. I’d like to think I can do this one, one day.. need to get a few more 50k, a 50 miler, 100k.. then the 100 miler.. we’ll that’s the plan.. as long as the body stands up.. but I can guarantee it’ll take me longer than 22hrs.. and with that heat too. 👏🏼

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Good luck getting to your first 100 miler! I'm sure you'll get there quicker than you think. If you told me 2 years ago I would run a 100 miler in 22 hours.. I definitely wouldn't have believed you!

[@1birdwargames587]

I was so happy for you when you rounded the last bend on that track 🎉

[@jamesday1]

Really nice to hear that! It was definitely a big relief to cross that finish line!

[@1birdwargames587]

@@jamesday1 I’m just planing a 100mile next year, it would nice to hear a review of how you felt your training plan went. Just a video idea :)

[@jamesday1]

Nice! Good luck with your 100 miler! I've filmed a recap video today. To be honest, after how the event went, I've got no complaints with my training. The only thing I didn't do from my plan was a 50 mile race. None of my long runs were over 5 hours but I never felt like I was missing the endurance. And I barely tapered - just dropped the intensity but carried on running - and I felt it worked perfectly for me. Got a lot more to unpack from a race perspective though 🙂

[@shirleymoran9740]

Great video. I've just completed my attempts of a100 miler. But I got out of time. Maybe I decided on a wrong event for my 1st ultra. This one looks amazing well marked out.

[@filippodeluca9464]

Congrats mate! can you tell us about your nustrition how did you manage it?thanks

[@kurtcleary6794]

..stunning...

[@jamesday1]

Agreed! It's an amazing race!

[@RunningWithDanny]

Brilliant video James, well put together and inspiring. What camera did you use to film it all bud ?

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I use a GoPro Hero 9.

[@RunningWithDanny]

🤛🏻

[@AR-wn8gw]

Hey James. I already saw your Strava recap and congratulated you but wanted to do so again. Was really some feat, thanks for putting up these clips so we could share it with you. I know in one of your previous videos you said this and a sub 2:30 (?) or maybe it was 3? hour marathon were on your to-do list, but I think you could go even further than this, man. I don't know your financial situation but maybe finding some sponsors to travel and do the races abroad? I think about the USA or even the Mont Blanc trail. Thanks for sharing bud.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Really nice of you to say. Yeah, I'd love to run a sub-3 hour marathon and would like to run some races abroad. I'm lucky that my job means I could probably afford to do a race abroad, I just need to find an event that I excited about running. I need to do some planning now. Really haven't decided what I want to do next with my running so got some thinking to do! This was such a big event that I haven't really thought about what comes next.

[@AR-wn8gw]

@@jamesday1 That makes sense. You have to take it easy for now, recover beyond thinking you are recovered aha. Was really impressed with you being able to hack the heat for so many hours on end. I'm in France and a couple weeks ago I just wanted to do a half-marathon in some trails, but it was about 30 out. It's difficult enough to keep your heart-rate down, let alone keep a good pace. Not to mention that constant voice telling you that ''this is too much'', so hats off to you man, I know how the heat can really mess you up. Would be really cool if you could get abroad to do some different events. Maybe some of the bigger ones could lead to meeting some other KZbinrs in the running community (not sure if your goal is to really expand your channel or not but..). In any case, love your vids and looking forward to the next one pal!

[@jamesday1]

Definitely agree on the recovery! My legs/body feel fine now but my resting HR, HR variability and my energy levels are all telling me I'm not back 100% yet. Thanks, I've never experienced heat like that over an extended period. I was just happy to get out the other side by the end of the afternoon. Glad you're enjoying the videos. Yeah, will have a search for some events. I don't really mind if this channel gets bigger or not, but I definitely want to get better at making films and becoming a better runner so it's great when I hear you and others enjoy the videos. Definitely going to keep making them!

[@adambatchelor1952]

Amazing video - congratulations for finishing. You mentioned you used tailwind - was that your main calories source? Any learning from hydration in the heat - I’m doing 100km in 2 weeks and seeing how much you suffered in heat is scary!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Adam! I used a mix of tailwind and gels (Gu, Maurten, SiS) and then some solid options (crisps & belvita softbakes). Mostly tailwind and gels - I took about 20 gels and 10-15 scoops of tailwind through out. The solid food was more to settle down my stomach when it went bad. Yeah definitely. If it's hot, I would recommend white/reflective clothing. Take on lots of water. I had 3 soft flakes so 1.5 litres and would have struggled with just 2 bottles. When it does get hot, you have to slow down - your heart rate will rise and you'll overheat if you don't slow down. Grab ice at the aid stations if they have it (put it in your hat or in something around your neck like a bandana). I had suncream on - factor 50, and reaplied it multiple times, so despite 10 hours of direct sunlight in 30 degree heat, I didn't get any sunburn. Also get some runs in the heat as part of your training. This race was on the 10th June so the first weekend of really hot weather, so I have no time to train in the heat. Hopefully that helps! Good luck with the 100k. Is it the Serpent Trail?

[@adambatchelor1952]

@@jamesday1 thanks for the advice. Stupidly I wasn’t even planning on taking sun cream in bag. Great tip. It’s the race to stones 100km. I love tailwind but logistics of 20bottles across the day is causing a headache. Did you stuff the third flask on your back?

[@jamesday1]

I've heard that's a great race. Yeah exactly. Started with 3 bottles each with 3 scoops of tailwind powder but only 2 had water in them when I started. The event will have some energy drink at the aid stations. Looks like it is High5 at RTTS. But it probably won't be as strong as tailwind you made yourself. I then had 4 sandwich/freezer bags in my drop bags with the tailwind powder so I could top up my bottles. To be honest, this was a bit of a faff at the aid station so I only used 2 of them. Tailwind do sell individual sachets which you can buy to top up the bottles as well.