Stuart Rainbow has already had a rather complicated relationship with the Delirious W.E.S.T. 200 miler.

There’s been a DNF, a return trip, a finish line… and at one point a very definite “never again”.

So naturally, he’s coming back in 2027. 😂

In this first catch-up for the Delirious West 2027 series, we go back to how Stuart somehow progressed from running 10K on a treadmill to deciding that 200 miles sounded like a reasonable idea.

We also get into the Delirious experiences that have shaped how he approaches the race now, including one fairly memorable lesson about feet, sand and just how much trouble a blister can cause.

But this build has another challenge.

After spending the past six months dealing with a ruptured plantar fascia, Stuart is only just starting to put some bigger runs together again. And, rather neatly, the day we recorded this was exactly six months until Delirious.

The countdown has officially started.

And yes, Stuart still has very strong opinions about gaiters. 😂

Stuart’s video of the blister year: Watch Stuart’s Delirious West video

Thinking about taking on Delirious West yourself?

If the stories in this series are giving you that little itch to be part of it, have a look at the event details and see whether 2027 might be your year.

Delirious WEST event website: https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/

Event Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387

💛 Running used to clear your head. Now it’s another thing weighing on it. Let’s change that.

If you’re tired of dragging yourself out the door, feeling guilty when you don’t, or comparing every run to what you used to do, Feel Like a Runner Again is for you.

This practical program helps you quiet the mental noise, drop the pressure, and rediscover running as time for yourself.

Less “I should go for a run.” More “I’ve missed this.”

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🙏 A couple of big favours

1. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast. It helps more runners discover these conversations.
2. I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you, or someone you know, has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you.

Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club

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