This episode is a little different. With the three races in three months, I am going through a cycle of race, recover, train, taper and right now I am tapering for the River Ayr Way Challenge Race (my personal nemesis).

So, I am going to take you through how I am preparing myself. Even if the training hasn't been perfect and I am not where I want to be I want to make sure that I do what I can in the taper to make sure I turn up at the start line as best I can, and for you I will be breaking down the art and science of 'the taper'.

With a final long‑run recce in the bag, I share a full training update before diving into what tapering is, why it matters, how to fuel during it, and how to handle the mental chaos that comes with reduced training.

Whether you’re preparing for your first ultra or your fastest one, this episode gives you the strategy, structure, and confidence to arrive on the start line fresh, sharp, and ready to perform. Might even be just in time to help you out.

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In this episode, I share a real update on life, training, and racing after a tough few months.

I talk about supporting my mum in long‑term dementia care, a demanding spell at work, and how both forced me to step back and rethink how I balance ultra‑running with real‑life responsibilities.

I break down my return from an Achilles injury, the confidence I gained from the Kaim Hill race, and a deeper look at the Ochils Ultra — my first proper test back. I also talk through my build‑up to the River Ayr Way Ultra and my plans for Ultra England at the end of October.

If you’re navigating injury recovery, busy life seasons, or trying to stay consistent with ultra‑running when things get heavy, this episode is for you.

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Kayleigh Webster is back on the podcast for her third appearance — this time diving into what Backyard Ultras reveal about people, why Beecraigs has become such a special community event, and how injury has reshaped her approach to running and race directing.

We get into:

• Why Backyards feel more communal than competitive

• The atmosphere at Beecraigs and the role of spectators

• Family influence, Barkley dreams, and “unreasonable” goals

• Watching runners change hour by hour

• How a busy race calendar can strengthen the running ecosystem

• Injury, identity, and learning to train differently

• Zwift, patience, and redefining what it means to be a runner

• Leadership, judgement, and caring for athletes

• What’s next for Beecraigs — and for Kayleigh

Quick training update from me: the Achilles is settling, mileage is building again, and I’m finally stringing together some consistent weeks.

A brilliant conversation with someone who’s shaping the Scottish ultra scene in a really thoughtful way.

If you are looking for coaching then hit me up on insta @davidultrarunner or search on the Team Runrun website

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