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Kings of the Trail #166

Go Further & Explore More...

"Long distance runners have to be very strange people. You have to really want to do it. You don't have to win or beat someone, you just have to get through the thing. That's the sense of victory, the sense of self worth."

Ted Corbitt


When someone with such vast experience, deep gravitas and rich history, like Ted Corbitt, makes a statement like this, you know it must be firmly grounded in truth. Ted Corbitt was a pioneer in the long-distance running world; the first African-American to run in the marathon at the Summer Olympics and the founding President of the New York Road Runners. He was often referred to as the ‘father of American long-distance running’ and helped revive interest in ultramarathons more than 70 years ago. He still raced in ultras well into his 80s. In his quote, he captures something that not everyone who runs long distances or competes in endurance events can put into words, but I am sure would all immediately identify with. The feeling of achievement and victory that comes from simply following through on a target and completing a challenge. Not for the medals or the PBs, but for the complete belief and confidence in your own value as a human being, striving to go further and explore more. That’s where the true spirit of endurance sports lies and where inspiration and motivation to overcome can be found…


Until next week, be safe and enjoy the trails...


‘The Miler’ as it is known locally, is a brutal 100 mile race, with over 7,000m of elevation in the Blue Mountains, Australia. Every runner has a different reason for tackling it…

Last week I covered the preparations for this world record attempt for the fastest ascent of Everest via the southeast ridge. Here is how it went…

Yellowstone was the world’s first official National Park, inaugurated over 150 years ago. There are now thousands all over the world, these are the best as chosen by travellers…

Rachel Entrekin’s heroics stole the headlines at Cocadona 2026, but this film explores those runners at the back of the pack, running against the clock..

📸 Guincho Beach, Cascais, Portugal



Summer is here! This uplifting club banger sees a welcome return from Stormzy with his first song in over three years. Teaming up on this track with Odeal, who brings a soulful ease, Stormzy’s flow brings the pure summer vibes just in time for the sunshine…


Each week, I update the Kings of the Trail playlist with a new selection of music. Like trail runs or hikes, the playlist will be varied and eclectic, but hopefully, there will be something for everyone to enjoy…


 
 
 

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