Will Howard - Lakeland 100 Podium and the Joy of the Climb - Season 16 Eps 4

Will Howard joins us to share the remarkable story behind his debut at the Lakeland 100, where he stunned the field by finishing 3rd place in a phenomenal 20:44. From a childhood spent trying every sport imaginable, through modern pentathlon, marathon running, and a breakthrough ultra victory in Minnesota, Will's running journey has taken him to the sharp end of one of the UK's toughest ultra races.

In this episode, Will talks about:

• Growing up around sport and how running always seemed to be the constant thread.

• Competing internationally in modern pentathlon and representing Great Britain at junior level.
• Falling out of love with running during Covid and rediscovering it through marathon racing.
• Chasing a Boston Marathon qualifying time and running 2:40 at Boston.
• Winning the Minnesota Voyager 50 Mile in extreme heat while working in the United States.
• Volunteering at Lakeland 100 before racing it himself.
• The surreal experience of unknowingly leading the race overnight.
• Fuel strategy and taking in more than 100g of carbohydrates per hour.

A particular highlight is Will's answer to this season's theme, Everest, where he reflects on the idea that the real reward is not the summit but the journey itself.

For a runner who only recently stepped up to the 100-mile distance, Will's combination of talent, humility, perspective and sheer enthusiasm shines throughout this conversation. This is an uplifting chat packed with practical ultra-running insights, Lakeland 100 stories, and a reminder to enjoy every step of the climb.

Will Howard Instagram: @wilzo