What if I told you the secret to breaking records on the world’s toughest trails—and living to tell the wildest stories—comes down to chasing the thrill of the unknown, thriving on the brink, and finding awe in every grueling step?

In this dynamic and engaging episode of the Trail Chasers UTCT Special, Musa and I are thrilled to sit down with the remarkable Robbie Simpson: 2x Ultra-Trail Cape Town PT55km champion, record-holder, and Adidas Terrex athlete.

Robbie takes us through his evolution from a young, aspiring runner in the Scottish Highlands to becoming a fixture on the global trail stage, highlighting his unique ability to excel in both trail and road running. He shares his strategies for race day preparation and recounts his experiences with the environmental challenges of racing across different terrains.

Reflecting on his journey from joining an athletics club as a child to representing Scotland and Great Britain in international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games, Robbie dives into his training approaches and the mental and physical balance required for success and longetivity in running and trail running.

Known for his strategic mindset and unwavering dedication, Robbie shares pivotal moments in his career, including his love for Ultra Trail Cape Town and the mountains of Europe. He opens up about the highs and lows, including injuries and breakthroughs, and how he maintains his mental game during the toughest races.

He also sheds light on his involvement with the Adidas Terrex team, his coaching experience, and his future goals in trail running, including a possible shift to flatter, longer races. Throughout, Robbie emphasizes the cultural differences between trail running in Europe and South Africa, as well as the importance of community and support within the sport.

Robbie’s conversation is filled with insights on the benefits of running in diverse terrains, the mental resilience needed to conquer challenging trails, and the power of perseverance. Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner or new to the sport, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and the relentless spirit of trail running, reminding us all of the thrill of the climb and the value of community.

A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.

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