Sonder Bikes
Dan Marston from Alpkit Ambleside shares his journey to becoming an ultra runner. Starting at a milestone birthday, now he's going the distance fuelled by buttered toast and camaraderie.
The rain hammered on the roof of aid station number seven. We had been running as a trio for a few hours. Now we sat eating toast with butter and jam, building up the courage to step outside again. Toast had never tasted so good! A few more bedraggled runners came in. The warmth of the old building was comforting. Thoughts of sitting here for the night or calling it a day swirled around my head. I looked around, no one was ready to go. Then I stood up, a decision made. Hood up, gloves on, I thanked the volunteers for their time and made for the door. I’d sparked a chain reaction as others followed. The sense of camaraderie pulled us along. Out into the darkness, rain and cold.
Running 50 miles? Not a chance!
These were my words back in 2019 when a friend asked if I’d be up for running Lakes In A Day. He was about to turn 50, I was approaching 40. He suggested this event to mark these milestones in life. I enjoyed going for the odd run, but 50 miles spanning the Lake District? It seemed ridiculous. The idea of a start line full of uber fit ultra runners also terrified me. Against my better judgement, I said yes...
To cut a long story short, that run was the most humbling experience of my life. I did everything wrong: went off too fast, didn’t eat or drink enough, got lost. It was shambolic. I finished cold, wet and sore but with a huge smile on my face. The support and camaraderie from runners, volunteers and spectators was fantastic. I had found my people.
Fast forward to 2026 and running is my main passion. I have found trail and ultra running is such a welcoming space. All my early anxieties were put to rest by the supportive nature of the events. I find it's always good to remember even though it hurts, everybody else is struggling too. We’re all here for a personal journey. The people you meet, friends you make and sights you see. And snacks, lots of snacks!
I love exploring new places on foot. In the past year, running ultras has taken me to Switzerland, Tenerife, Mallorca and Wales. Landscapes so different but filled with like-minded individuals, there for the same spirt of adventure. Running through new landscapes early in the morning or late at night brings amazing experiences. The sun rising over Mount Teide as we climbed the volcano is an image I’ll treasure forever.
What I've learnt doing ultra is not just about how to run further. It’s to give something a try, remembering every small step is a step on a bigger journey. To appreciate the quiet moments in nature. And I’ve learnt sometimes it’s worth just saying ‘yes’.
Dan’s top tips for ultra newbies
- Start slow and then slow down! Ultras are long, saving a few minutes at the start counts for nothing if you burn too many matches early on.
- Eat, eat, eat. Ultras are eating competitions, with a bit of running.
- Nothing new on race day. Make sure your shoes, bag, clothing and nutrition are all thoroughly tested before the start line.
- Plan for aid stations. I like to do a quick MOT as I’m approaching. What do I fancy to eat? How many bottles to fill? Do I need to change socks or shoes? Is my drop bag at this one? Should I sort that blister on my little toe?
- Smile. Sounds cheesy, but it really makes a difference.
Gear for The Lap: the Beautiful Ultra
75 kilometres. One lap of Windermere. No room for kit that lets you down.
As the chosen partner for The Lap, we’ve pulled together a hard-working running kit list you can rely on. Everything here meets The Lap mandatory kit list, tested where it matters: out on the trail.
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