More than just a running coach

I have been helping people achieve their ambitions in the mountains for twenty years, first as a mountain leader, then as a highly qualified Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor (WMCI).

Based in the Highlands of Scotland, I worked at the highest level, guiding and instructing all aspects of mountaineering, including navigation, rock climbing, winter climbing and ski touring. I also worked to train and assess other instructors as they worked through their summer and winter mountain leader awards. As an International Mountain Leader (IML) I have led expeditions to Kilimanjaro, Chile and running tours in Switzerland.

During this time, I climbed extensively in the UK and also made many personal expeditions to the European Alps mountaineering, rock climbing and ski touring.

Since 2017 I have been focused on running. I built Trail Running Scotland, a successful provider of training courses and running holidays.

My own running has developed over this time as well. While I enjoy a fast and furious Fell race, I have specialised in longer events; I have now completed 6 successful 24 hour rounds as well as the Cape Wrath Ultra twice, the Dragon’s Back Race and the Iconic Tor de Geants in the Italian Alps.

Developing as a running coach, I am a UESCA Certified Ultra Running Coach, British Athletics (Fell) Leader in Running Fitness, a Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 4 Strength and Conditioning principles coach.

I am currently based in Kendal perfectly placed between the fells of the Lake District and the quiet trails and lanes of the Yorkshire Dales.

I have coached athletes to a huge variety of goals, from Parkrun PBs to single and multi-day Ultra races and 24 hour rounds.

My coaching philosophy is holistic, considering how best to integrate training into your life. It emphasises the importance of strength training, recovery and mobility as well as planning nutrition and event mindset.

A man running on a narrow trail through a grassy mountainous landscape during a trail race. He is wearing an orange shirt, black shorts, a watch, sunglasses on his head, and a hydration vest. The sky is partly cloudy with blue skies visible.

Personal running ACHIEVEMENTS

A smiling man in a bright green shirt and black running vest holding trekking poles, standing in front of a banner that reads 'Cape Wrath Ultra,' indicating the finish of day eight of an ultramarathon race.

A snapshot of what I’ve been up to:

Cape Wrath Ultra winner 2021

Midwinter Bob Graham Round - Solo, Un-supported

Bob Graham Round - Stag do! - Supported

Charlie Ramsay Round - Un-supported

Paddy Buckley Round- Solo, Un-supported

Rigby Round - Solo, Un-supported

Martin Moran Round - Supported

Cairngorm Parkrun, personal project, all 58 munros within the national park in 6 days.

Dragon’s Back Race

Tot Dret

Tor de Geants

Celtman Xtri

8 x Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon up to Elite course

Start your journey

complete this quick questionnaire to get started