Meet the #GBUltras Ambassadors

I have been running around 10 yrs , starting with shorter distances from 5 – 10km ,  then as i became fitter and loved the feeling of running, i remember saying i would never run a marathon. However, once you start running and get the taste for it , i just asked myself WHAT NEXT??…

Before i knew it i was doing a marathon, then onto 55km race in the lakes in 2017 , then 50 mile GB ultra races,  which led me to take on GB ultras grand slam back in 2019 which was an amazing experience with such a top race events series.

I find helping others so rewarding and that’s why i have decided to become an Ambassador to provide support and advice to runners, within GB ultras running community, alongside helping the events team on race day.

I discovered running in my mid thirties. Previously a hiker, long distance back packer, climber and mountaineer, I had my exploring come to a stop when I moved to work in the Middle East. Most of my fitness activities were confined to the compound where I lived. Although there was no shortage of swimming pools and gym facilities on campus, I needed something more, so I joined the group who ran around the compound like hamsters in a cage. Then I broke away and sneaked off compound with a partner in crime, running at 4.00 in the morning, to avoid the police. I then joined Jeddah Road runners. Women, very much in the minority were fiercely protected by the men, who encouraged us to take part in the race series.

At this stage, I was hell bent on speed. I was a road runner and just trained for winning short races. I was proud of my 17 minute 5K times.

On return to the UK and in my next decade, I was into half marathons and marathons. I didn’t do so badly with these either, but my speed was slowing. I was still only running on road, leaving the trails and mountains for hiking. It was at this time that I started hiking long distance events. I didn’t know they were Ultra distances. And then I saw people running them. That was it. I needed to do this and now into my next decade, I had found my happy place and I was hooked. Crossing the border into yet another decade, going even more steady, probably the accumulation of injuries etc, I don’t always make the cut offs for timed events, but I still like entering, being at the start line and going as far as my journey takes me.

I have been a member of GB Ultras for six years, and this is my third year as an Ambassador. I love being a volunteer, and many runners have met me and my trustee campervan from most of the GB Ultras Events.

I think my favourite GB Ultras Event is Ultra Wales 50. There is so much variety on this route and in my opinion, one of the most challenging.

From sea to summit, woodland and estuary, this stunning route just captures my heart and imagination.

I enjoy being an Ambassador because I think that GB Ultras is a fantastic, inclusive provider, with both runners and volunteers at centre. Everyone is valued and made to feel special.

The Ambassador team represents runners from across the community with complimentary strengths. I see myself, as a champion for the more mature runners, who may have their doubts as to whether they should be running Ultras. I want to explore how this demographic reacts to training, nutrition, rest, and to share common experiences, enabling us to keep running and fit.

I once again feel honoured and humbled to be serving you as an Ambassador for the 2025 season.

I have been running for over 12 years and took up ultra running within a few years of lacing up my trainers – my first ultra being a self navigation 80 miler, which was a very steep learning curve! I have since been fortunate enough to podium at many ultras across the UK. 

My love of ultra running led me to entering my first GB Ultras event back in 2018.  I was immediately hooked and have ran most of their events, many multiple times.  My favourite being those along the stunning Southern Upland Way.  I love being an ambassador and part of the GB ultra family – coaching, guiding, chatting, volunteering and supporting runners to achieve their goals, however big or small. Nothing beats seeing runners cross that finish line. 

Hi I’m Claire & I’m 43 years old. I love playing sports – as a kid I was always outside with a ball at my feet and took part in my first running event at age 10. After realising I couldn’t combine my professional career with the demands of being part of a football club, I turned my focus to 100% running. Perfect for mental health & managing life’s stresses!!

It took me many years to pluck up the courage to run a marathon, even longer to run an ultra and even then I refused to go beyond 100km – believing it was impossible.

So what changed………….. in 2020 I found a lump on my breast & got the diagnosis no woman wants to hear. It was my running that kept me sane throughout the invasive tests before the doctor confirmed mastectomy was the only option I had. My physio clearly didn’t know me when he said you’ll need 12 weeks post op recovery as I was back running after just 2 weeks.

Crossing the finish line of @gbultras @ultra_scotland 107 miler in June 2023 & being awarded 3rd place female was one of biggest achievements so far. I’m never running again I shouted out to which Laura Yates replied I’ll see you at RAS 2024. Shock horror!!!

What a difference a few days of recovery makes. I signed up to volunteer for RAS 2023 where I met so many inspirational people. A truly rewarding experience I’ll never forget. My RAS 2024 journey was something I shall always treasure. It may have ended in DNF and I was completely floored, I quickly dusted myself off and went back a few weeks later to complete the rest of the route (127miles) solo.

There is something very special about GB Ultra events – I love taking part in them and I also love volunteering. 2024 was my first year in role of GB Ultras Ambassador and it has been a great honour to be part of the GB Ultras family. I’ve met so many like minded people, made friends for life, plus been hugely inspired to keep fighting for my own goals. I look forward to continuing in the Ambassador role for 2025 and helping each of you smash your goals!! With over 30 years of running experience, and now clocking up over 3,000 miles each year, I have lots to share!!

I didn’t start running until 2013 at the age of 49, after competing in Ironman UK triathlons in 2017 & 2018 i needed a new challenge and discovered GBUltras. My first ultra (chester 50) was in 2020 and in 2024 I managed to complete the 50 grand slam, including my favourite route over the SUW (Scotland 50) and probably the most challenging race I have ever done (Snowdon50).
I have had fantastic support over the years with GBUltras, met some fantastic inspirational people and visited some stunning locations and being an ambassador i am looking forward to being enable to support people in achieving their goals and hopefully contribute to the successful continuation of GBUltras.

Emma started running in 2018 and completed her first marathon, Manchester Marathon in 2019. She went on to complete more marathons including London Marathon but then wanted a bigger goal and was introduced to the exciting world of ultra running. Emma was instantly hooked, completing her first ultramarathon GB Ultras Manchester to Liverpool in 2023. This led to completing GB Ultras 50 mile 5 event Slam in 2024,

Emma’s biggest and proudest achievement so far. Emma loves the adventure side to ultra running and fascinated by what the mind can push the body to do. She loves meeting new people, supporting runners and encouraging everyone to believe!

I was born in Hungary and have been living in Scotland for 20 yrs now. I started running 10 years ago to lose weight and now loosing weight to enable me to better. I’m happy on trail and competitive on road, I also do parkruns and 100 mile events too.  I can’t get enough of running, so I coach runners when not on my feet.

My name is Gareth Jones and I’ve been running for nearly 4 years.

Since then I’ve completed some of the longest Ultras in the UK including Offas Dyke, Cambrian Way and The JOGLE.

My adventure started 10 years ago whilst I was battling through drug addiction and mental health issues. Since then I’ve become part of this ever growing Ultra community and very fortunate to be a GB Ultras Ambassador, which saw me complete the 50 mile slam last year and it will always go down as one of my greatest achievements because the memories I made and the friends I found along the way will stay with me forever.

Thank you for this opportunity, The Mental health wanderer.

My running journey began in 2005 but I started to race when I joined a club in 2013. Since then, I have done over 50 half marathons and 12 marathons, 6 of which have been part of my world majors journey. After completing my first ultra I became hooked! I have completed M2L,G2E, Chester 50, Warrington Way a few times and Ultra North. I have unfinished business with Wales 50 and will be back again to tackle that run head on! This gives me even more motivation as a GB Ultras Ambassador. I love meeting like-minded people and spreading the word about the GB Ultras, the events are second to non and are extremely well organised. Everyone you meet has their own goal and I like to be an example that anyone from any walk of life can do it! One of my favourite parts about being an ambassador is supporting both the runners and their families on race day. Everybody goes through the Ultra journey together and to see people achieve things they never thought they could is inspiring. See you at the next Ultra!

More about me coming soon!

I have always had a keen interest in Running, mainly half marathons, in 2019 following Research into Ultra Running, I came across a local 70 mile ultra, entered and absolutely loved it, this was followed by a 100 mile ultra in 2021.

Natural progression and further research led me to Race Across Scotland which I participated in 2022 and this was when my journey with GB Ultras began.

Race Across Scotland was an amazing event, it pushed me to the absolute limit, and was a once in a lifetime journey that I will never forget.

In the days following the event the GB Ultras Team advertised for Ambassadors for the 2023 Season, after completing the Race I spoke to Wayne and thanked him for all of the support from everyone involved, I will never be able to repay everyone for the support provided to myself and Willow Burn Hospice before, during and after Race Across Scotland.

The Ambassador role consists of supporting other members of the group both in person and on their social media platforms, it also allows you the opportunity to volunteer at events that you aren’t participating in and spreading the word about the group. This was something that I believed I could have made a positive contribution to, I applied and was successful, I have been an ambassador for two years now and it’s such a privilege to be able to be part of a community that enjoys the sport as much as I do.

My name is Ian Patterson, and I’m very pleased to be able to represent GB Ultras as an ambassador again in 2025. I first came across GB Ultras and ultrarunning about 7 years ago and firmly believe the support and community is a pivotal part of the events and the experience.

Hi, I’m Karen, or like being referred to as Kaz, or even Big_Kaz. You’ll understand why when you meet me… 🦒
Have been running about 11years ago but only got into Ultra distance in 2017.
Since then, I’ve done the majority of the Scottish Ultras and been reasonably successful. I’ve been lucky enough to have podiumed in a few 😊
Got involved with GB Ultras a few years ago and have enjoyed volunteering and partaking in some of their races.
Just like Ultra running, life throws it’s challenges and I’m currently going through menopause. All we can do is keep showing and trying our best.

Look forward to meeting you at some of the races.

I began my running journey during the pandemic, and it was in 2022 at the GBUltras Penine Barrier that my passion for ultramarathons truly ignited. This experience opened my eyes to the stunning beauty of nature and revealed the incredible limits our bodies can surpass. My favorite running destination is Snowdonia, where the majestic landscapes demand humility and respect, especially as the weather can change unexpectedly at the summit. The trails offer profound life lessons, and I’ve had the pleasure of meeting wonderful people who share the journey, creating a sense of camaraderie as we cross the finish line together. The volunteers at these events are exceptional; they provide support, encouragement, and everything we need to keep going. The sense of fulfillment is immense, which is why I feel compelled to give back. I’m here to help in any way I can.

More about me coming soon!

My running journey began during the 2020 lockdown. With gyms closed and nothing else to do, I started running the occasional 5K while on furlough from work.

In 2022, I took on my first marathon, and just nine days later, I ran my first ultra—Manchester to Liverpool. From that point on, I was hooked.

Fast forward to 2025, and I’ve completed several 50-milers and 100-milers, with my most recent achievement being the Race Across Scotland. It’s by far my biggest accomplishment to date.

The Race Across Scotland remains my favourite race. There’s something incredibly pure about a multi-day event—the nights, the support, and the camaraderie. It was an emotional and unforgettable experience.

As an ambassador, I hope to inspire others, especially those new to the sport, to push beyond their limits and pursue what may seem impossible.

Hi, I’m Matt and I’m a trail and ultra runner based in East Lothian, Scotland. I love travelling, good food, country music and the great outdoors.

I took on running in 2016 and a year later I ran my first marathon. In 2020 I was involved in a motorcycle accident, which resulted in a broken leg and a dislocated shoulder. Following an operation, which left me with a permanent screw in my knee, I endured 6 months of intensive and painful physiotherapy and I had to learn to walk again. It took a while but I eventually started running and building my strength and endurance again.

In January 2022 I completed my first ultra distance run and to date, I have completed a number of ultramarathons, including the Race Across Scotland twice and several 50, 60 and 100 mile events. This year I’m taking on my third Race Across Scotland.

Since joining the GB Ultras community, I found that motivating and helping others achieve their running goals is just as rewarding as crossing the finish line yourself! I’m always happy to share my experiences and offer advice or encouragement.

The GB Ultras community is the most supportive and inclusive ultra running community in the UK and you’ll see me at a few events this year, either racing or helping out. Come over and say hello!

More about me coming soon!

More about me coming soon!

More about me coming soon!

I have been running since 2009 and running everyday since May 2019. I’ve got a thing for timed events having come 2nd in a 36 hour non stop race amongst others. It’s nice to be selected as an ambassador once as it’s more than an events company, it’s a community and being apart of that community is what running is about. One of my favourite events is the Hope Trail Festival, having been involved since its start, it’s great to be apart of it as it is what GBUltras is all about. Volunteering to help set it up leading up to the start is one of my favourite parts of the whole festival. 

More about me coming soon!

I’ve been running since the age of 18 having spent many years serving in the Army. Since leaving in 2018 i was introduced to the awesome GB Ultra team and completed my first Ultra in Chester 50 the same year. Since then I’ve completed most of the GB Ultra races including RAS and the 50 mile grand slam. My favourite ultras are the mountain-based events therefore I’d say my preference is Snowdon, Pennine barrier and Scotland. I’ve been an Ambassador since 2021 and love nothing more than interacting with fellow Ultra enthusiast be it during runs or when I’m helping out as a volunteer on CPs. GB Ultras have a great team of Ambassadors who are more than happy to discuss and advise on any of the events, so please don’t hesitate to approach us if you see us around the circuit

I’ve been running since I was 30. I’ve done 25 ultra races and my proudest moment was finishing race across Race Scotland with the support of my friends and family.
I’m generally a mid pack runner and although I don’t break any records, when it comes to racing, I can usually tough it out and get the job done (eventually). I can usually be found out and about in the Brecon Beacons and black mountains regardless of the weather.

I started ultra running 6 years ago, with the Chester 50 being my first ever ultra, and have since completed many different events. In 2023 I completed the GB Ultras slam, which improved all aspects of my running and increased my knowledge and experience of the events. My favourite event is Yr Wyddfa Snowdon Ultra, a testing but beautiful event! The best thing about being an Ambassador is introducing new people to ultra running and helping others, especially busy working mums like me, believe that they can achieve their goals. 

More about me coming soon!

I’ve been running seriously since 2020 and favour the ultra-distances and passionate about pushing the physical and mental limits beyond what is perceived as possible. I’ve completed many ultramarathons since 2020, from 50 milers to 200+ milers and even multi day solo challenges.
Whilst I haven’t claimed a podium finish (just yet), I do have a handful of top 10 finishes which I’m more than happy with. One of them coming in a favourite GB Ultras race of mine, the Chester 100. Other personal achievements include completing the GB Ultras 50-mile Grand Slam, a solo attempt of the Pennine way, running North to South and covering over 200 miles in 100 hours raising awareness and funds for the Prostate Cancer charity and my biggest to date, completing the GB Ultras Race Across Scotland 215-mile race, my favourite GB Ultras race, and one which I have unfinished business with, so I’ll be back!
The support I’ve received over the years from the GB Ultras Community & Team has helped me reach my goals so far and recognise my achievements to date. I’ve witnessed GB Ultras, and the Community grow and grow over the years and it’s been exciting to have been part of that journey so far, but the main thing is that the values and passion remains consistent and that’s why I love being a GB Ultras ambassador. I’m proud to represent a Team, a Community and a Brand with the same values and passion I have in providing the support, guidance and help to everyone, to allow them to push beyond their limits and reach their goals. And realise that anything is possible.
I will be competing at some GB Ultras events this year and on the Race Day Team at other events as well as at some training runs, so hopefully I get to meet as many of you as I can and provide the support to give you the confidence to achieve your goals.
Keep smashing it guys!

My running journey started in 2016 after a health check at work. I was advised I could do with a little more exercise and running was suggested by the nurse at work. So September 2016 I started with C25K around my local country park. 1st 10k in the November raising money for cancer research. By 2019 I’d done a few half marathons and 2 marathons.  2nd March 2019 was my First 50 mile event with GB Ultras. My 1st ever attempt at the distance. Since that 1st event I’ve completed it 5 times. Each time a different experience. I’ve seen the GB Ultras Community come on leaps and bounds since then. The last few years I’ve volunteered at as many events as I could. It’s so rewarding to give something back to the community. From filling the water containers, feeding runners at CP’s to pinning race numbers on folk who are a little nervous before a race. I especially enjoyed helping out so many other runners when I crewed some friends at RAS. I gave water to a number of runners. One guys smile when I offered him a doughnut is something I will remember for a good while, another chap enjoyed a extra cheese buttie. I lent my dryrobe to another lady so she could get a little nap. Those little things are what stick with me. To try and help and support runners at whatever stage of their own journey they are on. After all we are all there for the love of the sport and community that is GB Ultras. I hope to be a good ambassador for the 2025 season.

Enjoy the little things, muddy trails with like minded people for the win. 

I started running properly in 2021 post back surgery! I watched a couple of ultra running documentaries and the rest is history. My first ultra event was the Pennine Barrier , I knew it was going to be tough but the last 20 miles were by far the hardest I’ve ever ran. My favorite race is Yr Wyddfa Snowdon ultra, the scenery is stunning and while the terrain can be challenging at times… it’s a truly epic adventure! This community is phenomenal and by far the most supportive in any sporting environment I’ve been in. That’s why being an ambassador means so much to me and I’m super excited to be back on the team. 

My name is Tracy Halligan.

My true love is running, inspiring and motivating people with their running journey. Nothing beats that finish line feeling.

My running journey started about 20 years ago challenging myself to see if I could run around the block without stopping, I would then continue to keep pushing myself to sign up for races and then I eventually signed up for my first 10K and then onto a half marathon and eventually a full marathon.

My first ultra marathon was Warrington way 40 miler. After completing this I jumped straight onto the M2L 50 miler, Chester 100 miler and I have also completed lots of solo running ultramarathons and fundraised on Christmas Day for children’s charities. 

I absolutely love trail running and adventures and the outdoors.

My biggest challenge this year will be the race across Scotland which is a  215 mile race. I am really excited about it, and I am looking forward to meeting new ultra runners and learning the route.

I truly am grateful and feel very honoured to be chosen again as an ambassador for GBultras it is a fantastic community and club to represent.

Looking forward too seeing some of you on a start line, do not be shy and come say hello.