Phil Roberton, founder of the Flawed Hero Movement, shares his experiences setting up the unique Flawed Hero Marathon. It's a 1.66m loop course around Letchworth, Hertfordshire that starts at midnight and it's likely to be the most inclusive marathon in the world...with more of a focus on fundraising than anywhere else.

Find out more about the event here

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• The Flawed Hero Movement was inspired by a personal experience with Phil's daughter.
• Running can be a powerful tool for community connection and mental wellness.
• Fundraising is a core element of the Flawed Hero Marathon, making participants accountable.
• The event emphasises inclusivity, welcoming runners of all abilities and backgrounds.
• Phil provides extensive support and resources for participants beyond just the race.
• The marathon is designed to be a therapeutic experience, not just a competitive one.
• Community engagement is crucial for the success of the event.
• The unique midnight marathon format offers a different perspective on running.
• Phil aims to raise significant funds for charities through the event.
• The Flawed Hero Movement has the potential to expand and inspire similar events globally.

• Running with Purpose: The Flawed Hero Movement
• Phil Robertson's Vision for Inclusive Running

• "I'm a hero to her, but I'm flawed."
• "Life is tough, but we can help others."
• "Fundraising gets quite addictive."
• "It's not just about the running."
• "It's about doing things right."

Take part in one of the big UK running events and chances are you'll see plenty of runners wearing some weird and wonderful costumes. Fancy dress running has grown hugely in the last 20 years and for some charities and businesses it's a big part of their event strategy. On this podcast one of the UK's most successful costume makers give us a great insight into this fascinating world. Join Pete from Jellyhead Studios as he chat to Tim Rogers, a veteran of more than 20 marathons in fancy dress.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

Podcast notes

• Fancy dress running has become a significant part of events like the London Marathon.
• Costume design often stems from charity themes or Guinness World Record attempts.
• Lightweight materials are crucial for comfort during long runs in costumes.
• The design process includes considerations for visibility and practicality.
• Charities benefit from increased exposure and donations through unique costumes.
• Custom costumes can take anywhere from a week to several weeks to create.
• Fittings are optional but can be helpful for specific designs.
• Training in costumes is essential for a successful running experience.
• Unique costume requests can lead to memorable and fun designs.

• "It's a big part of the London Marathon."
• "We've made a lot of bizarre costumes."
• "It's great advertising for charities."
• "Training in a costume is essential."
• "It's a completely different experience."

Join us on episode 1 as International athletics commentator Tim Hutchings travels to some of his favourite race destinations. Commentating on marathons and race meetings means lots of travel and this episode covers the first two months of 2025 when Tim spent much of his time in the Middle East and the sub continent. What are the differences between Mumbai and Kolkata and between Dubai and Ras Al-Khaimah? Find out here.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 other channels, one on runner stories, another on fundraising and a third on training support. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

PODCAST NOTES

• Kolkata is a culturally rich city with a unique marathon.
• Giving money to beggars in India can perpetuate the issue.
• The Kolkata 25K is a unique race distance in India.
• India has a growing middle class that is increasingly participating in sports.
• Dubai's marathon is known for its fast course and luxurious setting.
• Event organisation in the UAE is highly professional and well-coordinated.

• "I was very, very lucky to be given this lifeline."
• "You can chat to the athletes and catch up with them."
• "You can't just turn up and go, yes, no, yes, no."
• "You want to make the viewer feel in the environment."
• "Pacemakers should have to drop out."
• "I'm very conscious of the privileged life I lead."
• "Kolkata is a gorgeous city. I love it."
• "It's one of the only 25Ks in the world."
• "There's a massive burgeoning middle class in India."
• "Dubai is a city that's constructed out of the desert."
• "They do an amazing job with these events."

Tim Hutchings has one of the most recognised voices in the running world. Whether it be at a Diamond League event in a leading stadium around the world, or at a top marathon, Tim is likely to be leading the commentary team. Following his highly successful running career, culminating in an Olympic Games 5000m final, Tim moved into the world of commentary and in this fascinating podcast he shares with us what's involved...and it's not all glamour.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 other channels, one on runner stories, another on fundraising and a third on training support. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

PODCAST NOTES

• Tim Hutchings transitioned from a competitive runner to a commentator.
• Freelance commentary often involves last-minute arrangements and logistics.
• Preparation for races includes gathering information on elite athletes.
• Race week typically starts three to four days before the event.
• Commentators often work in challenging conditions on race day.
• Co-commentators provide valuable support and perspective during broadcasts.
• Commentary requires a balance of preparation and spontaneity.
• Post-race reflections help improve future commentary experiences.
• Athletes often leave immediately after races, limiting post-race interactions.
• Successful commentary relies on teamwork and effective communication. Marathon coverage is significantly more complex than other sports.
• Pacemakers should not compete against runners during the race.
• Unexpected competitors can create unique commentary challenges.
• Tim feels privileged to have a career in sports commentary.

• Behind the Scenes of Sports Commentary
• The Journey from Runner to Commentator
• Race Day Realities: A Commentator's Perspective
• Freelancing in Sports: The Life of a Commentator
• Preparing for the Big Race: Insights from Tim Hutchings

• "I was very, very lucky to be given this lifeline."
• "You can chat to the athletes and catch up with them."
• "You can't just turn up and go, yes, no, yes, no."
• "You want to make the viewer feel in the environment."
• "Pacemakers should have to drop out."
• "I'm very conscious of the privileged life I lead."

Josh Preister, the Executive Director of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, tells us how the organising team rerouted the 2024 Big Sur International Marathon in less than a month, as a result of a major slip out!

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 other channels, one on runner stories, another on fundraising and a third on running events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

PODCAST NOTES

Race directors face many challenges, but has Tom Bedford from the UK had more than his fair share? From the pandemic to unseasonal heat, and much more, Tom, from Run-Fest, tells us how he and his team have dealt with them all and why they are optimistic for the future.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 other channels, one on runner stories, another on fundraising and a third on running events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

Ever wondered where your race entry fee goes? Andy Hully, owner and race director of the Milton Keynes Marathon Weekend in England, breaks down the cost of putting on a running event. With an expected field of over 10,000 runners in 2025 these costs are very significant!

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 other channels, one on runner stories, another on fundraising and a third on running events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

Not all running events are owned by commercial businesses. Some are owned by running clubs, some by councils and some by charities. So how do those owned by charities differ from those owned by private companies? Fundraising becomes a priority, not a 'nice to have' like it can do with some other events. Jane Appleton, from Cornwall Hospice Care, tells us how her charity manages Run Falmouth, a half marathon in Cornwall, South West England.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 other channels, one on runner stories, another on fundraising and a third on training support. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

PODCAST NOTES

• The Run Falmouth half marathon has experienced significant growth in both participants and funds raised, highlighting the importance of effective fundraising for charities.
• Stewarding fundraisers is crucial to encourage them to go beyond the entry fee and raise additional funds. Personalised support, incentives, and recognition can motivate participants to raise more money.
• Logistical challenges in organising the event include working with volunteers, coordinating with local organisations, and managing road closures. Community support and the presence of volunteers and spectators greatly enhance the race experience.
• Lessons learned from each event are valuable for improving future races. Sharing knowledge and advice with other charities organizing races can be beneficial for everyone involved.
• The success of the event depends on the support and generosity of the community, volunteers, and sponsors.

• Lessons Learned and Advice for Charities Organising Races
• The Growth and Success of Run Falmouth: A Fundraising Perspective

• "The sponsorship that yourselves offered us this year was just incredible."
• "People sometimes are worried to fundraise because they think it's going to be difficult."
• "The earlier the money comes in, the better."