Rapid Ascent

Ep. 17: Holly Ranson on Breaking Records, Backyard Ultras & Chasing the 24-Hour World Record


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Episode Summary
In this episode, Jez sit down with Australian ultra-running sensation Holly Ranson, just 11 days before she attempts to break the 24-hour ultra running world record in France.

Holly shares her incredible journey from professional triathlete and NRS cyclist to a dominant force in the world of ultra-endurance running (she's only a few laps of Courtney Dewaulter on the Backyard Ultra and 24-hour world stage!) 

We dive deep into the dramatic story of her record-breaking run at the Surf Coast Century in 2024, and her Australian-record breaking 61 "Yards" (over 400km!) at the Dead Cow Gully backyard ultra this year.

Holly opens up about her past struggles with injuries, the crucial role of nutrition, her training processes and the mental strategies she uses to push through unimaginable pain.

This is a raw and inspiring conversation about resilience, the power of a stubborn mindset, and what it takes to compete at the absolute pinnacle of human endurance. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for a dose of inspiration, you won't want to miss this.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:
  • Holly's unconventional path from triathlon and cycling to ultra-running.
  • The inside story of her dramatic, record-breaking finish at the Surf Coast Century.
  • What it's really like to run for over 400km in a backyard ultra.
  • How Holly is preparing to break the 24-hour world record.
  • The mental techniques and visualisation practices she uses to conquer pain and self-doubt.
  • The critical link between nutrition, injury prevention, and performance in endurance sports.
  • About Holly Ranson
    Holly Ranson is an Australian ultra-marathon runner, sports dietitian and academic. She holds multiple Australian records, including the 24-hour, 12-hour, 100-mile, and 200km distances (as well as the Backyard Ultra record). She is ranked among the top female endurance athletes in the world, with a 4th place globally in backyard ultras and 3rd in 24-hour racing.
    Follow Holly
    Instagram
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    Mentioned in this episode:
      • Margaret River Ultra Marathon
      • Run Larapinta
      • Surf Coast Century
      • Dead Cow Gully Backyard Ultra Documentary
      • Headspace App
      • ...more
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