In Episode 2 of Solemate Runners The Podcast (recorded in March 2025), Paul and Aimee dive deep into their experience running the Arc of Attrition 100-mile ultramarathon. Tune in as they share the highs and lows of tackling one of the UK’s toughest winter ultras. From harsh weather conditions to the gruelling terrain, they recount every detail of their journey, including struggles with nutrition, unforeseen challenges, and the bittersweet outcome. Whether you're an experienced ultra runner or just curious about the extreme sport, this episode is packed with insightful reflections and valuable lessons that can help anyone preparing for a long-distance race. It is an honest and heartfelt look at what it takes to push one's limits in the world of ultrarunning.

00:00 Welcome to Solemate Runners

00:42 Introducing the Arc of Attrition

02:04 The Journey to Ultra Running

03:43 Signing Up for the Arc 50

05:16 The Arc 50 Experience

09:20 Challenges and Triumphs

13:05 The Arc of Attrition: A New Challenge

20:48 Preparing for the Big Race

21:43 Race Day: The Arc 100

32:00 Arrival and Pre-Race Observations

32:39 Wave Two Start Experience

34:31 Navigating the Early Miles

36:44 Struggles with Nutrition and Hydration

40:16 Battling the Elements

42:27 Checkpoint Challenges and Crew Support

45:44 Pushing Through the Night

52:29 The Brutal Final Stretch

55:04 Missing the Cutoff and Emotional Finish

57:32 Reflections and Future Plans

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In this inaugural episode of Solemate Runners The Podcast, meet Paul and Aimee, a middle-aged couple with a passion for running. Join them in their running room filled with all things running as they share their motivation behind starting the podcast and YouTube channel. Learn about their background and how they've evolved from casual runners to tackling ultra-marathons and 100-mile races. They discuss their running experiences, the ups and downs, and their future race plans, including a quest to conquer the Arc of Attrition and other challenging events including the Winter Downs 200 in December 2025. Tune in for an honest, humorous, and inspiring dive into their journey in the world of ultra-running.

00:00 Welcome to Our Running Room

00:26 Meet the Hosts: Paul and Aimee

00:45 The Journey to Podcasting

02:03 Aimee's Running Background

03:59 Paul's Running and Sobriety Story

06:45 Our Running Dynamics as a Couple

10:01 From Couch to 100 Miles

14:58 Our First Official Races

16:45 Annual Running Mileage Progress

21:02 The Alcester 10k Races

28:29 Discovering Ultra Running

30:31 Our First Ultra Marathon Experience

37:11 Subsequent Ultra Marathons and Lessons Learned

39:07 Confidence and Preparation for Endure 24

39:29 Heatwave Challenges and Technical Issues

40:08 Aimee's Success and Paul's Struggles

42:06 The Joust and Lessons Learned

43:57 Run Walk Crawl as Arc 50 Training

45:17 The Arc 50: A Proudest Achievement

46:21 Big Bear Events Elephant Challenge

49:25 The Bridge 100: A Unique Challenge

54:51 Endure 24: A Sensible Approach

57:31 The Joust: A Successful Race

59:38 Escape from Meriden Chained

01:05:46 Arc of Attrition 100: A Tough Experience

01:09:20 Upcoming Races and Final Thoughts

Thanks for listening!
Please give us a follow on social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solematerunners
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15Y3JAiQoF/?mibextid=wwXIfr