Episode 50

When the marathon is a sprint - ultra distance runner Tom Evans aims to qualify for the Olympics

Published on: 23rd March, 2021

Who is Tom Evans?

Tom Evans was a captain in the army until two years ago. Now he's looking to represent GB at the Olympics in an event he's only competed in once before. His background his ultra marathons and he made a massive impact when he became the best ever European finisher in the legendary 6 day desert race, the Marathon des Sables.

Can Tom Evans represent GB at the marathon in Tokyo?

This Friday Tom tries to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics in what will be only his second ever marathon. He's really, really excited at the prospect and what a story it would be!

Where is the GB marathon selection event?

The event is at Kew Gardens and is limited to around the top 20 runners in 2 races, one of the men and one for the women.

What's Tom Evans achieved?

Tom has been a full-time ultra and trail runner....one of the best...and he reveals that his trail and ultra running background means he's gone in to great detail on the route - which is pretty flat but quite twisty.

What will experience of the army bring to Tom Evans marathon run tactics?

Tom will use his experiences of the army and ultra running to help his race day plans. It's a lap course which Tom believes will suit his style.

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About the Podcast

Destination Tokyo
Olympic and Paralympic stories in the run up to the Tokyo Games.
I’ve covered 5 Olympic and 5 Paralympic Games at home and abroad. Tokyo 2020 was to have been numbers 6. So how are the athletes preparing during Covid times. And what are they learning in the run up to the Games. The Podcast lasts around 10 mins and comes out daily, Monday to Friday. I’m also using it to raise money for Maggie’s Cancer Centres to thank them for the help they’ve given my wife and family during her bowel cancer journey.
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About your host

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Mark Shardlow

Hi - I'm Mark, a Sports Journalist specialising in Olympic and Paralympic Sports. I also help others podcast.