In this very special Delirious WEST 2026 wrap-party episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, a whole bunch of us jumped onto Zoom together to unpack the adventure that was Delirious this year… and honestly, it felt a bit like therapy mixed with sleep deprivation and ultra runner chaos 😄
Joining me for this relaxed and very real conversation are:
- Gabe Alves
- Matthew Farrand
- Ben Pyman
- Sym Mercer
- Eve Knudson
- Nicola Frost
- and me, Michelle Frost
Sadly, Kylie Bell, Bianca and Karin Ridley (may have messed up the time zone 🥹 ) , couldn’t make the call – but they were absolutely part of the journey and definitely part of the conversation ❤️
We talk about:
- Why this year felt so much harder for some of us
- DNFs, feet disasters, swollen knees and emotional rollercoasters
- The weird ultra-running amnesia that makes people sign up again 😆
- Running through pain, self-doubt and sleep deprivation
- The incredible Delirious community and volunteer army
- What’s next for everyone (yes… some have already entered next year)
- Why ultra runners are both ridiculous and strangely inspiring at the same time
There are laughs, serious moments, emotional reflections, jokes about nudist beaches, backyard ultras, aid station distances, and a whole lot of honesty about what these events really feel like behind the scenes.
One of my favourite parts of this conversation was hearing everyone describe Delirious in a single word:
“Brutal.”
“Determination.”
“Relief.”
“Purpose.”
“Community.”
And honestly… all of those words fit perfectly.
This episode is messy, heartfelt, funny, vulnerable and deeply human – which probably sums up Delirious WEST itself pretty well ❤️
Thank you again to every athlete who shared their journey over the past months on the podcast. It’s been such a privilege to follow along.
🎧 Grab a drink, settle in, and come join the wrap party.
Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/
Interested in the 2027 DW?
Go join the event Facebook Group so you don’t miss when the race opens for entries in June for new runners – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387
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💛 Want your running to feel lighter again?
If this conversation resonated, you might enjoy The Running Reset – a simple bundle of guided runs and practical tools to help you reset your rhythm, clear your head, and reconnect with why you run.
👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset
If you’re looking for a little more support with your running, I also offer personalised ZenRUN coaching – simple weekly structure, guidance, and encouragement to help you stay consistent and enjoy your running again.
👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/zenrun-personalised-run-coaching/
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🙏 A couple of big favours
1️⃣ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast – it helps more runners discover these conversations.
2️⃣ I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you (or someone you know) has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you.
Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club
or email hello@zenrun.club
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