Ben Ridley once said he was never doing Delirious again.So naturally, he’s signed up for the 200 miler in 2027. 😂In this first catch-up of the Delirious West 2027 series, we go back to where Ben’s running started, which is quite a long way from 200-mile ultras. Running definitely wasn’t his thing growing up, and his first parkrun involved considerably more stopping and gasping than running.

Somehow, things escalated.

We chat about how he found the ultra community, his complicated history with Delirious and why, despite having some very good reasons not to return, he’s decided there might be another chapter left in this particular story.

And then there’s the Great Southern Beer Run.

Ben and a group of very experienced mates have come up with a slightly unusual way of tackling the 200 miler together. There is beer involved. Quite a lot of beer, actually. But as Ben explains, the idea behind it is less about the beer and much more about how they want to experience those five days together.

First though, Ben has a completely different challenge ahead of him: Melbourne Marathon.

This could be a very entertaining journey to follow.

Thinking about taking on Delirious West yourself?

If the stories in this series are giving you that little itch to be part of it, have a look at the event details and see whether 2027 might be your year.

Delirious WEST event website:
https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/

Event Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387


💛 Running used to clear your head. Now it’s another thing weighing on it. Let’s change that.

If you’re tired of dragging yourself out the door, feeling guilty when you don’t, or comparing every run to what you used to do, Feel Like a Runner Again is for you.

This practical program helps you quiet the mental noise, drop the pressure, and rediscover running as time for yourself.

Less “I should go for a run.” More “I’ve missed this.”

👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/feel-like-a-runner-again


🙏 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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