At JoinTheRun, we love sharing the stories of runners whose journeys inspire, challenge and remind us what the running community is all about.
Today, we’re celebrating Julian Ayres – a Shropshire-based runner, Senior Lecturer and Researcher in Education, and a proud member of the 100 Marathon Club.
About Julian
Julian’s professional life revolves around education, but running has played a huge role in shaping both his personal and academic journey. His PhD research explored how the resilience developed through ultra-running can inform and support resilience in teaching, blending two worlds he’s deeply passionate about.
How His Running Journey Began
Julian first took up running in 2012, simply aiming to improve his fitness after years of college and university life had pushed exercise to the side. What started as a straightforward attempt to get fitter quickly evolved into something far bigger.
From First Run to Ultra Challenges
Since those early miles, Julian’s running journey has grown into an extraordinary list of achievements. He has now completed:
- 59+ marathons
- 57 ultra-marathons
- 3 Ironman-distance triathlons
His progression from casual runner to endurance athlete showcases just how far curiosity, consistency and courage can take you.
Highlights & Toughest Tests
One of Julian’s proudest achievements is completing the Dragon’s Back Race in 2022, a notoriously demanding multi-day challenge that pushes runners physically, mentally and emotionally.
His toughest test to date came the following year: the Spine Race in 2023, often regarded as Britain’s most brutal ultra. The event stretched him beyond what he believed possible, reshaping his understanding of his own limits.
What Running Means to Him
For Julian, running has become essential. It’s his escape from work, a space to decompress, and an opportunity to immerse himself in the beautiful trails surrounding his home.
It’s also deeply social, he’s fortunate to share miles and adventures with a close group of friends who make the long runs, big climbs and occasional misadventures all the more meaningful.
Events & Recommendations
Julian’s top event recommendation is the Pen Llyn Race Series on the North Wales coastline. With stunning views, challenging terrain and an unforgettable atmosphere, he rates it as one of the best running experiences the UK has to offer.
He’s also a huge advocate for parkrun, describing it as one of the most positive and transformative forces in the running community, especially for those just getting started.
Julian’s Advice for New Runners
His biggest piece of advice is simple but powerful:
“Don’t worry about the numbers. Find your reason for running and embrace that.”
Julian encourages beginners to look up, explore, and enjoy each run for the adventure it brings. With so many accessible trails across the UK, he believes curiosity is one of the best training tools you can have; grab a map, follow a new path, and see where it leads.
