#344 Sorcha Loughnane: Breaking Records at Donadea 50k, Trail Running and Much More

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome elite Irish ultra runner Sorcha Loughnane (@sorcha.loughnane on Instagram). Sorcha received the Athletics Ireland Ultra Runner of the Year award in 2024 not only for winning the Donadea 50k, but also for setting an Irish record and a world age-group record with her 3:18 time. She’s had numerous trail wins, including winning the Maurice Mullins Ultra and the Waterville Trail Running Festival overall, plus setting a record-breaking time in the Kerry Way Ultra Lite. In this episode, Sorcha shares her journey from marathon running to ultra trail races, her training philosophy, fueling strategies, and insights into elite long-distance running.17:03 Introduction to Sorcha Loughnane's Running Achievements20:22 First Marathon and Long-Term Goals23:47 The 2018 Dublin Marathon and Race Reflection26:42 Training Solo vs Group Running32:43 Progression in Trail and Ultra Running43:45 Fuelling Strategies for Ultra Races... or what NOT to bring!48:56 Race Day Pacing and Mental Strategies54:37 Training for a 100K Mountain Race in France67:47 Enjoying the Experience Over Competition73:16 Next Goals: Hundred Mile Races and BeyondYou can follow us on Instagram:@anygivenrundaypodcastALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).altarfuel.com The Sports Recovery Kit is everything you need after training, matches, gym sessions and long active days. The full routine, ready to goShop HEREGet the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.