We are getting very close to the Delirious WEST 2026 start line, and in this check-in Ben Pyman is sounding calm, thoughtful and ready to get on with it. We chat about his biggest theme this year - consistency - and how a solid stretch of steady training has given him confidence heading into race day. Ben shares how his taper is unfolding, what he’s learned from last year, and how he’s keeping things simple with self-crewed drop bags, careful caffeine planning and a very practical approach to race prep. There’s also plenty of classic ultra chat - nipple band-aids, aid station strategy, maths failing mid-race, near misses on technical trails, shoe choices, socks, and the strange little details that suddenly feel very important when you’re about to run through the wild for a very long time.

What I loved about this conversation was Ben’s perspective. He’s thoughtful without overcomplicating things, grounded in experience, and genuinely excited to get back to Walpole and see his people. We also talk about how lucky we are to do these events at all - to be supported enough, healthy enough, and slightly mad enough to disappear into the trails for a few days and just keep moving forward. If you’re heading to Delirious, or even just love hearing how runners prepare for big adventures, this one is full of little gems, laughs, and those very real pre-race feelings we all know so well.

Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/

Event Facebook Page – 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/buy

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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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