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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