Bruce Fordyce: ultramarathon legend

Great Traits Project

Bruce Fordyce (@BruceFordycerun) is a South African marathon and ultramarathon runner.

He is best known for having won the worlds largest and oldest ultramarathon, the South African Comrades Marathon (89km or 56 miles) a record nine times. Eight of his wins were consecutive (1979-88). He also won the 100km London to Brighton Marathon three years in a row (1981-83). He is the current world record holder over the distance of 50 miles and the former world record holder over 100 km.

Bruce has written two books about the Comrades Marathon, he was also a sports columnist for various newspapers and he is the founder of Parkrun, a weekly 5km running event in South Africa which is free to all participants. In 2004, he was voted in the list of Top 100 Great South Africans.

On this podcast we talk about Bruce’s running career, his training and preparation for ultra marathon events, the mindset behind endurance events and his views on food and diet.

For legal reasons please note that Bruce’s comments regarding diet and exercise are general comments and do not constitute specific medical advice. Before making any changes to your diet seek professional and medical advice tailored to your individual circumstances. Before you start or stop or change any physical activity or exercise programme always consult your doctor for specific medical advice.

In the podcast you will hear a brief interlude with a third person, this is Bruce’s sister, who kindly let us record the podcast at her house!