Jack Scott

Ultra Runner

About Jack

Jack is an inspirational record-breaking British ultra runner who overcame a gambling addiction in his early 20’s to excel on the international ultra-running scene.

I’m from a small town in Staffordshire called Stone, just south of Stoke on Trent. Born and raised here.

I work in construction part-time, reinforcing buildings and infrastructure with steel in the foundations. I also do some online running coaching on the side which I really enjoy and helps me be imaginative with my own training.

Intro into running

I’ve always been fascinated with really long distance challenges and routes, going beyond the 24 hour mark. The sport is full of variety if you know where to look, I’m partial to a short and sharp fell race every now and then to keep things exciting.

I found running at a time when I needed structure and discipline in my life, I was suffering and caught up in a gambling addiction, which was really difficult for me. Running offered me a way out and I took it.

I’ve been running long distances for around 4 years. Before that I did a year of road running covering shorter distances.

Career highlights

The hills closest to me are called the Roaches on the outskirts of Leek, I adore this place and to win thelocal fell race last November was a very special moment for me. I had a really strong day on the hills I know best, plus my family were there at the finish which was awesome!

Best results to date

In a race environment it would have to be 2nd place at the 2023 Winter Spine Race, finishing alongside Damian Hall with both of us coming in way under John Kelly’s previous Men's record time of 87:38, I ran 85:16.

Top achievements

My best achievement isn’t actually something you can hold or something you can look at on a results page. I've adapted my lifestyle to allow for running to really resonate daily and that’s been satisfying. I’ve got a lot right in-between the lines, all the micro decisions, and with the help of my family, I think I’m navigating everything well and enjoying it all.

Future goals & aspirations

Stay injury free, stay hungry and keep ticking 8/10 of the boxes needed to unlock a peak performance. The balance between athlete and family is a tricky one, but this is a priority for me. Don’t be one dimensional and explore every avenue whilst I’m young.

Your strengths as an athlete

And your weaknesses

I’m learning and developing my navigation skills which is important. Also having the ability to accept that rest is a huge part of training and to prioritise this. Trusting your instincts and not a shiny new idea you’ve happened across on the internet.

Best bit of advice you've been given

Remember you can care too much about a race or a challenge, over thinking the experience and losing sight of what’s really important. Let things come naturally and stick to your values and what you enjoy, be patient.

Lucky charms/ pre-race routines

My nan gave me a pendant before a race following the Offas Dyke path a few years ago. The race was 188 miles and I managed to win and set a record time. I lost the item somewhere on the course, incredibly it was found by a fellow racer somewhere on the trail and I managed to get it back. It stays with me now and is an important item.