Meet Simon Dicks: The Transformation of an Ultra-Athlete
From Disdain to Triumph
Simon Dicks' journey from despising running to becoming an accomplished ultra-athlete is nothing short of extraordinary. In 2012, after a discouraging road marathon experience, Simon swore off running entirely. But fast forward to 2020, and Simon was smashing events he once thought impossible. His story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and passion.
Discovering Trail Running
Despite his initial aversion to running, Simon found himself drawn back to the sport in 2016. Deciding to test his limits, he entered the Marathon Des Sables, one of the toughest ultra-marathons in the world. This grueling event, held in the searing temperatures of the Sahara Desert, was the beginning of Simon’s love affair with trail running. The extreme environment and physical challenge sparked a newfound enthusiasm and determination within him.
Jungle Ultra: The Turning Point
With growing confidence and improving fitness, Simon signed up for the Jungle Ultra in the Amazon Rainforest. This event, which involves running through the dense, humid flora of the Amazon, pushed Simon to new heights. By day four, facing the hilliest part of the course, Simon realized he was excelling in ways he never imagined possible. He finished the event in an impressive 5th place, a moment he describes as a crucial breakthrough in his running career.
Conquering the Ice Ultra
After conquering desert and jungle terrains, Simon naturally set his sights on another extreme environment: ice. With a goal of finishing injury-free and aiming for the top three, Simon entered the Ice Ultra. To his astonishment and delight, Simon not only completed the race without injuries but also won first place. Reflecting on this achievement, he recalls, “I genuinely surprised myself at how well I ran, and winning the event was just magical.”
Balancing Corporate Life and Ultra-Running
Simon Dicks is not just an ultra-athlete; he balances his passion for running with a demanding career in the corporate world. His ability to excel in both spheres speaks volumes about his discipline and dedication. Outside of his corporate role, Simon extends his expertise through Focused Running, where he coaches aspiring runners. His journey from avoiding running to becoming a top-tier competitor makes him a compelling and relatable mentor for his clients.
Partners with Bud & Tender
Throughout his journey, Simon has relied on Bud & Tender's premium, THC-free, broad-spectrum CBD oil to support his training and recovery. The natural, plant-based composition of Bud & Tender’s products aligns perfectly with Simon’s holistic approach to wellness and performance. He attributes a part of his extraordinary achievements to the consistent use of Bud & Tender CBD oil, which helps him manage pain and accelerate recovery, allowing him to push his limits responsibly.
An Epic Year Ahead
Simon’s recent performance, including achieving 2nd place in the CTS Dorset event, sets a promising tone for the coming year. With a lineup of ultra-events planned for 2021, Simon is gearing up for an epic season. His continued partnership with Bud & Tender ensures he has the support he needs to excel in each race.
Inspiring Others
Simon's journey from hating running to excelling in some of the most challenging ultra-marathons in the world serves as an inspiration to many. He embodies the idea that with the right mindset, dedication, and support, anything is possible. His story encourages others to push their boundaries and discover their potential, no matter how daunting the challenge may seem.
Connect with Simon Dicks
For those interested in delving into Simon's training philosophy or seeking guidance on their running journey, Simon offers coaching services through his website, focusedrunning.co.uk. His unique background and accomplishments provide a wealth of insights for runners at all levels, from novices to seasoned athletes.
Conclusion
Simon Dicks' transformation from hating running to becoming an ultra-running champion showcases the power of perseverance and the human spirit’s capacity to overcome self-imposed limitations. At Bud & Tender, we are proud to support Simon as he continues to inspire and set new records. His story is a powerful reminder that with determination, resilience, and the right support, we can all achieve feats we once thought impossible.