In this special episode of TRAHK, we sit down with Hong Kong-based ultrarunner Nikki Han fresh off her epic finish at the 2024 Summer Spine Race—a 268-mile monster across England’s legendary Pennine Way. From heatwaves to hallucinations, Nikki breaks down her experience on one of the world’s toughest ultras.

Then, we’re joined by her coach Ryan Whelan, who shares his insights on her training, race strategy, and what it takes—mentally and physically—to conquer a course designed to break you.

🎧 Whether you’re a Spine-curious runner, a training geek, or just here for the stories that make our sport so powerful, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode:

• What it’s like to race the Summer Spine as a Hong Kong-based athlete

• Nutrition, pacing, sleep deprivation, and mental toughness

• How Nikki prepared, and what surprised her most

• Ryan Whelan’s coaching perspective: planning for a race that doesn’t forgive

• Teaser: another Hong Kong runner, Tim Jowett, is coming soon in our Spine mini-series!

🌍 Powered by the Trail Runners Association of Hong Kong

🎙️ Host: Steve Pheby