Chasing the Finish

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Ben returns to Babbs Mill ParkRun, just a week after the jubilations of Mike’s PB efforts on that very course. Meanwhile, Mike ventures to Horncastle for the Queen Elizabeth Grammar School ParkRun, ticking off a Q in his quest to complete the ParkRun alphabet — and takes on the course for the first time! We also dive into the highs, lows, and everything in between from Mike’s Gainsborough 10K race day, where he clocked his second-fastest 10K time yet! Plus, it’s time for Mike’s game. Can Ben make it 2-0, or will Jake level things up at 1-1? Tune in to find out! Subscribe & follow for more running chat, PB stories, and ParkRun adventures every week. To sign up for the Centurion Running Club Grand Prix 2025/26: https://centurionrc.org.uk/grand-prix Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Mike’s still riding the glory wave of his sub-39 at Babbs Mill ParkRun, he’ll tell you about it. Again. And again. Meanwhile, he’s eyeing up the Gainsborough 10K like it’s the Olympics. Ben braves Sutton Park for a “fun” 1.5K with the kids, and Jake wraps up his charity fundraiser week with a mix of triumph, exhaustion, and questionable life choices. To round it all off, the lads attempt the impossible — ranking every ParkRun they’ve done together. Which course gets crowned the GOAT, and which one’s getting left in the mud (literally)? Tune in, grab a brew, and prepare for hot takes, mild complaining, and the occasional motivational quote gone wrong. To donate to Jake's charity fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jake1759133111862 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. It’s happened, folks after months of “just getting the miles in” (and complaining about his Achilles & Thigh), Mike has finally gone sub-40 again! Paced heroically by Ben who somehow managed to film, pace, and not trip over. We dive into the drama, sweat, and questionable pacing decisions that led to this glorious PB. Stick around for the bonus clip at the end, a rare look at what it’s really like battling it out in the back half of the pack. It’s gritty, it’s sweaty, and it’s very… Mike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Jake and Mike take on Leamington parkrun — and THAT hill (you know the one that makes you question every life decision). Jake’s also somehow managed to leave 15 miles of his running challenge to the final week, what could possibly go wrong? Meanwhile, Ben’s scoping out the Broadway Marathon course under the guise of a romantic weekend… and the lads round it all off with Mike’s brand new game. Who wins? Probably not the hill. To donate to Jake's charity fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jake1759133111862 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. 6 Lads vs. The Napton Hill – Who Survived the 10K? What happens when six “elite athletes” (aka blokes who should’ve stretched more) take on the infamous Napton 10K? Spoiler: there’s sweat, suffering, and maybe even a few personal bests — but mostly complaining about that hill. Ben, Jake & Mike were joined by Chris, Fahmi & Tom for the showdown that’s been in the making ever since someone said, “Yeah go on, I’ll sign up too.” Will anyone conquer the Napton incline without walking? Will there be glory, pain, or just a pub stop after? And most importantly — did anyone actually enjoy it? Tune in to find out how the lads fared in this epic (and slightly chaotic) running adventure! To donate to Jake's charity fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jake1759133111862 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. It’s Napton 10K Week! Seven lads. One race. Unlimited excuses. In this episode, the gang gears up (mentally, if not physically) for the mighty Napton 10K. You’ll hear from Ben, Jake, and Mike plus Blue Tilley, Chris Pritchard, Fahmi Bulaleh, and Tom Hodson as they share their rigorous race prep routines (which may or may not include carb-loading via the pub menu). Will anyone actually train? Will someone forget their running shoes? Will Ben finally admit he’s just here for the medal photo? Tune in to find out how this ragtag group of “athletes” plans to survive 10 kilometres of pure character building. Listen. Laugh. Lower your expectations. To donate to Jake’s 50 miles in October for Prostate Cancer visit the link below: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jake1759133111862 To donate to Chasing The Finish FC at The Mental Health World Cup 2026 visit the link below: https://www.givengain.com/project/chasing-the-finish-raising-funds-for-mental-health-world-cup-108914 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Storm Amy? No problem (apparently). Jake braves Stratford Upon Avon Parkrun for the first time - complete with gale force winds and a questionable life choice or two. Meanwhile, Mike takes on his second ever half marathon in Lincoln! Expect chaos: rushed starts thanks to traffic, a painful finish-line shuffle, and enough sweat to fill the Brayford Pool. Oh, and in peak runner energy — Mike just happened to book a romantic weekend away for his and his wife’s 1st wedding anniversary… which, purely by coincidence (honestly!), was right next to the start line of a parkrun. Love may fade, but parkrun results are forever. Ben brings some devastating half marathon news, while the lads look ahead to Napton only 9 days (on the day of record) away! Will they be ready? Will Jake dry out by then? Will Mike’s wife forgive him? Tune in to find out. To donate to Jake's charity fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jake1759133111862 To view and sign up for the Centurion RC Grand Prix Races, visit below: https://centurionrc.org.uk/grand-prix Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. In this episode, Ben gets ready to wrestle tree roots and angry squirrels at the Wyre Forest Half Marathon, Mike prepares to heroically shuffle through Lincoln, and Jake casually drops that he’s running 50 MILES in October... for charity, of course. (Because pain is more meaningful when it's tax-deductible.) But the real drama? Will Mike finally claw back a win in Jake's Game, or will the universe continue its relentless campaign to humble him? (Spoiler: it's not looking good.) 🎙️ Expect running chat, light roastings, and a healthy dose of denial. To donate to Jake's charity fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jake1759133111862 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. This week the lads took on Sandwell Valley ParkRun — a course that doesn’t just have “a hill,” it has THE hill… right at the start line. From calf-burning inclines to rocky terrain that felt like running on Lego, we battled through it all. Who powered up the climb? Who nearly waved the white flag? And who tried to make a peace treaty with gravity? Watch to see how we survived (barely) and whether we’d do it all again! Don’t forget to like, comment, and let us know your toughest ParkRun hill! To donate to Team CTF at the Mental Health World Cup in 2026 click below! https://www.givengain.com/project/chasing-the-finish-raising-funds-for-mental-health-world-cup-108914 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Jake’s chasing PBs, Simon’s organising actual races, and Mike? Well... Mike’s just trying to survive Jake’s latest game. Spoiler alert: it goes well. This week the lads are joined by Simon, organiser of the legendary Napton 10k, to talk hills, hydration, and how to convince people running uphill is “fun.” Plus, the gang gives a very professional and not-at-all chaotic review of their recent trip to Tamworth Castle Grounds. To book onto Napton 10k 2025: https://findarace.com/events/napton-10k To donate to CTF FC at The Mental Health World Cup 2026 visit the link below: https://www.givengain.com/project/chasing-the-finish-raising-funds-for-mental-health-world-cup-108914 #RunningPodcast #Napton10k #PBOrNotPB #TamworthCastleGrounds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. This week the CTF ParkRun circus rolled into Tamworth Castle Grounds ParkRun – and chaos (as always) ensued. • Fahmi nearly celebrated a finish that… wasn’t actually the finish. • Jake forgot the memo about “pacing yourself” and smashed a PB anyway. • Mike finally remembered what a Saturday morning jog looks like after a 2-week break. • And Ben casually strolled into third place (no big deal). Plus, thanks to Ben’s trusty GoPro, you’ll get a front-row seat to the course, the sweat, and probably some heavy breathing sound effects. To donate to Team CTF at the Mental Health World Cup in 2026 click below! https://www.givengain.com/project/chasing-the-finish-raising-funds-for-mental-health-world-cup-108914 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. In this episode, Jake laces up for his first ever 10km race in Worcester and somehow manages to break a Personal Best. (Clearly, he’s not just running for the fun of it!) Meanwhile, Ben checks out a potential new parkrun in Birmingham (because who doesn't love a good jog and a potential Saturday morning caffeine buzz?) And while the rest of us are stuck in the cold, Mike’s was out in Spain, training for the Alicante 10k soaking up the sun, dodging San Miguel and pretending he’s not enjoying it way too much. Oh, and we’ve got some charity event plans in the works... because nothing says "we're serious runners" like giving back while running at the speed of snails. TUNE IN for laughs, PBs, and a whole lot of questionable running wisdom. You won’t want to miss it! Miles that Matter Link:To donate to Team CTF at the Mental Health World Cup in 2026 click below! https://www.givengain.com/project/chasing-the-finish-raising-funds-for-mental-health-world-cup-108914 To donate to a new potential parkrun at Cofton Park, Birmingham:https://www.gofundme.com/f/Longbridgeparkrun?attribution_id=sl:fc73c259-6614-48c3-8b01-d3a799c632a3⟨=en_GB&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Ben Blakeman heads out to trial a potential brand-new parkrun in Birmingham, joined by Ben Stevens. This exciting test event is being led by Kevin Oakes and the amazing team at South Birmingham Striders Running Club. In this video, you’ll hear the thoughts of both Ben’s and Kevin on how the very first trial went, what makes this course special, and what it could mean for the Birmingham running community. If you love parkrun, running clubs, and exploring new routes, this is one you don’t want to miss! Let us know in the comments what you think of the potential new parkrun — would you run it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. The lads grab a cuppa (tea for some, coffee for others!) and chat all about their morning at Beacon parkrun. From first impressions to finish line vibes, nothing gets left out. Plus Ben, Mike & Jake sit down to review the GoPro footage Ben captured on the course. Expect laughs, honest takes, and maybe even a few surprises along the way! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Jake's back from France! He squeezed in two holiday runs (and plenty of croissants) before hitting another midweek 10k PB in preparation for his first ever official 10k race, the Worcester 10k 2025. Ben's gone all in and signed up for a trail half marathon in Worcestershire this November. Mud, hills and chaos await...oh, and he's also entered a kids' race (don't panic, he's not elbowing toddlers out the way). Meanwhile, Mike just can't stop talking about his Wembley 10k (again), throws in a lap around the NEC and treats us all to some truly dodgy accent impressions. Plus, will Mike finally mount a comeback in Jake's new game or will Ben continue his victory streak? If you're into running podcasts, 10k training, PB chasing or just hearing runners chat absolute nonsense, this one's for you!Miles that Matter Links:https://www.justgiving.com/page/james-mclaughlin-runthenations-270https://www.fundraising.sands.org.uk/fundraisers/amytolliday/walk-100k-september-25 #runningpodcast #10ktraining #Worcester10k #halfmarathontraining #PBChasers #trailrunning #funnypodcast #runningcommunity #Wembley10k #runnerslife #ukrunning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey and Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Two sweaty heroes took on the Wembley 10k in the blazing sunshine. Cam smashed out a shiny new PB, while Mike clocked his second fastest 10k of the year (and only complained about the heat every other kilometre). Proof that sunburn and success can go hand in hand. Follow Chasing the Finish Podcast: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/19HdYzeKbG/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chasingthefinishpodcast?igsh=bDIzeWdmend3dmc1&utm_source=qr TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@chasingthefinishpod?_t=ZN-8xBF9zHH2gc&_r=1 Follow the lads running Instagram Accounts: - Ben There Ran That - Mike Does Goes Running - Ramsey on the Run Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey and Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. This week, the lads welcome Kevin Oakes from the South Birmingham Striders Running Club for a chat about an exciting potential new parkrun coming to Birmingham and to lift the lid on what makes their running club tick. Follow Chasing the Finish Podcast: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/19HdYzeKbG/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chasingthefinishpodcast?igsh=bDIzeWdmend3dmc1&utm_source=qr TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@chasingthefinishpod?_t=ZN-8xBF9zHH2gc&_r=1 Follow the lads running Instagram Accounts: - Ben There Ran That - Mike Does Goes Running - Ramsey on the Run #parkrun #runningcommunity #southbirminghamstriders #midlandsrunning #fitness #workout #runningmotivation #trailrunning #fitspo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey and Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. Watch as Ben, Mike, and friend of the podcast Tom take on the mighty Coventry ParkRun. Ben’s job? Play drill sergeant/pacer for Tom’s hunt for a shiny new PB. Mike’s role? See if his legs still remember how to run after that half marathon… or if they’ve officially filed for retirement. Tune in to hear how the lads got on. (Spoiler, there’s sweat, questionable pacing decisions and maybe even glory. Follow Chasing the Finish Podcast: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/19HdYzeKbG/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chasingthefinishpodcast?igsh=bDIzeWdmend3dmc1&utm_source=qr TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@chasingthefinishpod?_t=ZN-8xBF9zHH2gc&_r=1 Follow the lads running Instagram Accounts: - Ben There Ran That - Mike Does Goes Running - Ramsey on the Run Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the running podcast where three mates from Birmingham swap miles for mics and share more than just blisters! Ben Blakeman, Jake Ramsey and Mike Duffy, a trio at very different points on their running journeys, but all equally skilled at dodging training plans and telling a good story. This week's episode is packed with drama, sweat and just a hint of chafing. We've got all the tales from the Solihull 5k & Half Marathon where Jake smashed his debut 5k, and Mike heroically survived (sorry, completed!) his very first half marathon. Meanwhile, Ben's booked himself a trail event because apparently running on flat ground was too easy, and the lads debut a brand new game. Will Mike redeem himself, or will it be another glorious shambles? Tune in and find out. Follow Chasing the Finish Podcast: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/19HdYzeKbG/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chasingthefinishpodcast?igsh=bDIzeWdmend3dmc1&utm_source=qr TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@chasingthefinishpod?_t=ZN-8xBF9zHH2gc&_r=1 Follow the lads running Instagram Accounts: - Ben There Ran That - Mike Does Goes Running - Ramsey on the Run 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6574558676516864 This Week's Miles that matter segment: https://www.justgiving.com/page/poppylouise-adams #RunningPodcast #HalfMarathon #5KRun #RaceRecap #RunnersWorld #SolihullRunning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hear from Ben Stevens, Jake Ramsey & Mike Duffy as the lads complete their respective distances on a hot day in Solihull. Interviews conducted by Ben Blakeman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices