This episode introduces the unstoppable Karin Ridley—a mining logistics pro by day, trail adventurer by weekend, and proud member of the Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 crew. Karin shares how her journey began with gastric sleeve surgery and a nudge from her mum to try Parkrun, which eventually catapulted her into the world of trail ultras.

Her story is raw, hilarious, and deeply inspiring. From strength training with Susan Grover to finishing the 200-mile Delirious West solo in brutal WA heat (with no crew!), Karin walks us through the ups, downs, dirt naps, and shower stops that made her first Delirious unforgettable. And she’s doing it all again—because once you’ve seen what’s possible, you can’t unsee it.

We chat about the magic of Averley’s running community, the life-changing power of volunteers and pacers (shoutout to Justin and Shannon), and what happens when you go from “I guess I’ll try a 10K trail run” to conquering back-to-back 200-milers in a single year. Karin also shares what it’s like training with a FIFO roster, navigating nutrition post-surgery, and fitting in runs with her husband Ben—her crew chief, best friend, and rock.

Whether you’re new to trails or dreaming of going long, Karin’s story will remind you why we do this: for the adventure, the people, and the chance to find out what we’re made of.

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Why You’ll Love This Episode:

•From 145kg to 200-mile finisher—how she rebuilt her life and mindset

•Trail running as therapy, community, and clarity

•The emotional power of pacing and crewing in ultra events

•Running post-gastric sleeve and the nutrition challenges that come with it

•How strength training helped her conquer injury and stay race-ready

•Her return to Delirious West in 2026—and why it’s not just about the finish line

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Next Big Adventures:

✔️ A brutally beautiful mountain half marathon in Spain

✔️ Six Inch (WA’s trail runner Christmas party 🎄)

✔️ Delirious West 2026 (yep, she’s back!)

Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/

Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387

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1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)

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