Q&A with Jacob Adkin

Following his 6th place in the World Mountain Running Championships on Sunday, and as he heads this week to 
Keswick to live and train (and unfortunately to race for Keswick AC), here is a Q&A with the Moorfoot Mountain 
GOAT.

This has been a breakthrough year for you. What has made the difference?

Ultimately it’s down to how much more enjoyment I get back from running now and having a full year free of 
injury. Previously, training could feel like a chore at times, particular when juggling university life as well, but recently
 I have been able to appreciate the sport for what it is and how much it can give back. This is both in terms of the 
physical side of running, but also the brilliant people I have met along the way. I have been very lucky to have spent 
a good portion of this summer living and training in Chamonix in the French Alps, as well as travelling to races in 
amazing places, and this has only amplified the experience. I have also been fortunate to benefit over the last few 
years from the Borders Athlete Support Programme which helped me through previous  injuries and support from 
Salomon UK.

What has it been like working with your new coach Robbie Simpson (Commonwealth Games marathon 
bronze medallist) and what have you learned from him?

I have always been inspired and motivated by Robbie’s work ethic, commitment and outlook of the sport. Having 
chatted to him at races and on trips, he has so much great advice and knowledge which he willingly shares to help 
others. As a friend as well as a coach it works really well, creating a dynamic training situation which allows me to 
adapt things if necessary, while still maintaining the quality. I have gained a lot more confidence in my running and 
racing through working with Robbie. The knowledge he has gained from racing at the very top is invaluable. 

What did it feel like standing on the start line in your first senior World Champs?

I felt a little nervous, but mostly relaxed as I knew I had done everything I could to be on that start line amongst 
some of the world's best mountain runners. Wearing your country’s vest gives you a sense of pride like no other, 
and I was just looking forward to testing myself in my first senior world championship race. 

What was your race plan and did you stick to it?

These races always start fast. Having seen most of the course in the days beforehand, and with the finish line at 
a high altitude, I knew a more conservative start was more appropriate. Sticking to this, I was able to work my way 
through the field over the first half of the race, obtaining a good position to then work hard over the last tough climb 
to the finish. Overall, the plan went to plan!

How did it feel when you crossed the line in 6th place?

It didn’t hit me straight away - I was too exhausted! From fellow GB teammates cheering me on I knew I was up 
to 6th, but I was so focussed on trying to catch the runner ahead (Norwegian Johann Bugge was first European 
home just six seconds ahead) that I finished without registering the bigger picture. Only afterwards when speaking 
to teammates and the managers did it start to sink in! 

For the running nerds out there, what did your final training week look like.

Tapering down in race week is always tricky, as the nerds will know! 

A short run on Monday after a final hard weekend the week before. Then another easy run (c.1hr) on Tuesday with 
strides. A short hill rep session on Wednesday (3min reps) followed by a short easy run on Thursday before 
travelling. A chill run on the first half of the course on the Friday, and a final easy run with strides on Saturday 
before the race on Sunday. 

And how does this compare to your average non-race week?

A non-race week would have longer easy runs, two key sessions, and a good long hilly run. So definitely more 
mileage and quality, but still just as enjoyable!

What have you learned from the whole experience of the World Champs and would you do anything 
different next time?

I have learned more than ever that even at the biggest races, it is important to try to treat it like any other race. 
Focus on your own running, rather than letting the enormity of it all get to you. This race was one of those days 
when it just clicked, but I’m sure something will come to mind in the future that I think I could have done differently!

What's next for you in the coming weeks? R&R or do you have any more races in mind?

A bit of down time with just easy running and no specific race plans until October when I hope to compete in the 
British Fell Relays, before getting into some cross-country racing. 

You are just about to move to Keswick in the English Lake District. What's behind the move?

After finishing university this year, like many I had no idea what to do. Moving to the Lake District where I’ve 
often been for holidays will be a great new place to live, work and train, and I’m looking forward to the new 
opportunities it will bring! 

And for the winter and next summer, what are you hoping for now that you have established yourself as 
one of Europe's elite mountain runners?

I haven’t set goals yet for this winter, but I hope to remain fit and try some new and some familiar races through 
the cross country season. Back in the hills next summer I’d like to be able to do some more travelling and racing 
around Europe to see new places and hopefully gain more international experience.