Running Beyond Limits: Sebastian Key On Ultras, Fundraising And Finding The Joy In Pain

What does it really take to run 1,300km around Iceland — and enjoy it?

In this episode of the Sapphire Running Zone Podcast, host Tim Rogers sits down with ultra runner and charity fundraiser Sebastian Key to explore the mindset behind marathon and ultra-distance running.

From his first half marathon in Barcelona to running seven marathons in seven days and then breaking a record around Iceland, Seb shares honest insights on training, injury setbacks, mental resilience, and why enjoying the process matters more than chasing pace goals.

They discuss:

Transitioning from marathon running to ultras

Training smart (not rigid) for the London Marathon

Fundraising strategies that raised £34,000 from his Iceland adventure alone

Running through injury and extreme conditions

Why “when things get hard, remember to dance”

If you’re training for your first marathon, considering an ultra, or fundraising for a charity close to your heart, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world motivation.

Listen now and discover how to run further — with purpose.

For more podcasts go to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have two channels, this one and for members only. If you'd to be the focus of one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

If you'd like to join Seb and support The Running Charity you can find out more here.

 

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords

running, fundraising, marathons, ultra running, charity, personal challenges, motivation, training, mental health, community

Summary

In this podcast episode, Tim Rogers interviews Sebastian Key, a passionate runner and fundraiser, who shares his journey from marathon running to ultra running. Sebastian discusses his early experiences with running, the challenges he faced, and how he transitioned to ultra distances. He recounts his ambitious challenge of running around Iceland and the injuries he encountered along the way. The conversation also delves into the importance of fundraising for childhood cancer charities, motivated by his personal connection to the cause. Sebastian emphasizes the significance of enjoying the running process and finding a charity that resonates with one's values. He concludes by sharing his future running aspirations and his support for others in their challenges.

Takeaways

Sebastian's journey began with a half marathon in Barcelona.
He transitioned from marathons to ultra running for personal growth.
Fundraising for childhood cancer charities is deeply personal for him.
He emphasises the importance of enjoying the running process.
Sebastian raised £34,000 for charity through his Iceland challenge.
He believes in finding a charity that resonates with one's values.
Running should be seen as a positive experience, not a gauntlet.
He faced significant injuries during his Iceland run challenge.
Sebastian encourages others to document their fundraising journeys.
He supports others in their personal running challenges. 

Titles

Running for a Cause: Sebastian Key's Journey
From Marathons to Ultras: A Runner's Evolution

 Sound bites

"I fractured my foot."
"I raised about 34 grand."
"I was really proud of it."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Running and Fundraising
02:30 Early Running Experiences and Marathons
05:40 Transitioning to Ultra Running
12:14 The Challenge of Running in Iceland
22:00 Fundraising Motivation and Strategies
30:00 Future Challenges and Supporting Others