With Race to the King just around the corner, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible individuals taking on this year’s challenge.
From seasoned ultra runners with course records in their sights, to inspiring Threshold Ambassadors and our game-changing Ultra 50:50 challengers, this year’s start line is packed with stories of resilience, purpose and passion. Whether they’re racing 50km or the full 100km, here are just a few of the ones to watch at Race to the King 2025.
Sophie Carter – Threshold Ambassador – 100k
Solo parenting five children and running her own coaching business, Sophie Carter is no stranger to endurance – both on and off the trails. Last year, she stormed to victory at Race to the Stones, and set a new course record at Race to the King. In 2022, she finished second while 21 weeks pregnant. Now returning to Race to the King without her family present but very much in her heart, Sophie is chasing another course win while raising funds for Help for Heroes, honouring her partner’s battle with post-military mental health.
Maccartney Cruz – Threshold Ambassador – 100k
Maccartney Cruz is lining up for his fifth ultra and third 100km race, bringing with him experience, energy, and high hopes for a new personal best. He’s particularly excited to be sharing the course with runners from Mafia Moves, many of whom are tackling their first ultra. With a fresh route to explore and strong motivation to beat his Race to the Stones time, Maccartney is one to watch for sure.
Andy Day – 100k
A veteran of some of the world’s toughest ultras, including Spartathlon, Badwater135, and a win at Keys100, Andy Day brings world-class experience and a never-say-die attitude to the start line. At 55, he’s proving that age really is just a number. Having previously finished second at Race to the Stones, he’s now using RTTK as a springboard to chase a top-10 finish at Spartathlon – and to show that grit only grows with age.
Chloe Bletsoe – Threshold Ambassador – Castle 50k
Chloe Bletsoe is hitting the hills of the South Downs with her friend Megan as a test run ahead of their debut 100km at Race to the Stones. With Cambridgeshire lacking proper elevation, they’ve opted for the castle route to shake up their training. Along the way, Chloe will be raising money for Beat, the eating disorder charity, proving that purpose and friendship can power any ultra journey.
Sergio Torija – 100k
Fresh off a 2:38 finish at the London Marathon, Sergio Torija is trading the road for the trails. Representing Sphinx AC and training with New Levels Coaching, Sergio has dipped his toes into ultrarunning and made a strong start. Race to the King marks his 100km debut, and with a growing hunger for trail racing, he’ll be looking to make an impact at the sharp end of the field.
Juliette Denny – Threshold Ambassador – Castle 50k
Juliette Denny has had Race to the King on her bucket list for years – and now she’s finally taking it on. Using the event as a stepping stone towards the UTMB CCC, she’s treating RTTK as her first real test of gear, fuelling, and fitness. With the beauty of the route and the warmth of the Race to the King community as added bonuses, Juliette is eager to toe the start line and see what her training can deliver.
James Burrows – Castle 50k
James Burrows is back for his second go at Race to the King, coming third in the Coastal loop last year. This time, he’s swapping the Coastal loop for the Castle route. It’s all part of his lead-up to Race to the Stones 100km next month. With experience on the trails and a strong engine, don’t be surprised if he puts in an impressive performance along the way.
Tasha Thompson – Threshold Ambassador – Castle 50k
Returning for another go at Race to the King, Tasha Thompson is embracing the challenge head-on. After being pushed beyond her comfort zone last year, she’s come back for more – this time using the event as part of her build-up to the Race to the Stones 100km. Supporting the Miscarriage Association, Tasha is running with purpose, strength, and a whole lot of heart.
Our Ultra 50:50 Challengers
This year’s Race to the King is once again a proud part of our Ultra 50:50 campaign – a movement to increase female participation in ultramarathons and challenge the industry-wide gender imbalance.
Our 2025 cohort of Ultra 50:50 Challengers features an inspiring group of women, many of whom are taking on their first ultra-distance event. From those running in memory of loved ones, to others breaking barriers for representation, managing chronic illnesses, or simply proving to themselves what they’re capable of – each Challenger brings a powerful story and motivation to the trails. To read more about our Ultra 50:50 campaign and meet the full line-up of Challengers, visit their page.
