The countdown to Race to the Stones is on—and we’re highlighting some of the inspiring individuals gearing up for the adventure.
From returning ultra veterans with course records in their sights to first-time runners stepping into the unknown, the start line at Race to the Stones 2025 is packed with stories of resilience, purpose, and passion. Whether they’re tackling 50km or going all in for the full 100km across the ancient Ridgeway, here are just a few of the ones to watch.
Joe Baker – 100k Non Stop
Joe Baker is taking on the full 100km at Race to the Stones as the final chapter in an incredible journey: 100 marathons or ultras in 100 months. With Threshold course records and a recent 1st place finish at Race to the King 2024, Joe’s legacy is already cemented—regardless of whether this one ends in a fairy-tale finish.
Nicki Farrell – 100k Non Stop
Nicki Farrell returns to the trails for what she’s calling her final 100km, completing her Threshold duo after a strong second-place finish at Race to the King 2023. Injury has shifted her focus from competition to completion, but with podiums at events like Run to the Sea and Round Reading Ultra, she’s ready to take on the Ridgeway and soak up the atmosphere one last time.
Hugh Tibbs – 100k Non Stop
Hugh Tibbs is no stranger to tough terrain, with a podium at the Arc of Attrition 2025 and a second-place finish at the South Downs Way 100. Now, he’s stepping up to the challenge of Race to the Stones. With runnable trails ahead and the Ridgeway’s scenery to take in, Hugh’s hoping for a cool day and a strong Race to the Stones debut.
Sophie Carter – 100k Non Stop
Sophie Carter returns to Race to the Stones not just as the reigning champion and course record holder, but as a woman running with remarkable strength and purpose. In 2022 she finished second while 21 weeks pregnant. In 2023, she won while exclusively breastfeeding her 7-month-old. Now, racing solo while raising five children—three under the age of five—Sophie is taking on the Ridgeway again to raise money for Help for Heroes, following her partner’s mental health struggles after military service. Last year, she crossed the line with bloodied feet and a victory. This year, she’s aiming to go faster—and hopefully with less pain.
Andy Monro – Day One Thames Valley 50k
Returning for his third Race to the Stones, Andy Monro is a seasoned ultra runner with a consistent track record across the Threshold Trail Series. At 55, he’s earned podiums and top 10 finishes at Race to the King, Tower, and Stones—most recently placing 5th in the Ridgeline 50k last year. Drawn back by the electric event atmosphere and stunning trails, Andy’s aiming for another top 10 finish on the Ridgeway this year.
Ed Scott – Day 2 Ridgeline 50k
Ed Scott, Marketing Manager at Threshold Sports, is taking on Day 2 of Race to the Stones with his sights set on the front pack. A podium finisher at Chiltern Ridge 50k with recent top-ten finishes at the North Downs Ridge 50k and the North Downs Way 50-miler, Ed is also a proud Western States 100 finisher. He’s ready to test his legs on familiar ground and see how fast he can go.
John Harris – 100k Non Stop
With recent podiums at the Otley High Views Ultra and Norn Ultra 100 Mile, John Harris is bringing lots of energy to the Ridgeway. Known for his bold race strategy—go out hard and hold on—he’s aiming to stick with the front pack for as long as possible and see where the day takes him. Fit, fired up, and ready to embrace the pain, John’s one to watch at this year’s Race to the Stones.
Joe Turner – 100k Non Stop
After a tough DNF at the SDW100, Joe Turner is heading to Race to the Stones with redemption in mind. With multiple ultra wins under his belt—including the South Downs 50k and Maverick Jurassic Coast Ultra—he’s hoping the Ridgeway finally works in his favour after past struggles. With the course record in sight and a competitive field expected, he’s ready to go out hard and make a statement.
Sarah Sawyer – Day 1 Thames Valley 50k
Sarah Sawyer is using Race to the Stones 50k as a key stepping stone toward her upcoming challenges at the Glasgow to Edinburgh Ultra and Tunnel Hill 100. After a top-three finish at Race to the King 50k last year, she’s back for more Threshold trails. With multiple podiums—including a win at the SVP100—Sarah’s bringing experience, consistency, and a love for long Saturdays in the hills.
Sophie Power – 100k Non Stop
Sophie Power is no stranger to the world of ultras, with strong finishes at events like Wendover Woods and the South Downs Way 100. As the founder of SheRACES, she’s helped shape more inclusive experiences across the sport—and now she’s stepping onto the start line at a Threshold event for the first time. Ready for a day of scenic trails and new connections, Sophie’s excited to finally experience Race to the Stones from the other side.
