GB ultra-runner and women’s rights advocate Sophie Power is set to attempt an extraordinary Guinness World Record at the National Running Show, at the NEC Birmingham on 25-26 January 2025. Sophie will aim to break the record for the greatest distance run on a treadmill in 48 hours (female), targeting a staggering distance of 340.36 kilometres (211.52 miles).
Sophie’s attempt will begin during the show’s build-up at 2:30 pm on Friday, 24 January and continue non-stop until 2:30 pm on Sunday, 26 January. Over the 48-hour period, Sophie will push her limits, taking only brief breaks to use the toilet and sleeping minimally, all in her relentless pursuit of this world record.
The record-attempt is the jewel in the crown for what is set to be the biggest National Running Show in the event’s eight year history. Almost 30,000 runners are expected to attend the event over the two days. This year’s Show boasts an incredible lineup with globally recognised speakers including Sir Mo Farah, Spencer Matthews, Russ Cook ‘Hardest Geezer’, Dame Denise Lewis MBE, Jasmin Paris MBE and Colin Jackson CBE to name a few. With an impressive lineup of interactive features and over 250 of the world’s top running brands showcasing the latest in running gear, technology, and nutrition, it’s a must-attend event for runners of all abilities.
The attempt will be meticulously documented, with footage and evidence submitted to Guinness World Records for official ratification. Visitors to the National Running Show will have the unique opportunity to join Sophie on the treadmill, running alongside her to offer encouragement and support. These coveted slots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
In a collaboration that blends science and sport, students from Liverpool John Moores University, led by Dr Jamie Pugh, will monitor Sophie’s physiological responses to the extreme challenge, providing insights into how her physiology changes throughout the course of the run.
Speaking about her upcoming attempt, Sophie said: “I can’t quite believe I’ll be attempting this World Record live at the National Running Show! I’m very nervous but I know that the support will be incredible – and if I need any running supplies they will of course all be on hand! I’m raising money for SheRACES so we can break down barriers to women in sport – so please sponsor me here. With this attempt I’m hoping to inspire other women to take on their own running challenge – whether that’s couch to 5km or their first ultra.”
This isn’t Sophie’s first foray into the Guinness World Records. In 2023, she set the record for the fastest time running the length of Ireland, completing the 558km (347-mile) journey in just 84 hours. Sophie first gained international recognition in 2018, when a photograph of her breastfeeding her three-month-old son during the iconic Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) went viral. Since then, she has become a leading voice for women in endurance sports, founding SheRACES to advocate for gender equality and inspire more women to take part in competitive events.
The Guinness World Record attempt will take place on Stand M80 at the National Running Show. Visitors, ambassadors, and speakers alike are invited to participate and cheer Sophie on as she attempts to make history.
For more information about Sophie Power, visit https://www.sophiepower.com or follow her journey on Instagram at @ultra_sophie.
JOIN RACCOON CEO MIKE SEAMAN AND SOPHIE POWER LIVE ON THE NATIONAL RUNNING SHOW FACEBOOK PAGE AT 8PM ON TUESDAY 21 JANUARY TO CHAT ABOUT HER RECORD ATTEMPT.
ENDS