Simon Dicks
Focused Running was born on a long bus ride back from Jokkmokk, after I won the “Beyond The Ultimate” Ice Ultra. Sitting next to me was a close friend who gave me the confidence to turn my passion and experience into something bigger—becoming a running coach.
I never expected to do so well, but looking back, I can see how far I’ve come since my first Marathon des Sables (MDS). What kept me going? My love for running. That drive carried me through the Jungle Ultra, where I finished 5th overall. That’s when I truly started to understand running—not just as a way to move, but as a skill to master.
Learning how to run properly made all the difference at the Ice Ultra. It wasn’t just about physical strength; it was a combination of physical and mental growth. This is the foundation of Focused Running.
As your coach, I’ll guide you through more than just technique. Together, we’ll work on building both the physical and mental strength to reach your running potential. If you’re ready to chase your running dreams, I’m here to help you get there.
Running, isn't just Running to me.
I’m Simon Dicks, and running isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am and what I love. Running gives me a sense of freedom, purpose, and pure happiness, and I bring that same passion into my coaching. I truly believe that with the right mindset and support, anyone can achieve their running goals, no matter how big they seem.
My own journey has taken me from road half marathons to some of the toughest ultra-endurance races on the planet. I’ve completed the Winter Spine Race (a brutal 270-mile challenge), the Jungle Ultra in the Amazon rainforest, the Ice Ultra in the Arctic Circle, and the legendary Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert. In 2023, I ran my first 100-mile race, the Centurion A100, and have since taken on the Race Across Scotland—pushing my limits every step of the way.
As a coach, I combine my experience, knowledge, and genuine love for running to help you unlock your potential. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best, tackling your first ultra, or simply looking to fall in love with running, I’m here to be your partner in crime on that journey. Let’s make your running dreams a reality.
Some of my Races
BTU Mountain Ultra – Winner & CR
A100 – 6th 17.06
Full Winter Spine – 13th
Race Across Scotland – 3rd
Peak District 100K – Winner
MUIT 115K – 20.45
A100 – 21.19
Endurance Life Ultra’s – 2nd & 3rd
BTU Ice Ultra – Winner
SW50
Eiger 101
The Oner
BTU Jungle Ultra
New Forrest Marathon
Dublin Marathon
Marathon des Sables
Snowdonia Marathon
Vienna Marathon
Reading 1/2 Marathon
Media
My work and races have been featured in national magazines, Trail Magazine picked up my Ice Ultra story and Ultra Runner Magazine asked me to right a piece on the importance of running technique.
