DUNCANS STORY
When Duncan Preston first signed up for the Wolf Run, he never imagined he’d one day be running 20 miles a week. At the time, he was exhausted, struggling to run for more than five minutes, and in the middle of a nine-year IVF journey to start his family. But he set himself a simple goal: "Just finish."
What he didn’t expect was how much more he would gain along the way.
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Taking the First Step
Duncan, like many first-time Wolf Runners, worried he wouldn’t be fit enough. The thought of being left behind or struggling alone held him back from running with a pack.
"I was too worried about everyone storming past me that I didn’t want to risk running in a pack… I thought the obstacles and mud would give me cover for what I thought to be a shamefully slow time round with marshals tidying up behind me.”
Instead of letting self-doubt win, he laced up and took on the challenge solo. What he found was an event that was about much more than just running, it was about resilience, camaraderie, and proving to himself that he was capable of more than he thought.
The Unexpected Power of Community
Duncan started as a lone runner but quickly found himself surrounded by encouragement.
"Over the last four years, I’ve gotten to know a number of regular Wolves. We spur each other on when we see each other round the course."
Wolf Run isn’t about times or competition; it’s about pushing yourself and supporting others. From marshals cheering on runners to fellow participants offering tips on tackling obstacles like the infamous Mudsucker, Duncan experienced a true sense of camaraderie.
Transformation: From Plodder to Fitness Role Model
After completing his first Wolf Run, Duncan didn’t stop there. Instead, he used it as a launchpad for an entirely new lifestyle. Today, he runs around 20 miles a week and commutes by foot.
"I’d never have been so fit or pushed myself without Wolf Run. I’ve also used it to encourage friends and family who say they can’t do a 5/10km obstacle race to see they can - and more importantly, can have fun doing it."
His journey from struggling to run five minutes to thriving in fitness shows that anyone can start somewhere and improve.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Duncan’s motivation wasn’t just personal - he wanted to be a fit, active dad and set an example for his kids. His eldest son, now six, is already eager to take on the Junior Wolf Run when he turns seven.
"I’m also hoping it inspires my boys to carry on being active and to want to do Wolf Run. My eldest can’t wait to be seven and have a go!"
The Wild Side of Running
Beyond the fitness benefits, Duncan found something unique in The Wolf Run - an adventure that feels truly connected to nature. Unlike other obstacle course races that create artificial challenges, Wolf Run obstacles are shaped by the land itself.
"I’ve done other races where they’ve filled a trench with water to make it wet and muddy, which is cool, but at Wolf Run, it’s done by nature, which just feels more authentic."
Dodging sheep on the trails, spotting hares darting across fields, and taking on obstacles shaped by the wild landscape all add to the magic of the event.
A Message to Future Wolves
If Duncan could go back and tell himself one thing before his first Wolf Run, it would be this:
"No one will judge you, watch you, or laugh at you if you fluff it up, so just give it a go. It’s so rewarding crossing that line and knowing you did it. Also, despite what they say in the warm-up, triple-tying your shoelaces is actually the way forward!"
His journey proves that The Wolf Run isn’t just about the challenge, it’s about the transformation. Whether you’re running to get fitter, to find a new community, or simply to prove to yourself that you can, the Wolf Run welcomes you.
Ready to start your own Wolf Run journey? Sign up today and join the pack.