Encouraging, inclusive trail running events in Sherwood Forest
I set up HOBO Pace from a love of trail running and a desire to share the beauty of our local Nottinghamshire trails with other runners.
My vision is simple: make trail running accessible to anyone who wants to have a go. All our routes are fully marked and marshalled — no navigation stress, just running.
We currently have two events perfect for those stepping up the distance. The Dukeries 30-40 offers a natural progression from marathon, while the Robin Hood 100 is aimed at first-timers or experienced runners chasing PBs on runnable terrain.
What's been amazing to see is 10-mile runners volunteering on the ultras, getting inspired, and eventually lining up for those big distances themselves.
That's what HOBO Pace is all about — an encouraging, positive running event company striving for excellence, open and welcome to anyone wanting to be part of it.
The first event I took over was the Dukeries. Roger Spence deserves credit for creating the original route — when he retired from race organisation, the event came up for grabs.
I didn't just show interest. I emailed Roger all the reasons he should give it to me. Then a few days later, I told him some more.
My Nan, who was a very good friend to me, had passed away just a short time before this opportunity. She was my biggest fan and loved my running adventures.
She left me a small amount of money — the only money I had. Bizarrely, the fee I needed to pay to take over the Dukeries was the exact same amount my Nan had given me.
Without that money, I'm not sure HOBO Pace would exist. I know she would have loved that.
My Nan loved to see people pulling together as a community — and that has been my overall vision and experience as Race Director. I have witnessed runners and volunteers at their best.
— Ronnie
Full-time ultra running coach since 2014. Stroke survivor. 45 years old with a life deeply rooted in trail running, coaching, and HOBO Pace. Based in Lincoln with his wife and three children.
Ronnie's sister. Handles coaching admin so he can focus on athletes. UESCA certified Ultra Running Coach with multiple ultra podium finishes including 2nd at Hardmoors 110.
Lincoln, UK · Full-Time Coach Since 2014
My main role involves coaching long distance trail runners in the UK. I have been a full time ultra running coach since 2014 and have worked with hundreds of runners.
As your coach I provide an online customised and progressive training programme, supported by proven coaching methods, experience and results.
I live in Lincoln with my wife and three children. Over a decade later I am still enjoying running and coaching and I am always grateful to the runners that have trusted me to be their coach.
Christmas Eve 2018 I suffered a massive stroke that I was lucky to survive. Recovery was not easy, but I was incredibly fortunate to make a strong comeback.
I now volunteer for the Stroke Association to talk to fellow stroke survivors. I am 45 and my life is deeply rooted in trail running, coaching, and HOBO Pace.
BSc Hons Coaching, Sport & Exercise Science — Manchester Metropolitan University
Full-time Ultra Running Coach for 12+ years. Worked with hundreds of runners across all distances.
Ultrarunning Coach Certified & Endurance Sports Nutrition Certified
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Diploma
Personal Trainer & Sports Massage Therapist Level 3. 10 years experience in a leading facility.
Advanced Kettlebell, Olympic Weight Lifting & Bulgarian Bag Instructor
Race Director of HOBO Pace, home of the Robin Hood 100 Mile
Regular writer and contributor to Harrier Trail Running
Ex amateur footballer and amateur boxer, still ultra running
— Forever on the Roam
Lorrel (Ronnie's sister) supports him with the coaching by assisting with the general business admin in the background, so Ronnie can focus on the coaching — a perfect assistant being a coach herself!
Lorrel is a highly experienced Personal Trainer, UESCA certified Ultra Running Coach and Endurance Sports Nutrition Certified.
Lorrel also holds qualifications as a Kettlebell Instructor, PureStretch Instructor, and Horse Riding Instructor, giving her a uniquely well-rounded approach to performance, mobility, and long-term health.
An accomplished ultra-runner with multiple podium finishes.
