I’ve dusted off my previous page at https://www.julianwhite.uk/ldwa-100/ all about the LDWA 100 to bring it up to date for 2026.
This interview is with Enfys Bosworth who has completed five 100s before and I loved the character building tantrum!
Q. Could you briefly introduce yourself and say how you first became involved with the LDWA and long-distance walking?
A. My name is Enfys Bosworth, I’m 32 years old and live on the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast. I joined a hiking group in Manchester called the Manchester and District (MAD) Walkers. A few of us got into long distances and someone suggested the Bullock Smithy — 56 miles through the Peak District. I finished it slightly broken but very happy, and already thinking about the next challenge. Someone mentioned it qualified me for the LDWA Hundred, so I entered without a second thought — and I haven’t looked back. It’s now the highlight of my year.
Q. This will be your fifth Hundred event. Does it feel different preparing for number five compared with your first one?
A. It’s completely different now. My first hundred was all about “can I even do this?” — I overpacked, wore heavy boots, and just got round. These days I’m edging towards running, so it’s about refining my pace and kit — trainers, a light running bag, tasty snacks— and building mileage gradually with a couple of short runs in the week and a long one each weekend. I’m lucky to live in Pembrokeshire, so the coast path is perfect training ground.
Q. What keeps bringing you back to the 100-mile distance?
A. One-hundred miles will never be easy but will always be a massive achievement. It lets me explore a new part of the UK every year, and every route brings different challenges. Last year’s flatter route was really tough on my feet and mentally I was fried, while the hillier Scottish route the year before was a joy. But the real draw is the people — the volunteers are incredible. The encouragement and food at checkpoints are unmatched. Special mention to pizza crumpets and selection box chocolates!
Q. Are there any particular memories from your previous Hundreds that still stand out, either for good reasons or for “that was character-building” reasons?
A. So many, although some a bit hazy from lack of sleep! On my first hundred (the Trans-Pennine), I faced freezing winds overnight which really got to me. The tantrum I threw, and the shivering was truly ‘character building’, so I now always carry an extra layer. But the sunrise coming down Lose Hill made it all worthwhile. In Scotland, one of my funniest memories was my teammate at mile 95 convinced there was a net about to capture him on the path. Watching the hallucination unfold was very amusing.
Q. What made you decide to take on this year’s Hunnypot 100 in Kent?
A. Last year wasn’t my most enjoyable experience, but that wasn’t the event’s fault or the fantastic organisers. A learning point for me was to train on similar terrain as the event. However, the pull of a hillier route, the amazing community, and a healthy bit of FOMO (fear of missing out) brought me straight back. That — and the fact I’m a big Winnie the Pooh fan.
Q. How has your training and preparation been going this time?
A. I had a small hip cartilage tear last September, so I took three months off to recover. Since then, I’ve rebuilt my fitness and switched things up by running more — a nice change, even if I’m not sure I can call myself a runner yet. I also did a 53-mile event called ‘The Marreg ’in Pembrokeshire — with 3000m plus of hills, some scambly bits and an opportunity to do night navigation it was wonderful. And I was mostly fuelled by delicious checkpoint Welsh cakes. The bilk of my training has been gradually building miles with 2-3 short runs and a nice long adventure on the weekend.
Q. Do you feel you’ve learned anything from your previous Hundreds that you’ll be trying to put into practice this year?
A. I’ve learned many things that I will try to incorporate this year:
- Keep eating and drinking— it’s absolutely crucial. I’m already pretty good at this but my last event I didn’t carry enough water between checkpoints which was very unenjoyable.
- Deal with foot issues early — stopping is worth it. I’ve been known to ignore the issue and regret it every time.
- Miles 70–80 are always tough for me, so I’m working on staying positive. I know my body can do it so I can’t let my head win.
- Save a treat for later — I’ve learned a Coke near the end is like rocket fuel for me.
Q. Food can become strangely important on a 100-mile event. What have you learned about what keeps you going, and what do you most look forward to eating or drinking during an event?
A. We all know the hundred is a checkpoint-to-checkpoint exercise with the temptation of the next offerings keeping you moving. I’ve always had a big appetite, so the walking picnic is a dream. I carry energy chews, high-carb bars, and salty snacks, but the real highlights include macaroni cheese, fish finger buttys, fresh fruit, and the endless sandwich options.
Q. Is there any part of the event that you’re especially looking forward to, or anything that feels like the biggest challenge?
I feel more prepared than ever this year and confident in my game plan which inevitably have to be adapted as the hours tick on. Pacing is my biggest challenge. I tend to get carried away early on and pay for it later. This time I want to stay steady and consistent — and enjoy the hills and scenery along the way.
Q. What advice would you give to someone taking on their first Hundred, especially if they’re feeling excited but slightly daunted by the scale of it?
A. It does see daunting and I never know how I do but trust your body and mind. I try not to think about the miles done or the ones yet to be completed and live in the moment. Other tips include:
- Eat often and stay hydrated (don’t forget electrolytes)
- Chat to people — it lifts your mood and passes the time
- Stick to your own pace
- Change your socks regularly — your feet will thank you
Q. When you look back after the Hunnypot 100, what would make this year’s event feel like a success for you?
A. Finishing, having more highs than lows, and ideally avoiding a second night — I really don’t like wearing a head torch! Fewer blisters would be a bonus too.