This is part of the series of interviews that I’m doing for the 2026 100, there’s lots more information about this event, and previous ones, at https://www.julianwhite.uk/ldwa-100/.
This interview is with Ercole Lugari who is looking forward to entering his first LDWA 100. Madeleine Watson, the national LDWA chair, will likely agree with his comment about tea!
Q. Could you briefly introduce yourself and say how you came to be involved with long-distance walking?
A. I am a seasoned endurance athlete whose running career is defined by remarkable consistency, a deep-rooted passion for community, and a horizon for distance that only continues to expand. My commitment to the sport is reflected in my membership with both my local running club and the prestigious 100 Marathon Club.
My journey began with Collingwood AC in Surrey, a club that was always a staunch supporter of the Winter Tanner, a local LDWA (Long Distance Walkers Association) staple. For me, that event traditionally marked the start of the new running year; I carry fond memories of navigating its great routes and battling through the iconic, heavy mud of the winter trails.
In recent years, those early experiences have come full circle. I have increasingly dedicated myself to LDWA events, embracing the unique challenges of long-distance navigation and the endurance required to push beyond the standard marathon distance.
Q. How many LDWA 100s have you completed before?
A. This will be my first LDWA 100 but I have run other 100 mile races before.
Q. What made you decide to take on this year’s 100 in Kent?
A. I was always want it to be part of it and last year managed to participate in one of the qualify events
Q. How has your training gone so far, and have you done anything differently in preparing for this event?
A. The training has been going well so far. This is part of training for another event called the Spine. The Spine Race is a non-stop, self-sufficient ultra-marathon that traverses the entire 268 miles (431km) of the Pennine Way, from Edale in the Peak District to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders.
Q. At this stage, how prepared do you feel?
A. I feel ready for the event and looking forward to make some friends on the way too
Q. What are your hopes or aspirations for the event? Is it about finishing, achieving a time, enjoying the route or something else entirely?
A. For me, these events are about more than just the miles; they are an opportunity to enjoy the route, connect with new friends, and utilize a well-organized 100-mile course as vital training for the challenge ahead in June
Q. What are you most looking forward to about the Kent 100?
A. The LDWA “Hundreds” are famous for their unique atmosphere and probably looking forward to seeing the Kent countryside (the “Garden of England”)
Q. Is there any part of the event that makes you nervous, whether that’s the distance, the night section, the weather, navigation, tiredness or something else?
A. Looking forward to explore physical fatigue and to meet deep sleep deprivation But most of it is not that uncertainty is exactly why we sign up, isn’t it?
Q. On a 100-mile walk, what do you think will get you through any difficult moments?
A. A long challenge always bring moment of joy and moments of low. Looking forward to explore both of them as they will present during the challenge
Q. Finally, any particular food or drink that you’re hoping to see on checkpoints that you particularly like?
A. Tea and cake for me are the best food. A cup of tea always makes things better!