Episode 465 - Kevin Matthews: Cold, Cramps & Course Changes—Delirious West, the Hilly Year

In this fourth check-in, Big Kev (Kevin Matthews) brings his trademark honesty, humour, and ultra wisdom to the mic as he faces down his sixth Delirious West—aka what he’s dubbed “The Hilly Year.”

 

Despite battling a cold and a calf injury, Kev is all systems go. From talking about his almost-gold-buckle chase, hilarious misadventures with March flies, and why this reversed course is both brutal and brilliant, this episode is packed with perspective, laughter, and valuable ultra-running advice.

 

Kev shares how he’s managing final prep with lower weekly mileage, more Pilates, stronger nutrition strategies, and a veteran mindset focused on rhythm, smart pacing, and realistic expectations. Oh, and there’s sparkling water in the mix—because why not?

 

Key Highlights:

•Calf niggle & head cold recovery just weeks out

•Reflecting on past races, including a sub-70-hour sprint finish chasing a gold buckle

•Thoughts on the course change and why doing Mount Clare twice is no joke

•Advice on fuel, hydration, and caffeinated strip hacks for the night grind

•Laugh-out-loud stories about sparkling water in a soft flask, March fly bites, and climbing terrifying trees

•Kev’s race mantra: “Eat when you should. Snack when you can. Be flexible with the plan.”

 

Connect with Us:

Subscribe for final race build-up and post-race stories from Kev and the rest of the Delirious West legends! Got a race-day caffeine ritual or ridiculous trail snack? Let us know in the comments!

 

Check out the Delirious WEST event - https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/
Event Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387

 

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