Interview: David Trehane – creator of the Studland Swimrun

There’s a new event on the swimrun calendar for 2024: the Studland Swimrun. We caught up with David Trehane, the man behind it.

Why have you created Studland Swimrun?

I had so many people in this area wanting to get into our fantastic sport that it was a no brainer really. There is absolutely nothing between Surrey and West Devon and that needed to change.

I’ve run events in other sports before, I’ve got plenty of routes that I’ve used for my own training over the last few years, so why not?!

What would you say are the stand-out and unique features of Studland Swimrun?

In terms of scenery, Studland is a jewel on the south coast. With Old Harry Rocks as a focal point, you get fantastic views of Bournemouth Bay all the way up Ballard Down where Swanage comes into view.

For the long course, we run through Swanage; a lovely Dorset seaside town and around Durlston Head with its castle, caves and lighthouse.

The whole time, you’re never far from the sea!

Compared to other UK swimruns, how challenging will your race be?

I’d say that we have everything from really easy on our short course, which has very little elevation and well-made paths throughout; to our long course which has hills, technical running and a long swim. It’s not as challenging as something like Coniston or Roseland long course, but it has its moments.

What is the best swimrun event you’ve ever done?

No question for me is Cote Vermeille Ultra. The hardest thing I’ve ever done, but my race partner Ben and I went back a second time it was so good. Fantastic organisation, great course and huge challenge. In this country, so far, Roseland is a real treat when the weather gods are in a good mood. Mad Hatters really know how to put on an event.

What have you learned as a participant that you will use to make the Studland Swimrun a memorable experience?

Everything really! I’ve taken bits from many events I’ve done and used them in building Studland. There are some really nice touches that I’ve experienced on other courses that have made a real difference and then I hope we’re going to blend in a little of our own sauce as well.

Why do you love swimrun?

To start off with, I love trail running and I love open water swimming, so at its core, that’s swimrun. More than that though, it’s such a lovely community. I love how everyone helps each other out.

What do you say to people to encourage them to try swimrun?

Just do it! Once you do it once, you’re hooked. Also, for your first time, try to learn as much as possible about what’s involved, but don’t stress too much about kit.

Enter the Studland Swimrun.