Tarkine Elite's Ben Leeson - Buffalo Stampede 100km Q&A

09/04/26

When preparation meets patience, breakthroughs tend to follow. For Ben Leeson, the Buffalo Stampede 100km was not just another race. It was the result of his most complete and consistent training block since stepping into trail running in 2023.

Representing Tarkine as one of our elite athletes, Ben arrived in Victoria with purpose. Big weeks in the legs, strength work locked in, and time spent grinding through the climbs of the Stirling Ranges to simulate what the course would demand. What unfolded next was a performance that pushed beyond expectations and showcased exactly what happens when preparation, mindset, and grit align.

We caught up with Ben to break down the training, the race, the challenges, and what lies ahead.

1. How did your training block leading into the race go?

This was the first time since I started trail running and racing in 2023 that I have put together a great block of training. Since completing Feral Pig 100km in November 2025 I had a gentle month of training and making sure I recovered fully, in particularly from a chesty cough that had been lingering for about 3 months. From the start of January I managed consistent training weeks right through to taper time before the race. This involved two trips down to the Stirling Ranges to try and get the legs used to long climbs and descents that we don’t otherwise get in WA. I was consistent with my weights training twice a week, weekly track sessions to work on lifting the ceiling along with normal easy, long and tempo/threshold sessions. I took a month off work so I could focus on recovery whilst finishing the block and flying over to Victoria a few days earlier than usual to make sure I was settled.  

2. How do you feel about your performance on race day?

Never in my dreams did I think I would run sub 11hrs on that course . As with all ultras there are always things to manage and my arch nemesis are gut issues and cramping. I had gut issues from 25km in and the day was all about transitioning and problem solving as we went along making sure I could get as many carbs in as possible whilst also making sure I don’t cramp up or explode from either end. I am very happy with the execution of the race, taking the first 50km steady to ensure I had enough in the back half to maintain and finish strong.

3. What were the biggest challenges you faced out there?

The gut/ cramping issues mentioned above was probably the biggest challenge for the day. I am still constantly working on this and not having run in such cold conditions I may have consumed too much liquid for the conditions. I also forgot to collect gels from the Eurobin Aid Station (80km) as my brain wasn’t working and my crew got delayed due to full buses. This left me without any carbs for about 1.5hrs which likely depleted my energy stores and meant I didn’t have enough kick for the final downhill to the finish. Mentally I felt strong all day, how could you not with the stunning scenery, amazing volunteers, crew and even other competitors cheering you on.

4. What did the course teach you?

As suspected this course found my weakest aspect and that is the strength and ability for running uphills. I can hike fairly quickly but I really need to develop my uphill running ability more and will be a major focus for the remainder of the year.

5. What’s next for you?

A week of recovery and then time to build into my next race which is the Margaret River Ultra Marathon 80km on May 9^th. Very different race this one with not much elevation but a LOT of soft sand and beach running along the beautiful cape to cape course.

Gear: Ben wore the soon to be released Tarkine Bandicoot for the entirety of the race.