NATHAN Montague has won a prestigious national award in recognition of his success as one of Britain’s leading ultra distance runners, writes Kevin Fahey.

In the annual UK Ultra Runner Awards, which are voted for by the ultra distance running community, the 34-year-old Swindon Harrier was named male runner of the year for 2014.

Montague beat strong opposition, including Commonwealth Games marathon runner Steve Way, after winning the Druids Challenge, the Cotswold Way 100, the Ridgeway Challenge and the Around the Island Isle of Wight race, setting new course records in all four events.

“I am really chuffed to win this award,” said Montague, who lives in The Parks area of Swindon.

“There were some awesome performances out there and to get this sort of feedback from my fellow ultra runners and followers is great and I am so happy to have won it.

“This is the third year that the awards have been held and it is really nice to know that my fellow runners hold me in such high esteem, especially as ultra running is booming at the moment.”

Montague knew he had made the shortlist which had been compiled towards the end of last year, but only recently learned that following a period of voting on social media that he had won.

It was just the news he needed after a period of injury which curtailed his racing plans and forced him to spend more time on a stationary bike and in the swimming pool to keep fit.

“I had an Achilles tendon problem but I am out on the other side now and hope to be back racing soon,” added Montague.

“I have been cross-training every day and while the recovery took longer than expected I am raring to get back now.”

Montague has a big year ahead with the main target being the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) at the end of August which is one of the biggest ultra races in the world and attracts the best runners.