Getting to know….. Ben Goddard. Edition 24.
Undisputed king of Woking parkrun.
It’s Boxing Day — and for any self-respecting runner, that usually means shopping for new running shoes.
But before you do, here’s the next athlete profile in our series… and one that’s well worth a read.
Meet Ben Goddard — a man who knows a thing or two about winning close to home.
Ben currently sits on 99 first finishes at Woking parkrun.
The century is coming.
Although, in recent weeks, a few particularly speedy youngsters have had other ideas — keeping him waiting just a little longer.
When it comes to choosing an event, though, Ben plays the longer game.
“The marathon. It’s the perfect balance of speed and endurance. So many elements need to come together to pull it off properly — and it will always find you out if you don’t.”
And when Ben commits to the marathon, he commits properly.
His PB currently stands at 2:26 — a time that firmly qualifies as very, very rapid.
This year, though, Ben decided that 26.2 miles maybe wasn’t quite enough.
He took on the North Downs Way 100, finishing inside 24 hours.
By all accounts it was a real grind — and in the final 30 miles, very few words were spoken at all.
Athletics, for Ben, is about routine and mindset as much as performance.
“It’s the routine and the challenge. It keeps my mind fit as well as my body, and it’s great seeing the visible improvement that comes from following a plan through to success. And the communities around running are great too — especially Woking AC.”
That calm, methodical approach is exactly why Ben now leads from the front as men’s cross-country captain, with a clear mission this season:
to get Woking AC back into Division 1.
On the road, the results speak for themselves.
Winning the Surrey Half Marathon in 2021 remains a standout moment — not least because it earned him a photo with the Mayor of Woking.
“To this day, James Gamble is insanely jealous.”
Another highlight came at the Leeds Rob Burrow Marathon, where Ben finished third in the inaugural event.
“The experience of running for such a great cause — and seeing Kevin Sinfield carry Rob Burrow through the finish — was unforgettable.”
Celebrations are understated, but perfectly on brand.
“After the Valencia Marathon I went for a swim in the cold, empty hotel pool. It felt pretty idyllic post-race.”
And finally, proof that even kings have a past…
“When I went to university I had bleached-blond hair down to my chin — hence the nickname ‘Beckham Ben’. That haircut won’t be making a comeback… probably.”
Marathon runner. parkrun royalty. Ultra finisher. Cross-country captain.
And someone who commits fully — whether it’s 5k, 42.2km, or 100 relentless miles.
(Editor’s note: Ben has reportedly committed to bringing back the infamous Beckham Ben haircut if the men’s team make it back to Division 1 this season. We can’t confirm this has been officially signed off… but motivation levels are suddenly very high.)** 
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Inspired by Ben’s story?
Whether you’re chasing your first parkrun, your fastest marathon, or wondering just how far you can really go — Woking AC has a place for you.
Come and join us for the long run.
seniors@wokingac.com