It takes hard work, a commitment to training and consistency always. You'll also need a decent amount of kit, although the 'top' brands aren't always necessary for all kit. For example, I know plenty of people who get on just fine with a cheaper hydration pack instead of shelling out on a Nathan, Salomon or Ultimate Direction pack (I have both a Nathan and Salomon so I'm NOT one to talk here).
The series of ultras I completed, are the Threshold Trail Ultras. And I have a wicked hat trick hoodie (you get this when you have completed the 3) to show off my efforts once the temperature has reached normal UK standards.
We started in June with Race to the Tower, a double marathon, in one big lump, along the Cotswold way. 54 miles in total with over 8,000ft of elevation gain. The weather was just hotting up at this point, and it was a tough cookie. It was the longest I'd ever gone in one go, and I really had no idea how I would fare on the countless hills. It turns out, this is now my current favourite of the three, and I'm desperate to get back next year and have another go! Probably the most appreciative I've ever been of my OOFOS, I was dying to get those babies on my feet. They felt more like heaven than EVER!