The Montane Spine Race, known as Britain’s most brutal endurance race, has earned its fearsome reputation once again. This year’s race, held in harsh conditions across the Pennine Way, saw a large portion of competitors drop out due to chest-high snowdrifts and freezing temperatures. Despite the daunting challenges, the race continues to attract a growing number of participants eager to face one of the world’s most difficult running events.
A Race Like No Other: The Montane Spine Race
The 268-mile (430 km) Montane Winter Spine Race stretches from Edale in Derbyshire, England, to the Scottish Borders. It tests runners’ endurance in harsh winter conditions, demanding physical stamina, mental toughness, and an unrelenting will to finish.
The race, which includes over 10,000 meters (32,000 feet) of elevation gain—more than Mount Everest—has seen its difficulty soar with this year’s extreme weather. Snowstorms and sub-zero temperatures greeted racers as they began, and the conditions only intensified, making the course nearly impassable for some.
Despite these obstacles, the race’s iconic finish at the Border Hotel in Kirk Yetholm remains a symbol of accomplishment, with its reputation only growing since the event’s inception in 2012.
A Tough Year for the Racers
The first day of the race started relatively quickly, with competitors navigating the snow-covered Peak District. However, as temperatures fluctuated and thawed the snow, the racers encountered muddy, boggy conditions, forcing even the most experienced athletes to slow their pace.
British international athlete Kim Collison set a remarkable pace during the first stages of the race, opening up an impressive gap. However, the shifting conditions and the sheer length of the race eventually wore down even the most seasoned competitors. The psychological toll was evident as racers found themselves mentally drained after pushing through the bitter cold and treacherous terrain.
Collison, who had attempted the race three times previously without success, completed the course in 82 hours and 46 minutes. This victory was especially sweet for him, having persevered through years of disappointment before finally claiming victory.
The Women’s Race: Lucy Gossage Triumphs
While the men’s race was dominated by Kim Collison, the women’s race saw a fierce contest. Lucy Gossage, who had finished in third place the previous year, took the lead after overtaking Robyn Cassidy in the later stages of the race. Gossage completed the race in 87 hours, 41 minutes, and 38 seconds, securing her first-place finish.
Gossage described the race as a mental battle, noting that once she caught up with Cassidy, she felt confident in her ability to finish strong. Her victory was a testament to her perseverance and strategy, as she had pushed herself beyond her limits in a race known for breaking the spirit of even the most determined runners.
The Montane Spine’s Growing Popularity
Since its humble beginnings with just 11 entrants in 2012, the Montane Winter Spine Race has grown into a major event on the ultra-running calendar. Its combination of physical challenge, iconic route, and unpredictable weather has made it a bucket-list race for endurance athletes around the world.
Race director Phil Hayday-Brown, who originally came from a polar racing background, emphasized that the event is as much about adventure as it is about running. He believes the challenge of the race, coupled with its stunning, rugged scenery, appeals to those in the ultra-running community who crave something truly extraordinary.