This weekend marks the inaugural 13 Valleys Ultra, an epic ultra-marathon event through the stunning landscape of the Lake District National Park. Taking place across three days from Friday 29 September to Sunday 1 October, it will link all 13 valleys of the UNESCO World Heritage Site together for the first time.
Over 1,000 runners have signed up to take on either one of three ultra distances – 60km, 100km and 180km – or a 20km trail distance, each promising spectacular trail and mountain running over the fells, around the magnificent lakes and waters, and through the unique valleys of the Lake District National Park.
The flagship event, in partnership with the Lake District National Park, will create the foundations of a trail that can be used by visitors and residents year-round. To support these efforts 5% of each entry fee will be donated to the Lake District Foundation
Race Director Colin Murphy, said: “We can’t wait to welcome runners from all corners of the UK and further afield to our brand new ultra running experience in the heart of the Lake District.
“We have set out to create a new kind of ultra experience for the UK, one that takes inspiration from the legendary European ultra marathon events, while showcasing the incredible landscape of one of our best loved national parks.
“13 Valleys Ultra has been developed as a sustainable event that pays homage to the communities, businesses and landscape that makes the Lake District so special, while providing those taking part with an unforgettable running experience.”
All of the event distances finish in Keswick, with regular check points and feed stations along the route.
The 180km 13 Valleys distance will rank alongside some of the toughest tests of ultra running in the world. It is an exceptional physical and mental challenge and as such is open to experienced ultra runners on a qualification basis only.
Starting and finishing in Keswick, the 180km loop includes 13 checkpoints, more than 7,000m elevation, and passes through all 13 valleys. The 110km 7 Valleys and 55km 5 Valleys routes both offer a taste of the big one and exciting, stand alone, ultra marathon challenges. The 20km 2 Valleys Trail allows trail runners, and those keen to explore the world of ultra running, the perfect introduction to the event.
The 5, 7 and 13 valleys are sold out, with limited entries left for the 2 valleys distance.
The 13 Valleys Ultra has created some strong brand partnerships with the likes of inov-8, Petzl, La Sportiva, Ordnance Survey or YHA and have more than a thousand runners entered in the event.
To find out more visit: www.13valleysultra.com
