The highly anticipated 13 Valleys Ultra Race is set to return to the iconic Lake District from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th September, bringing together some of the toughest and most dedicated trail runners from across the UK and abroad.
13 Valleys Ultra offers a unique opportunity for runners to experience the beauty and ruggedness of the Lake District National Park, traversing its valleys over a variety of distances. Runners can choose from four demanding routes: the 13 Valleys (180km), 7 Valleys (110km), 5 Valleys (55km) and 2 Valleys (22km), each route presents its own set of challenges and breath-taking scenery.
Who to watch at the pointy end of 13 Valleys Ultra in 2024
Returning to the race this year are some of last year’s top finishers, including Richard Pugh, who claimed second place in the men’s Ultra category in 2023. Richard’s incredible performance last year has set the stage for another fierce competition, as he looks to push his limits even further in 2024. Joining him this year is Ajay Hanspal from the Green Runners team looking to take on the 180km. Can either runner beat Mark Derbyshire’s course record of 22h 55min?
In the women’s field are Elaine Bisson and Helen Newman, the first and second-place finishers in the women’s Ultra category last year. Elaine’s resilience and determination on the trails captured the admiration of many, and she returns this year with a renewed focus and drive to retain her title. Another strong contender for the women’s title is Ireland-based Dutch athlete Lianne van Dijk, an ultra distance specialist who has racked up an impressive list of wins over the past couple of years including the Wicklow Way Race and the Beara Way Ultra.
Leading the way in UK trail running
13 Valleys Ultra has implemented several strategies to actively support diversity and inclusivity in ultra running. The organizer is also committed to empowering and supporting female runners, from beginners to elite athletes. 13 Valleys Ultra has partnered with the Alpine Run Project, an initiative led by elite athlete and reformed criminal John McAvoy, and developed by Youth Beyond Borders, to further champion diversity and inclusivity in the sport.
This year’s race will continue to emphasise the importance of environmental stewardship. 13 Valleys Ultra, alongside their partner the Lake District National Park, are committed to maintaining the pristine beauty of the Lake District, with sustainable practices in place to minimise the event’s impact on the natural environment.
Collaboration has always been at the core of the 13 Valley events, Together with the Lake District National Park the stunning 180km 13 Valleys trail was launched this July. The trail traces the route of the 13 Valleys Ultra race – transforming it into a year-round walking adventure. This unique trail meanders through all 13 valleys of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering walkers unparalleled access to the breath-taking beauty and diverse landscapes of the Lake District.
The 2024 Event
The event will kick off today (Friday 27th September), with runners doing the 13 Valleys route lining up at the start at 6PM in Keswick. The 7 Valleys race starts in Ambleside on Saturday morning at 6am and the 5 Valleys race at 8am. The 2 Valleys race starts in Keswick at 10am. Spectators are encouraged to join in the festivities and cheer on the runners as they navigate their way through the valleys.
“We are thrilled to bring back 13 Valleys Ultra for its second year,” said Colin Murphy, Race Director at the Great Run Company. “Last year’s event was a testament to the spirit and strength of the trail running community, and we are excited to see double the number of runners taking on the challenge this year we anticipate another unforgettable race.”
Registration is now open for 2025.
Distances: 13 Valleys (180km), 7 Valleys (110km), 5 Valleys (55km) and 2 Valleys (22km)
