Photo Credit: No Limits Photography
For anyone still unfamiliar, the Montane Lakeland 50 & 100 is one of the UK’s premier trail runs and is the longest standing event that we sponsor here at Montane (discover more in our dedicated origins blog). Every year, hundreds of racers descend upon the Lake District to take on the now legendary routes, including our very own #TeamMontane racers. Each year we are astounded by the countless inspiring tales of those taking part. For a preview, don’t miss our Crash Course video, your chance to see how the 2021 event went down…
The 2022 race got off to a sunny start in Coniston. After a fun afternoon of preparation, including 10k and 5k social runs led by #TeamMontane athletes and Petzl, the time finally came for the 100-mile runners to set off. As is Lakeland tradition, the racers were sent on their way after an incredible operatic performance of Nessun Dorma. This emotional send off was nicely topped off by one last Lakeland 100 racer who entertained the crowd with a headstand, before powering up the hill and on his way through onlooking spectators.
Photo Credit: No Limits Photography
Day 1 was officially underway and soon all eyes turned to tracking those running into the night. Things were about to become interesting as the weather took a turn, with the heavens opening and the Lake District showing us just how wet it can really get! With Day 2 having dawned, waterproof jackets were firmly on as the Lakeland 50 racers prepared to take on their challenge. Setting off from a soggy Dalemain, the racers got going at 11.30 AM…
Inspiring Stories
Whether seeking a new running challenge, returning to take on the route, or running for an incredible cause, there is a vast variety of people taking part in the Montane Lakeland 50 & 100. Whilst many fit and healthy folk could take on the 50-mile route (with a bit of determination and lots of training), undertaking the Lakeland is a challenge that should not be underestimated. This year in particular was made even more challenging by the relentless wet weather conditions.
With over a thousand runners taking part, there were countless inspiring stories to be heard across the weekend. A few we were privileged to hear about included Laura Stephenson who this year was running the 100 mile route but had previously run the 50 (and even the Lakeland 1 when she was a child!). Another incredibly moving story we became aware of was that of Kev. Now Kev is an undisputed legend of the Lakeland race, having run the 100 route six times. Sadly, earlier this year, he was involved in a life changing cycling accident, leaving him paralysed from the neck down. This year his 3 sons decided to run the Lakeland together to help raise funds to buy Kev a new off-road wheelchair. If that wasn't enough to tug at your heartstrings, we also heard about 2 racers who sacrificed their runs to help other runners who had gotten into difficulty.
It’s these tales of bravery and comradery in the face of adversity that make the Montane Lakeland such a special race, whether you’re taking part or spectating. It’s what sets this event apart from any of the other events we sponsor throughout the year.
Kentmere Checkpoint
Okay, call us biased, but as custodians of the Kentmere Checkpoint, we couldn’t not give a mention to Montane’s official base for the weekend. For those running the Lakeland 50, this was the 3rd stop on their journey towards Coniston (roughly halfway) and, for the 100-milers, the 11th checkpoint they encountered en route (approximately 75 miles in.) As with all checkpoints, this was a space to help runners refuel and restock. Awaiting those who arrived were members of Montane HQ, experienced Montane runners Jen and Marcus Scotney, alongside dedicated Lakeland marshalls on hand to help. Our mission was simple… to help lift racers’ spirits and see them on their way (hopefully with a smile on their face!).
To many returning runners’ delight, the much loved Montane smoothies were on hand to help rehydrate and were served up by our very own Global Marketing Manager Matt Hickman. Donned in a blonde wig disguise, Matt looked every inch the cocktail shaker bartender, joined by his smoothie sidekick (& checkpoint DJ) Olivia Jackson - their smoothies went down an absolute storm with those seeking a little pick-me-up. But that wasn’t the only thing awaiting those who joined us here. We went all out with this year's festival Woodstock theme, with party vibes flowing, disco tunes blasting and dancing galore. One racer described it as “like the Mos Eisley Cantina Bar in Star Wars”. Mission accomplished.
Want to relive the checkpoint highs? Or get a flavour for what transpired? Just take a look at our instagram highlights, which captures some of the weekends antics.
Lakeland Legends
Despite the rain and tough conditions encountered, many racers did make it to the finish line in Coniston to claim their medals and a celebratory pint! A big congrats goes to 1st male finisher of the 100 race, Ali Bailey, who conquered the race in 20:46:02, as well as the first 1st female finisher of this route, Emma Stuart, who ran it in 23:05:54. The winners of the 50 mile route went to Andrew Siggers who completed it in 07:56:25, and Katie Kaars Sijpesteijn. Significantly, Katie came in at an impressive 08:02:19 - setting a new female race record for the 50-miler. An incredible achievement given the race conditions.
Of course, one of the big highlights of the weekend is always the presentations on Sunday. A chance to catch up with fellow racers, hear about some of the incredible stories of those who took part and to fully appreciate the incredible achievement undertaken by everyone involved. Ultimately, the Montane Lakeland is not only a true test of physical prowess and endurance, but mental resilience too. For those who sadly had to DNF along the way, it’s a bittersweet moment. Whether you finish or not, everyone who is brave enough to undertake this challenge is an absolute legend in our opinion and should be incredibly proud of themselves.
Feeling inspired?
If, like us, you’re feeling inspired to take on the Montane Lakeland for yourself, keep your eyes peeled for the ballot opening for 2023 entries in September. For more inspiring race action, take a look at our next big ultra event, the Montane Dragon’s Back Race, which kicks off on 05 September, 2022.
Photo Credit: No Limits Photography
