The women’s record in a gruelling Lake District ultramarathon has been broken by four hours.
Sarah Perry, of Cumbria, set the new women’s record in the 113 mile 13 Valleys Ultra by completing the race in just 29 hours and four minutes – four hours faster than the previous record.
It’s an achievement that not only marks the growing competitiveness of ultra-running but also underscores the skill and endurance needed to conquer the 13 Valleys Ultra – which is one of the UK’s toughest ultra races.
The race took place over the weekend and saw over 1,700 runners take part in different trails.
The full 13 Valleys route was completed for the first time after poor weather conditions shortened the event’s routes last year.
It allowed runners to experience the punishing High Street Fell standing at 828 metres – the highest point in the national park’s far eastern region.
In a story of perseverance, Lianne van Djik, of Ireland, the second female finisher, delivered a strong performance after recovering from a bike accident earlier this year.
Elaine Bisson, 2023’s first-place female finisher, unfortunately had to retire early in Ambleside.
On the men’s side, Caspian James, of the UK, crossed the finish line in just 25 hours and 33 minutes and showed great technical ability on the rough terrain.
The 2 Valleys (22km) race saw a thrilling performance from Emilia Platt, from the UK, of the Alpine Run Project – a partner of 13 Valleys.
Platt claimed first place in the women’s field and finished second overall—just 11 seconds behind the men’s winner Arron Larkin, of the UK.
The Alpine Run Project was founded by John McAvoy a reformed criminal and Nike-sponsored athlete, who is aiming to bring trail running to inner-city young athletes.
Platt’s result is a powerful testament to its success.
Reflecting on the project, Platt said: “The initiative is all about bettering yourself as a person, and for me, I’ve gone through struggles and I’ve had confidence issues, this has pushed me to the next step and helped me take that leap to improve myself and become a better person”.
Participation in the event has reached new heights, with entries for the 5 Valleys race (55km) doubling from last year.
This surge reflects the growing accessibility of ultra-running, with the 13 Valleys mission encouraging runners to start with the shorter distance of 2 Valleys (22km) and progressively challenge themselves with longer distances.
Many participants are now transitioning to the 55km race, further proof that ultra-running is no longer limited to elite athletes.
The finish line in Keswick was alive with support and energy from supporters and volunteers alike, and even a moment of personal celebration, as Rachel Swift, who completed the 5 Valleys race, surprised her partner Thomas Helyer with a proposal after they both crossed the finish line together.
Beyond the race, the event had a positive impact on the local community, raising over £5,000 for the Lake District Foundation through race entries.
The funds will go toward preserving and protecting the natural beauty of the Lake District, ensuring it remains a treasured landscape for future generations of runners and outdoor enthusiasts.
