The Cape Wrath Ultra™ 2016 – Day 4

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Day 4 of the Cape Wrath Ultra was a stunner, no, it was amazing! The early morning cold temperatures and icy wind lifted to show the highlands in their true magnificence and what a course… today was arguably THE day of the Cape Wrath Ultra.

Just 69 runners (from 95) are left in the race, yes, the first 3-days have really started to hit! Although day-4 was a ‘recovery’ day (heard in the camp this morning!) of 22 miles, it was still a day of epic challenges and one seriously beautiful course. In particular, the section of trail from CP1 (on the A896) in the Glen Torridon that weaved it’s way up and up via a stony path between Spidean a Choire Leith and Spidean Coire nan Clach to the amazing cauldron that backed onto Loch Coire Mhic Fhearchair. This is a stunning place! Despite tired legs, fatigue, pain and no matter what ailments, this place put a smile on every single participants face.

It may come as no surprise that Marcus Scotney once again lead the charge. He was instructed by event director, Shane Ohly, that under no circumstances must he start before 0900. For the remaining runners, the start window of 0700-0900 was open and many, despite fatigue, still decided to leave early in the hope that they would be back in camp to gain additional rest at the end of the day.

Finishing in Kinlochewe, Scotney stopped the clock in 4:05:52 and although Thomas Adams had been very close to hime at the midway point, he lost more time at the finish with a 4:22:22. Ian White finished 3rd and Pavel Paloncy finished 4th, their respective times 4:41:23 and 4:42:32 – looks like we may have a fight on our hands for 3rd place with Paloncy just 9-minutes advantage.

For the ladies, Ita Emanuela Marzotto was back on form today, with a definite, ‘I love the mountains!’ as she moved past me on the trail. Her time of 6:14:51 extended her lead over Laura Watson (overall ladies 2nd place) who finished in 6:42:26. However, 2nd lady on the stage and 3rd lady overall, Louise Staples stopped the clock in 6:34:04. We may have a battle on our hands for the ladies podium?

Ultimately, today was all about blue skies, white clouds and the stunning highlands, even Marcus Scotney stopped to grab some photos on his phone! Today was a special day and one that all the runners will not forget.

Roll on day 5 which once again is a (relative) shorter day of 27-miles and 1400m+ to Inverlael.

Follow the race and get more information http://www.capewrathultra.com

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The Cape Wrath Ultra™ 2016 – Day 3

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A ‘runnable’ day played into Marcus Scotney’s hands and pulling of a three-in-three stage win he once again consolidated his overall lead by another 20+ minutes for convincing lead overall. For the ladies, Laura Watson today took a stage victory by just over 1-minute from overall ladies race leader, Ita Manuela Mariotto.

At 68km long, it was a long and tough day, considerably coming on the back of a tough day 2. Although considered a course that would allow more running, the 2400m of ascent added to the difficulty. Unfortunately, the day didn’t start well for a couple of runners, Darren Grigas and Peter Fairhurst who made a huge navigational error and went completely off course and causing a minor concern from the safety team – a message was sent to the runners informing them that they were off course and to take evasive action. Unfortunately they missed the cut-off time at CP1 and therefore were withdrawn from the race in a competitive nature. It was a huge blow for both runners, particularly Peter who was in a top-position.

At the time of writing (21:30) just 49 runners had completed the day 3 course with 13 confirmed additional confirmed dnf and the remaining 32 fighting the cut-off times for a finish.

Departing Kinloch Hourn between 0700-0900, most runners maximised the additional time and left as close to 0700 as possible in an attempt to make Acanshellach before 2300 hours.

The sun was out, the skies were blue and white fluffy clouds occasionally offered some cover from the heat of the day but it was a tough day and only Scotney (7:49:09) and Mariotto (11:56:24) made the day look easy. For the remaining runners it was a day of struggle and survival. Thomas Adams (8:11:29) remained consistent running 2nd (once again) but Pavel Paloncy (10:00:58) seemed to struggle today and looked to be fighting the terrain, he finished the stage 5th over 1hr and 10min behind Scotney. Ian White (9:31:22) ran another good stage and today finished 3rd.

Ita Manuela Mariotto and Louise Staples ran a consistent day 3 and consolidated their respective overall top-3 places with11:56:24 and 12:18:38.

Stage 4 is a arguably a recovery day at 22-miles finishing in the town of Kinlochewe.

Overall standings after day-3 

  1. Marcus Scotney 16:58:06
  2. Thomas Adams 17:36:28
  3. Pavel Paloncy 20:24:51
  1. Ita Manuela Mariotto 25:29:00
  2. Laura Watson 25:54:06
  3. Louise Staples 26:30:40

Follow Cape Wrath Ultra LIVE http://www.capewrathultra.com

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The Cape Wrath Ultra™ 2016 – Day 2

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Day of the 2016 Cape Wrath Ultra lived up to expectations – beautiful and brutal!

On a course that is remote and isolated, the 95 participants battled the terrain in what was, for most of the day, dry weather, with amazing sunshine outbursts that improved throughout the day culminating in blanket sunshine.

The day 2 camp, located at Kinloch Hourn (the longest cul-de-sac in the UK) made for an amazing location nestled amongst the mountains at the end of Loch Beag.

At the time of writing, it’s 15-hours since the first runner departed camp 1 and 3 runners are still on course with approximately 3km to go, so they will hopefully make the 11pm cut-of time.

Only one runner has withdrawn from the race so far, impressive considering the tough conditions of day 2.

Marcus Scotney lead the day again finishing the 57km (1800m+) in 6:22:49. Thomas Adams and Pavel Paloncy repeated their day 2 performances finishing 2nd and 3rd, however, both lost time to Scotney finishing in 6:38:50 and 7:27:00.

In the ladies race, Ita Emanuela Marzotto once again had a good day finishing in 9:34:48. Laura Watson finished 2nd in 9:45:59 and Louise Staples placed 3rd in 9:59:13.

Post race, general consensus amongst the runners was amazement at the course, some were heard saying, I thought I knew Scotland – I obviously didn’t.

Tomorrow’s stage offers easier terrain underfoot but a longer distance of 68km with 2400m+ which will be a  real challenger for many of the competitors. It will be imperative to start at the 0700 slot.

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The Cape Wrath Ultra™ 2016 – Day 1

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Travelling to the start – click on an image to view in a gallery

Race Day 1

Day 1 of the Cape Wrath Ultra got underway today with an impressive start on the shores opposite Fort William with the impressive Ben Nevis in the background.

The sounds of a piper welcomed the 95 runners to the shore and at 1015 they were released onto a relatively simple day 1 of the 8-day 400km journey.

The weather moved in and out all day, at times glorious and sunny and then grey, dark and wet. Temperatures were relatively mild though, however, the ground soon became saturated and boggy.

It was a fast day of the front runners, Marcus Scotney and Thomas Adams lead the day and were separated by just 1-second on the line, 2:46:08 and 2:46:09 respectively.

Pavel Paloncy, a pre-race favourite made a slight navigation error but finished 3rd almost 10-minutes back in 2:56:53.

Ita Emanuela Marzotto was the first lady in 3:57:48 and this was more impressive after her recent finish at Marathon des Sables.

Louise Watson and Laura Watson finished 2nd and 3rd ladies 4:02:53 and 4:12:48.

All 95 runners completed day-1, the last runner arriving in 7:03:16.

Day 2 has a rolling start between 0700-0900 and the day has been described as tough and challenging 57km by race director, Gary Tompsett.

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Cape Wrath Ultra website and live tracking

http://www.capewrathultra.com

The 95! – The 2016Cape Wrath Ultra™ Starts

CapeWrathUltralogoThe Cape Wrath Ultra™ brought to you by Ourea Events, the team who revived the Dragon’s Back Race are in the countdown days to a once in a lifetime multi-day journey that will test mind and body over 8-days weaving a 400km journey through the Highlands of Scotland.

Starting at Fort William on May 22nd, the race will take runners on an incredible journey in a magnificent and remote part of the world that will culminate in the most northwesterly point of the British Isles, Cape Wrath on May 29th.

Cape Wrath Ultra website HERE

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Stunning scenery, remote wilderness, beautiful lochs, glens, towering mountains and the crashing ocean, the Cape Wrath Ultra™ is arguably one of the most stunning multi-day journeys in the world.

A supported expedition, equipment for the competitor’s will be transported day-by-day, tented accommodation and meals will be provided.

In a nutshell, 400km (250-miles) over and through the Scottish Highlands will be the ultimate test for the runners as they navigate via map and compass (GPS are allowed with GPX routes provided by Ourea Events) over 8-days over multiple distances with a variety of terrain and elevation gain.

Today, 95 runners arrived in Fort William to register, collect numbers and leave drop bags in preparation of the race to start tomorrow, Sunday 22nd May at 1000 hours.

Over the coming days, you will be able to follow these 95 runners via live tracking as they weave their way north. We thought it only appropriate that you can put a face to the name. Here are the 95!

Cape Wrath Ultra Website HERECapeWrathUltralogo

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HYPOTHERMIA – Hints ‘n’ Tips

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Let’s be clear here, conditions on the trail, fell or mountain don’t necessarily need to be bad for Hypothermia to set in. Running and moving fast creates heat and a runner can generate a great deal of heat in a short space of time. Imagine a scenario where you are moving fast and you have been travelling this way for say 2-hours. You are warm, no hot! You are a little fatigued, hungry, a little dehydrated and then disaster happens… you fall and twist an ankle.

Suddenly moving becomes impossible and you start to cool.

I probably don’t need to elaborate too much here as it’s very easy to see and visualize the scenario that follows.

Read the full article HERE

Read more on my series of articles for RUNULTRA

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Zegama-Aizkorri 2016 Race Preview – Skyrunner® World Series

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Zegama is Zegama! Ask anyone about Zegama-Aizkorri and the answer will be, ‘Zegama? well, Zegama is Zegama!’

Yes, it is a unique race! The Skyrunner® World Series 2016 roles on from Transvulcania Ultramarathon on the island of La Palma and now transfers to mainland Spain, the Basque country – Zegama!

Due to it’s location, early season date and unpredictable weather, Zegama-Aizkorri has seen many epic battles. Catalan mountain running legend, Kilian Jornet has won the race an incredible six times. The combination of challenging terrain, vertical gain and descent and typically bad weather fall into the Catalans hands perfectly. It’s a race where strength of mind must be matched by the strength of the body.

A quiet and sleepy place, Zegama is transformed on race weekend into a mecca of mountain running. The course is reassuringly predictable, however, as past editions have shown, the weather adds the variety and a glorious sunny warm edition can be followed with a snowy, wet and miserably cold edition.

Taking in a loop over the Arratz massif and the Sierra of Aizkorri. Otzaurte provides an early indication of form on the day but it’s on the legendary climb of Sancti Spiritu where thousands of spectators line the trail where the action starts to unfold.

Taking in the four highest peaks in the Basque Autonomous Region; Arratz, Aizkorri, Akategi and Aitxuri the highest at over 1500m. Zegama-Aizkorri is a classic mountain marathon distance race with 5472m of vertical gain.

A ridge run at altitude leads to the final summit. Scrambling over rocks the final descent arrives which leads to the roads of this sleepy town, now transformed into a hub of colour and noise.

Zegama is Zegama!

******

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The race is notable for it’s history and one man alone has shone brightly at Zegama – Kilian Jornet. Many thought the Catalan would not run in Zegama in 2016 due to his exploits in mountaineering and his ‘Summits of my Life’ project, not so – Kilian will run!

‘Kilian posted on Twitter on May 17th, ‘Last long training before Zegama done, 13h 6500m in technical terrain 🙈🙈🙈’

Needless to say, Kilian is the favourite!

In all honesty, as one would expect, the quality of the line up at Zegama is exceptional, particularly in the men’s race. The ladies race is without doubt one of the weakest line-ups in recent years – Emelie Forsberg is injured, Laura Orgue is injured, Elisa Desco is injured, and the race is also missing, pocket rocket, Stevie Kremer amongst others.

MEN

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Luis Alberto Hernando just blitzed the Transvulcania course once again and although you can’t rule him out, I can’t help but think he will just miss that extra few percent (due to fatigue) of energy needed and required to top the podium. He will fight all the way to the line though and he will unleash a breakneck descent for potential victory.

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Remi Bonnet has looked for an opportunity to race Kilian for sometime. Yes, he is that keen… he has been tipped by many, me included, that he may well be ‘the next big thing’ in the world of Skyrunning. He is an incredible talent in the VK discipline and as he showed at the Rut in Limone, he is also an incredible talent at the Sky distance. Remi could well push Kilian all the way to the line but I will still give KJ the nod for victory.

©iancorless.com_DolomitesSkyRace2015-1920Tadei Pivk was a man on fire in 2015 and was champion of the Skyrunner World Series. He has already started his 2016 well with races in Italy and a recent 2nd place at Yading SkyRun in China. Tadei love Zegama- Aizkorri and he always finds the form to make an impact on the podium.

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Saul Padua is a VK specialist and a very good one! He recently won the Transvulcania VK and in 2015 he dipped his toe in the Sky distance, in particular the Dolomites where he lead the charge to the summit only to loose his lead on the descent. I can’t help but feel that Zegama will be a similar scenario – he will run top-5 early on but potentially will loose places on the long descent to the line. If the weather is bad and it looks as though it may be, I think that will impact on his race even more.

Marc Lauenstein is yet to be confirmed as running but if he does, he could really shake things up. He recently won the Three Peaks in the UK ahead of Ricky Lightfoot and Tom Owens. The UK fells are actually the perfect training ground for Zegama, so, if Marc runs – watch out!

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Manuel Merillas like Tadei has illuminated the Skyrunner World Series with a string of world-class performances over multiple distances. He was 3rd at Limone behind Remi Bonnet and Tadei and at Lantau 2 Peaks he placed 2nd behind Remi relegating Tadei to 3rd. For sure, Manuel will be in the mix for a podium place.
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Marco De Gasperi needs no introduction to any follower of mountain or Skyrunning. The guy is a legend, he has been there and done it and still manages to pull out great results from the bag. you can never rule the Italian out but younger and faster competition keep coming, making racing at a high level increasingly harder. No longer running

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Tom Owens is yet to be confirmed as participating although he is on the start list. Tom is made for Zegama with a strong background in fell running. The terrain and mountains in this region of the Basque country offer the Scot a unique playground and what that he embraces. His recent podium place at the Three Peaks in the UK shows he is in form.

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Aritz Egea is the ever consistent Skyrunner with a string of victories, podium places and top-10 results. He does have the ability to win Zegama, he just needs a little luck. Expect him to go out hard, potentially lead the race early on with the hope of clinging on to a lead to the finish.

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Ionut Zinca like so many listed above has the potential to win and almost certainly make the podium. An ever-present on the Skyrunning circuit with consistent results at Zegama, the Dolomites, Limone and so many more, if Ionut is on form, we can certainly expect him to push throughout the race for the top slot.

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Zaid Ait Malek raced Transvulcania and therefore may well be a little tired for Zegama. However, he knows how to run this race and has placed well within the top-10, I don’t see him winning but top-5 is possible.

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Jokin Lizeaga and Eirik Haugsness head up the leading runners for a top-10 placing along with Pere Rullan, Pablo Villa (tbc), Hassain Ait Chaou, Jessed Hernandez and Nil Cardona.

LADIES

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Megan Kimmel heads up the ladies race after a recent victory at Yading SkyRun and an impressive 2015 Skyrunner World Series season. To say Megan has been on fire would be an underestimation and it was actually a real surprise that she did not win the 2015 Skyrunner World Series – a below par performance at Limone Extreme ruined her chances. But her string of victories, particularly at the Dolomites SkyRace when she beat Laura Orgue elevated her to ‘hot’ for all the Skyrunning races – watch out!

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Yngvild Kaspersen is the female equivalent of Remi Bonnet. In 2015, her first racing season, she rose through the ranks with a series of impressive runs both in the VK and Sky distance and she was rewarded with victory in Hong Kong at the Lantau 2 Peaks in horrendous conditions. If conditions in Zegama are wet, cold, miserable and slippery underfoot, Yngvild may well shine and take victory!

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Maite Maiora is an ever-present on the Skyrunning circuit and only races one way; hard! Over the winter she took time out for an operation and therefore her training may well have been compromised. On her day, Maite is without doubt podium potential and in and amongst this ladies field, I think she has every chance of a top-3 slot.

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Azara Garcia won Zegama and then had a string on injury issues which leaves many question marks about her form? If she is fit and well, then we can expect Azara to give Megan a race.

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Oihana Kortazar is yet to be confirmed as running but she recently raced the marathon distance in Transvulcania. A lady who knows the mountains and trails of Zegama very well, I would expect a podium place.

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Anna Comet raced Transvulcania and had to pull out with an injury. Although her name is on the start list I question if she will run? My gut feeling though is that this race is maybe too short for her skills; a longer race suits her better.

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The same applies for Portugal’s Ester Alves. A great long distance runner who can handle technical trail, the short sharp shock of Zegama may well be too much of an ask for a podium place. Top-10 is a distinct possibility for both.©iancorless.com-9069Kima2014_

Paula Cabrerizo and Nuria Dominguez head up the charge behind the three ladies above, both have all the ability to make the podium and yes, a victory is possible.

Marta Molist Codina, Aitziber Iberia and Eva Maria Moreda Gabaldon form the next wave of contenders and of course, we have to anticipate surprise performances that we just can’t account for. Alicia Shay placed 4th at Transvulcania Ultramarathon and although on the start list, she will not run.

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The 2016 Skyrunner® World Series is brought to you with a new management company, Geneva based SkyMan SA

SkyMan SA  is pleased to present a new Main Partner, Migu Xempower, a Chinese exercise and health management platform which also counts a rich experience in organising marathons, city and mountain races for millions of runners.

The well-established, SkyUltra and Vertical format is joined by the Extreme Seriespresented by Alpina Watches, which more than ever expresses the true spirit of skyrunning defined not only by distance, but vertical climb and technical difficulty.

Skyrunner® World Series is supported by Migu Xempower, Alpina Watches, Compressport, Salomon and Scott Sports.

iancorless.com is the official photographer and media partner for the

Skyrunner® World Series Follow on:

Social Media Logos Facebook/iancorlessphotography

Twitter (@talkultra)

Instagram (@iancorlessphotography) 

Follow the Skyrunner® World Series on social media platforms

Facebook.com/skyrunning

Twitter @skyrunning_com

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View the Zegama galleries from 2014

Cape Wrath Ultra™ 2016 Preview

CapeWrathUltralogoThe Cape Wrath Ultra™ brought to you by Ourea Events, the team who revived the Dragon’s Back Race are in the countdown days to a once in a lifetime multi-day journey that will test mind and body over 8-days weaving a 400km journey through the Highlands of Scotland.

Starting at Fort William on May 22nd, the race will take runners on an incredible journey in a magnificent and remote part of the world that will culminate in the most northwesterly point of the British Isles, Cape Wrath on May 29th.

Cape Wrath Ultra website HERE

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Stunning scenery, remote wilderness, beautiful lochs, glens, towering mountains and the crashing ocean, the Cape Wrath Ultra™ is arguably one of the most stunning multi-day journeys in the world.

A supported expedition, equipment for the competitor’s will be transported day-by-day, tented accommodation and meals will be provided.

In a nutshell, 400km (250-miles) over and through the Scottish Highlands will be the ultimate test for the runners as they navigate via map and compass (GPS are allowed with GPX routes provided by Ourea Events) over 8-days over multiple distances with a variety of terrain and elevation gain. Shane Ohly, race director for the race says:

“The route is not marked in any way and participants must use the event map and/or GPS device to follow the prescribed route. As organisers, we (and friends, family, members of the public and landowners) will be tracking participants in real time using the satellite trackers. We expect participants to stay within 200m of our advised route at all times. In practical terms, for the majority of the time this is very easy as our route generally follows the only path or track on the ground: it is the only logical way. At other times, where there is no visible path on the ground, you will have flexibility to range within 200m of the route so that you should feel little pressure to follow our route precisely at all times and can enjoy the incredible wilderness experience to the full.”

   

Image © Ben Winston

Image © Ben Winston

Day 1: 23 miles 500m ascent

Day 1 starts with a short ferry trip across Loch Linnhe sea loch onto the shore opposite Fort William. The running opens with a straight-forward warm up on a lovely road, headed South! But this is the key to accessing the remote western sea-board of Scotland, and on this day-end, the famous sights of Glenfinnan.

Day 2: 35 miles 1,800m ascent

From the very start of Day 2 the route ascends into remote territory, and clips the end of Scotland’s two longest dead-ends roads, both at remote sea loch heads. Even when you reach the overnight, you will be far, far away from civilization.

Day 3: 42 miles 2,400m ascent

This day is likely to be the hardest – though it is not the longest. It departs from the edge of Knoydart, passes through the large mountain and glen groups of Kintail, and reaches the wide strath’s (flat glens with big rivers) characteristic of Wester Ross. The Falls of Glomach are the most voluminous waterfalls in the Highlands.

Day 4: 22 miles 1,400m ascent

On this Day 4 you will experience the mountains at their loftiest – all around you, with high rocky passes, and rough underfoot in the latter third. It is one of the only days where you will not be close to the sea.

Day 5: 27 miles 1,400m ascent

Despite the previous days of remote territory, climbing up out of Kinlochewe on Day 5 will not prepare you for the qualities of what lies ahead. Fisherfield’s mountains will steadily reveal themselves to you! And then you will work through great isolated mountain glens, eventually overnighting just short of the port of Ullapool.

Day 6: 45 miles 1,400m ascent

This day escalates into some very remote and rough high ground, but is preceded by significant distances on double-tracks in the glens, and through prime Salmon-fishing country. Day 6 is the longest day, but for all those that have made it this far, this day will unlikely defeat you. (Inchnadamph is the highest overnight camp, at 80m, and one of the few that are noticeably not near sea level).

Day 7: 38 miles 1,600m ascent

One of the longer days, Day 7 gives a great contrast of moor, mountain, and deep inaccessible sea lochs. Eas a Chual Aluinn is the highest waterfall in the UK. At the end of this day is a rare section of road for this journey – but you will remember it as a road that is taking you somewhere amazing, due to the achingly beautiful seaward views.

Day 8: 16 miles 700m ascent

This is the day that takes you along the glorious beach of Sandwood Bay, to The Atlantic Sea proper and on to Cape Wrath and the Lighthouse, the most north-westerly point in the UK: A day to savor. It’s a deliberately shorter day. After finishing here, there will be a gradual minibus and ferry evacuation back to civilization in the village of Durness, 15 miles away, and a fitting sea loch coastal symmetry with the start, 8 days earlier. Once based in Durness, we hope that you have time to visit the beautiful beach just below the campsite, and nearby Smoo cave. In the evening, it’s time to celebrate, and in the morning, time to climb onto coaches and wave goodbye to the far north of Scotland.

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Like the Dragon’s Back Race, the Cape Wrath Ultra™ is designed to provide a challenge for experienced runners. The Dragon’s Back Race has gained a reputation for its severity and drop out rate, although the Cape Wrath Ultra™ is a first edition, participants can expect an event of equal difficulty, especially when one considers the additional days and additional length of 100km.

Cape Wrath Ultra™ has gained worldwide interest with runners travelling to the UK from as far as Australia, Netherlands, South Africa, America, Sweden, Italy, Germany and more. An entry list is available to view HERE

Runners will travel to Scotland this coming Friday and arrive at Fort William in readiness to register on Saturday morning.

Racing starts on Sunday May 22nd and it will be possible to follow via live tracking HERE.

Daily images and reports will be posted on this website and all relevant social media channels as and when communications allow – we are in a remote part of the world!

Social Media Logos

Instagram @iancorlessphotography HERE

Twitter @talkultra HERE

Facebook.com/iancorlessphotography HERE

Many thanks to Ourea Events for the support

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Episode 111 – Chris Vargo, Alicia Shay and Ida Nilsson – a Transvulcania Special

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This is Episode 111 of Talk Ultra and it’s all about Transvulcania. We speak with Chris Vargo who placed 5th, Alicia Shay who placed 4th and Ida Nilsson who blasted around the course to take the ladies victory. We have the news, a chat with Holly Rush and Speedgoat Karl is back

01:03:00 Start

80 days to the AT for Karl

00:15:32 NEWS

Transvulcania

Men

  1. Luis Alberto Hernando  – 7h04’44”
  2. Nicolas Martin – 7h10’40”
  3. Sage Canaday – 7h14’16”
  4. Andy Symonds – 7h25’04”
  5. Chris Vargo – 7h26’53”

Women

  1. Ida Nilsson – 8h14’18”
  2. Anne-Lise Rousset – 8h31’53”
  3. Ruth Croft – 8h33’32”
  4. Alicia Shay – 8h49’46”
  5. Hillary Allen – 8h54’57”

00:36:54 INTERVIEW Chris Vargo and Alicia Shay

Canyons 100k

Men

  1. Paddy O’Leary 9:35
  2. Bob Shebest 10:07
  3. Lon Freeman 10:51

Women

  1. Magdalena Boulet 10:58
  2. Erika Lindland 12:22
  3. Annie Rutledge 12:24

Miwok 100k

Men

  1. Cody Reed 9:04
  2. Chiara Omine 9:13
  3. Franz Van Der Groen 9:16

Women

  1. Aliza Lapierre 10:25
  2. Bree Lambert 10:55
  3. Katie Arnold 11:16

NDW 50

No full results online yet but Holly Rush blasted around the ladies course to smash the CR and finish 4th overall (time 7:11) and Neil Kirby 6:57 for the men’s win

01:40:17 INTERVIEW Holly Rush

DOUBLE BOB GRAHAM ROUND

Nicky Spinks has done it only the 2nd person and 1st lady to complete a double BGR in 45:30

02:28:38 INTERVIEW with Ida Nilsson

UP & COMING RACES

Australia

New South Wales

The North Face 100 Australia | 100 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

The North Face 50 Australia | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Queensland

Glasshouse 50 | 50 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Glasshouse 80 | 80 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

The Great Wheelbarrow Race – Mareeba to Dimbulah | 104 kilometers | May 13, 2016 | website

Victoria

Ultra Marathon 60K | 60 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Belgium

Wallonia

Les Bières du Diable | 100 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Bhutan

The Last Secret | 200 kilometers | May 27, 2016 | website

Canada

British Columbia

100K | 100 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

50K | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

50 Miles | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Ontario

Seaton Trail 50 km Trail | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Chile

Atacama Xtreme 100 Miles | 100 miles | May 20, 2016 | website

Atacama Xtreme 50 km | 50 kilometers | May 20, 2016 | website

Atacama Xtreme 50 Miles | 50 miles | May 20, 2016 | website

China

Trail de la Grande Muraille de Chine | 73 kilometers | May 13, 2016 | website

Cyprus

Lionheart Run | 80 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Czech Republic

M.E.T.R. 60km | 60 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Finland

Oulu

NUTS Karhunkierros Trail Ultra – 160 km | 160 kilometers | May 27, 2016 | website

France

Ain

La Promenade du Bûcheron | 70 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Trail de Haute Provence – Ultra | 72 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Aude

Challenge Cathare | 95 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Course des Seigneurs | 50 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Cantal

La Pastourelle – Le Grand Cirque | 53 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Côtes-d’Armor

58 km | 58 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Haute-Savoie

L’intégrale | 77 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Trail des Allobroges | 64 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Haute-Vienne

Le Grand Trail du Limousin | 58 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Haut-Rhin

Trail des Marcaires | 53 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

Hérault

Hérault Trail | 73 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Ultra Draille | 120 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Isère

Chartreuse Maratour | 50 kilometers | May 16, 2016 | website

Lozère

Ultra Lozère | 108 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Savoie

Grand Raid 73 | 73 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Var

12,5 km | 125 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Yonne

Oxfam Trailwalker France | 100 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Yvelines

Trail des Cerfs – 50 km | 50 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

Germany

Hesse

WiBoLT | 320 kilometers | May 25, 2016 | website

North Rhine-Westphalia

TorTour de Ruhr | 230 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Rhineland-Palatinate

Keufelskopf Ultra-Trail | 85 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Saar-Hunsrück-Supertrail | 128 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Thuringia

GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf Super Marathon | 72 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Ghana

Runathlon 50km Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | May 25, 2016 | website

Greece

Heroes Ultra | 154 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Guernsey

Guernsey Ultra | 36 miles | May 22, 2016 | website

Israel

Mountain to Valley Relay | 215 kilometers | May 18, 2016 | website

Italy

Emilia-Romagna

Nove Colli Running | 202 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Liguria

Gran Trail Rensen | 62 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

Veneto

Gran Raid delle Prealpi Trevigiane | 72 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Japan

100 km | 100 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

71 km | 71 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

Korea

50k | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Mayotte

Mahoraid | 70 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Netherlands

Drenthe

UltraRun van Gieten 50 kilometer | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

New Caledonia

Ultratrail des Cagous | 80 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Ultratrail des Cagous | 80 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Norway

80 km | 80 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Philippines

Hardcore Hundred Miles | 100 miles | May 20, 2016 | website

Portugal

Running Challenge Linhas de Torres | 100 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Trans 333 | 333 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Trans 333 Non Stop | 333 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Ultra Trail de São Mamede | 100 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Romania

Transylvania 100k | 100 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Transylvania 50k | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Slovenia

110 km | 110 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

50 km | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Spain

Balearic Islands

Trail Menorca Cami de Cavalls | 185 kilometers | May 20, 2016 | website

Trail Menorca Cami de Cavalls Costa Nord | 100 kilometers | May 20, 2016 | website

Trail Menorca Cami de Cavalls Costa Sud | 85 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Principality of Asturias

Ultra Trail Picos de Europa 55 km | 55 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Switzerland

Berne

Bielersee Ultra-Marathon | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Bielersee XXL 100 Meilen | 100 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

Turkey

Cekmekoy 60K Ultramarathon | 60 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

United Kingdom

Cumbria

Keswick Mountain Festival Ultra Trail Marathon | 50 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

Old County Tops Fell Race | 37 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Devon

Forces March | 131 miles | May 25, 2016 | website

Perth and Kinross

110 Mile Ultra | 110 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

55 Mile Ultra | 55 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Shropshire

Apocalypse 100 | 100 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Apocalypse 50 | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Somerset

Westcountry Ultra 100 Miler | 100 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Westcountry Ultra Flat 50 miler | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Westcountry Ultra Hilly 50 miler | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Surrey

North Downs Way 50 | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Wiltshire

Marlborough Downs Challenge – 33 mile | 33 miles | May 15, 2016 | website

Wessex Ridgeway Relay | 100 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

Worcestershire

Severn Challenge | 214 miles | May 26, 2016 | website

Severn Plod Ultra | 45 miles | May 27, 2016 | website

USA

Arizona

Adrenaline 65K Night Run | 65 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Grand Canyon 100 Mile | 100 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Grand Canyon 50K | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Grand Canyon 50 Mile | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

California

100 Miler | 100 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

60 Miler | 60 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Cinderella Trail Run 50 km (May) | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Gold Rush 50K | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Me-Ow Quads | 104 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Me-Ow Siamese | 42 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Ohlone Wilderness 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

PCT50 Trail Run | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Quicksilver 100K Endurance Run | 100 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Quicksilver 50K Endurance Run | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Colorado

135 km | 135 kilometers | May 13, 2016 | website

Quad Rock 50 | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

The Divide 135 Ultra | 135 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

Connecticut

Trail 2 Trail Series Kettletown Park 50K | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Florida

Keys 100 Mile | 100 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Keys 50K Race | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Keys 50 Mile Race | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Georgia

Cruel Jewel 100 | 100 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

Cruel Jewel 50 Mile Race | 50 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

Peach State 300 | 300 miles | May 25, 2016 | website

Run for the Heroes – 260 Mile Run Across Georgia | 260 miles | May 25, 2016 | website

Indiana

DWD Gnaw Bone 50K | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

DWD Gnaw Bone 50M | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Kansas

Rock On! Lake Perry 50K | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Massachusetts

Ragnar Relay Cape Cod | 186 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

Minnesota

Spring Superior Trail 50 k | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

We Walk! 50 km | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Missouri

Berryman 50 Miles | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Nevada

Silver State 50K | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Silver State 50-Miler | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Trails of Fury 50K | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

New Hampshire

Manchester 2 Monadnock Ultramarathon | 55 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

New Jersey

Mayapple 100K Trail Run | 100 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Mayapple 50k Trail Run | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

New Mexico

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs 50K | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs 50-Mile | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

North Carolina

Gamelands Ultra 100K | 100 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Gamelands Ultra 50K | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Ohio

Playin’ Possum 50k | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Tie Dye 32 Miler | 32 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Oregon

McDonald Forest 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Pennsylvania

50K | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

50K | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

50-Mile | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

50 Mile Relay | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Dawn to Dusk to Dawn 50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Dirty German 50K | 50 kilometers | May 15, 2016 | website

Dirty German 50 Miles | 50 miles | May 15, 2016 | website

South Carolina

Family Tree 100 Relay | 100 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Forest Freak 50k | 50 kilometers | May 21, 2016 | website

Knock on Wood 100 Mile | 100 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Tennessee

Ragnar Relay Tennessee | 196 miles | May 13, 2016 | website

Thunder Rock 100 Mile Trail Race | 100 miles | May 20, 2016 | website

Utah

Red Rock Relay Moab Edition | 63 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Vermont

100 Miles | 100 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

200 Miles | 200 miles | May 19, 2016 | website

50 miles | 50 miles | May 21, 2016 | website

Virginia

Massanutten Mountain Trails 100 Mile Run | 100 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

Washington

Pigtails 150 Mile Challenge | 150 miles | May 27, 2016 | website

Pigtails 200 Mile Challenge | 200 miles | May 26, 2016 | website

Sun Mountain 50K | 50 kilometers | May 22, 2016 | website

Sun Mountain 50M | 50 miles | May 22, 2016 | website

Wisconsin

Ice Age Trail 50K | 50 kilometers | May 14, 2016 | website

Ice Age Trail 50M | 50 miles | May 14, 2016 | website

03:50:55 CLOSE

 

03:01:24

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Nicky Spinks completes a double Bob Graham Round in record time

Joss Naylor and Nicky Spinks - image via inov-8 ©DarkPeakFellRunners

Joss Naylor and Nicky Spinks – image via inov-8 ©DarkPeakFellRunners

inov-8 ambassador Nicky Spinks, the inspirational cancer-survivor and fell runner, marked her 10 years post-diagnosis by becoming only the second person – and first woman – to complete a DOUBLE Bob Graham Round in a record time of 45 hours and 30 minutes

Starting at 00.01am on Saturday May 14, the 49-year-old farmer from Yorkshire started her 132-mile route across the Lake District’s highest fells in the hope to complete in under 48 hours.

A standard Bob Graham Round involves a 66-mile circuit of 42 summits including 27,000ft of elevation gain, to be completed in less than 24 hours. Nicky was the previous record holder for the Bob Graham Round – 18hrs 06mins completed in 2015. This record was recently recently broken by Jasmin Paris (read HERE) in 15:24.

Nicky managed to do all that twice; running 132 miles and visiting each summit two times on an epic run that involved 54,000ft of elevation gain. The only person to previously complete a Double Bob Graham Round in less than 48 hours was Roger Baumeister, who in 1979 clocked 46hrs 34mins.

BGRmap

Nicky still has the fastest women’s times for the equivalent 24-hour fell running challenges in Scotland (the Ramsay Round) and Wales (the Paddy Buckley Round).

In her blog, Nicky, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, said before the attempt:

“I hope to become the first woman to complete the Double Bob Graham Round in less than 48 hours, maybe even breaking Roger’s record time. The main aim, however, is to enjoy it and celebrate the fact that I am still here, living and running ten years after being diagnosed and treated for breast cancer.”

Well, Nicky did that and then some… it really is difficult to comprehend the mental and physical tenacity that is required for such a challenge.

Many congratulations Nicky – that is some record!