Around 3,000 people travelled to the Peak District for a massive walking and running event that raised thousands of pounds for good causes. Participants took on the Peak District Ultra Challenge to raise more than £800,000 for various charities.
Event Details and Route
The event took place on July 4 and July 5 in the heart of the Peak District National Park. People walked, jogged or ran across various distances including 100km, 75km, 50km, 25km and 10 miles. Challengers set out from the event's Bakewell basecamp to explore landscapes like the Chatsworth House estate, the Monsal Trail and local valleys. Visitors from across the country filled local hotels, pubs, cafés and shops while supporting the participants.
Support and Record Breakers
The event offered rest stops, hot food and welfare teams to support everyone taking part. Experienced ultra runner Michael Young broke the 52km course record by completing the distance in four hours, 10 minutes and five seconds. Fanny Thieffry was the women’s 52km winner with a time of five hours, 40 minutes and seven seconds. In the 100km, Andy Day was the fastest male across the line in 10 hours, 22 minutes and 26 seconds before Nola Calladine finished in 12 hours, 40 minutes and eight seconds.
Personal Stories of Resilience
Many of those taking part this year had powerful personal stories to share. Hugo and Anya Sousa took part to raise awareness of Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood after their son Leo died on New Year's Day 2024. Nathan Chilton, who has overcome significant health challenges after relearning how to walk, was also among those taking part. Meanwhile, Ellis and Charlotte Dawson took on the challenge as part of their ongoing journey following the life-saving transplant operation of Ellis.
Looking Ahead
The Peak District Ultra Challenge forms part of the Ultra Challenge Series, which is one of the leading charity endurance events in the country. Organisers are already looking ahead to the return of the event next year. Entries recently opened for the 2027 Peak District Ultra Challenge. You can find more information or sign up for the next event by visiting the Ultra Challenge website.
