13 Valleys Ultra 2024 Race Report
The 2024 edition of the 13 Valleys Ultra proved to be another thrilling and challenging event, cementing its status as one of the UK’s most demanding and iconic ultra-marathons. With breathtaking landscapes, unpredictable weather, and a variety of distances to choose from, this year’s race did not disappoint.
The Event
Photo credit: 4 Season Collective
Held in the stunning Lake District, the 13 Valleys Ultra offers four race distances: 180km, 110km, 55km, and 22km each taking runners through some of the most iconic and rugged terrain in England. The longest route traverses 13 different valleys, ensuring every participant experiences the full spectrum of the region’s beauty—from sweeping views atop fells to serene, wooded trails along lakes and rivers. Each of the Lake District's 13 Valleys has a different feel, and a different challenge.
Weather and Conditions
As is often the case in the Lake District, the weather was a significant factor in this year’s race. Starting with a beautiful sunset as they began to run through the night, the next day the runners soon found themselves battling heavy rain showers and slippery conditions on the descents. However, the cloud cover lifted in the afternoon, offering spectacular views across the fells and glistening lakes—a welcome reward for the effort expended.
The Races
Photo credit: James Street
The 180km race, the longest and most grueling distance, kicked off at 6pm on Friday evening, featuring both seasoned ultra-runners and ambitious runners stepping up to their longest challenge to date. Throughout the race, the course’s technical sections—sharp ascents and steep descents—pushed even the most experienced competitors to their limits. Aid stations, strategically placed throughout the course, provided much-needed support with hydration, nutrition, and encouragement.
The 110km and 55km races followed similar paths but offered shorter versions of the full route, attracting both ultra-endurance athletes and trail enthusiasts looking for a tough, yet manageable challenge. The camaraderie among runners was palpable, with participants often helping one another during difficult sections, embodying the spirit of trail running.
The 2 Valleys race, delivered a day filled with excitement, stunning scenery, and tough competition. Though the shortest of the races in the 13 Valleys series at 22km, the 2 Valleys race provided a fierce test of both speed and endurance, allowing runners to experience a taste of the Lake District’s famous rugged landscape.
Highlights and Challenges
The 13 Valleys Ultra weekend was an incredible showcase of endurance, community, and the stunning landscapes of the Lake District. Runners from all over came to challenge themselves on the course, which spans some of the most iconic valleys in the region.
Runners were tested both physically and mentally as they climbed the steep paths, only to be met with gusting winds at the summit. Many participants remarked that the climb, though tough, was their favourite part of the race thanks to the rewarding panoramic views.
Highlights included the breathtaking views from high passes, the warmth and enthusiasm of volunteers at every checkpoint, and the sense of achievement as runners crossed the finish line. The event also shined a light on local businesses and communities, with many runners and spectators enjoying local hospitality throughout the weekend.
Of course, such an ambitious event wasn’t without its challenges. Some participants faced tough weather conditions during certain stages, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already demanding course.
In addition to the physical demands, mental strength played a crucial role. For those in the 180km race, running through the night tested their endurance and resolve, as they navigated trails in complete darkness, save for their headlamps and the occasional glow of distant aid stations.
The Winners
Photo credit: Steve Ashworth
The 180km race saw an incredible performance from Caspian James, who crossed the finish line in a remarkable time of 25:33:00, setting a new course record. Leading the race from early on, he maintained an impressive pace throughout, demonstrating both their technical skill and endurance. Sarah Perry also set a new course record with an impressive time of 29:24:24 to win the women's race, and quoted "Loved those little VOOM bars at the checkpoints - rocket fuel! 🚀".
In the 110km distance, James Chapman and Leonie Ansems De Vries took the top spots with strong finishes, overcoming challenging conditions in the second half of the race. The 55km race saw a competitive field, but Chris Booth and Helen Newman emerged victorious.
In the 22km distance, Arron Larkin took the victory raising money for Alzheimer's Society and Emilia Platt took the victory just 20 seconds behind from first overall. Emilia is part of the Alpine Run Project, a new wellness movement fuelled by an empowering youth community who advocate for the impact running in nature can have on their wellbeing.
The Atmosphere
The atmosphere at the 13 Valleys Ultra is a unique blend of camaraderie, adventure, and awe. From the moment runners gather in Keswick at the start, there’s an unmistakable buzz of excitement. Participants of all distances—whether tackling the full 180 km, the 100 km, 55 km, or the shorter 2 Valleys—share a collective energy, united by their love of the outdoors and the challenge ahead. Conversations of race strategy, last-minute gear adjustments, and pre-race nerves fill the air, yet there’s also an underlying calm as runners take in the stunning Lake District scenery that will soon become their battleground.
As the race unfolds, the spirit of mutual support shines brightly. Along the course, runners encourage one another during tough climbs, share tips for navigating the technical sections, and offer words of motivation in the darkest moments of fatigue. Aid stations become gathering points for quick refueling, but they also serve as places of community, where volunteers greet runners with smiles, food, and support that lifts weary spirits. The volunteers play a huge role in creating the welcoming and supportive atmosphere, often offering more than just sustenance—like friendly conversation or a much-needed boost of morale.
Photo credit: Joel Jameson
Spectators, family members, and local supporters line parts of the route, especially near key checkpoints and the final stretch into Keswick. The cheers and applause create an uplifting energy that drives runners to keep going, even when their legs are screaming for rest. The finish line is a hub of celebration and relief, as runners are greeted by the sound of bells, cheers, and hugs from loved ones. Whether it’s a first-timer crossing the line of a shorter distance or a seasoned ultra-runner completing the gruelling 180 km, everyone receives the same warm welcome.
Conclusion
Photo credit: Joel Jameson
The 13 Valleys Ultra delivered everything a trail runner could hope for—challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and unforgettable camaraderie. It's more than just a race—it’s a gathering of the trail running community in one of the UK’s most iconic natural settings. The shared struggle, breathtaking views, and moments of triumph create a sense of unity among all involved, making the atmosphere truly special.
Here’s to another unforgettable year at the 13 Valleys Ultra, and to the spirit of adventure that keeps bringing runners back to these majestic trails year after year.
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