Overview

2021 will be the 11th TdeH the classic winter mountain run, traditionally run on the shortest Saturday in December.  The route starts at Askham and runs around Helvellyn, mainly on mountain trails and bridleways, but climbing to a height of nearly 600m, and a distance of around 38 miles.

• A winter run of this type is tough and requires good navigational skills, experience and self reliance. It is an umarked route predominately on good paths and trails.
• The event is 'low key' with minimal support and all participants will need to be suitably experienced and equipped.
• Individual support teams, pacing or 'crew' are not allowed

The route is the original; a tough circuit around Helvellyn starting and finishing at Askham on the edge of the Lakes. The distance is 38 miles with around 2000m of ascent and descent. The terrain is tough mountain trails and so fell running and navigational skills are essential. Entries are limited and strictly limited to experienced and competent entrants. This is not an event for novice trail runners...!

Entry

• Entry is £40 per person.
• It is a condition of entry that you are suitably experienced and have the skills necessary to look after yourself in very challenging terrain and conditions. This is no ordinary trail run, but needs winter hill running experience.
• To enter, ensure you have read all the details below and then enter via the registration page at SportIdent.
• I limit our events to a maximum c.250 starters on this event. (Entry limit is set to accept 300 to allow for withdrawals, so if you are number 264, or such, do not panic!) A waiting list will kick in once 300 have signed up.
• You can edit your entry subsequently, if you wish to book accommodation or amend your details, etc, subject to availability. (Floor / sleeping space limited to 20 people)

Pre/Post Race Accommodation

We have limited floor space in Askham CC and campervan space nearby, and must be booked in advanced.  Anyone sleeping in a vehicle in an event car park must pay the overnight fee.

Registration

Friday Evening - Registration is open in Askham CC  between 7pm and 10pm only. 

Saturday Morning - Registration is open from 6.00am - until 9:00am.

PARKING - should be on-site at the Community Centre and adjacent overflow field. tbc.

You may start at any time from 7.00am – 9-30am, but be aware that Control 2 at Side Farm,  Patterdale, does not open before 9.30am and closes at 11.45am. You choose your start time, but you must not arrive at Side Farm before 9:30am.  

Kit Check - in the pre-start area in Askham CC.

Route

• All of the route follows footpaths, bridleways or minor lanes in a logical sequence around Helvellyn, but it is unmarked and you need to navigate.  No route description is issued; as competent navigators you won't need one!
• Start and finish at Askham Community Centre (513 237).  
• CP1 Martindale Church (435 191)
• CP2 Side Farm (398 162) opens at 9.30am - closes at 11.45am.  
• CP3 Swart Beck Footbridge (359 179). 
• CP4 Stannah Beck footpath / Bridleway junction / finger post (321 189)
• CP5 Swirls car park (317 168) 
• CP6 Birkside Ghyll (326 124).  
• CP7 Side Farm (398 162)  cut off 4:30pm, 
• CP8 Martindale Church (435 191) 
• Finish at Askham Community Centre (513 237)

At the finish.... We'll keep the tea and coffee flowing until your ready for the famous  'Joe's Soup' along with more tea and cakes... 

Kit List - Your kit will be checked on the start line. 

• Waterproof Jacket with hood, waterproof over trousers. 
• Long sleeved thermal ‘base layer’ shirt, plus an additional long sleeved micro-fleece mid-layer.
• A third additional 'emergency', retirement layer, such as a primaloft gilet or jacket, is very strongly recommended.
• Warm hat and gloves/mitts 
• Long thermal leg wear.  Shorts may be worn if conditions and personal preference allow – but long leg wear must be carried, and in addition to over trousers.  
• Headtorch – even for the fastest, even if it is just a small emergency light.
• Food / drink – and plenty of it!   Two Controls will provide savoury 'nibbles' to supplement your own food*
• Compass, whistle, SURVIVAL BAG and emergency food.
• First Aid Kit - Minimum of one 5x5cm wound dressing and a roll of tape or bandage.
• A map suitable to navigate you around the route - it's your choice. A GPS or SATMAP is not a map and not acceptable.
• Mug and/or drinks bottle

View the Event Disclaimer / Terms and Conditions.

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