The Spine Race is an event devised by Arctic expedition guides Scott Gilmour and Phil Hayday-Brown in 2012. It follows the Pennine Way National Trail and begins at Edale in Derbyshire, ending at Kirk Yetholm in Scotland.
This year’s race challenge began on Saturday, January 14. Our photographer, Tony Johnson, caught up with the competitors as they reached West Yorkshire. On Sunday, he caught up once again near Masham, North Yorkshire.
Competitors will continue up through the Dales, passing through Hawes, before continuing on into the North Pennines. The challenge finishes on January 22nd.
1. Montane Spine Race 2023
A competitor scrambles uphill on the Pennine Way close to Blakeley Reservoir near Meltham, West Yorkshire as they take part in the Spine Race. Photo: Tony Johnson
2. Montane Spine Race 2023
The event is a non-stop race between Edale and Hawes along the Pennine Way with a time limit of 60hrs. Photo: Tony Johnson
3. Montane Spine Race 2023
The challenge is considered one of the world's 'toughest endurance events'. Photo: Tony Johnson
4. Montane Spine Race
Competitor by the spillway at Wessenden Head reservoir near Meltham, West Yorkshire. Photo: Tony Johnson