The Bob Graham Round: A 24-Hour Fell Running Challenge
A History of the Challenge
The Bob Graham Round is a fell running challenge in the English Lake District. It is named after Bob Graham (1889-1966), a Keswick guest-house owner who, in June 1932, broke the record for the fastest time to run the round, completing it in 23 hours and 30 minutes. The record has since been broken many times, with the current record standing at 13 hours and 53 minutes, set by Kilian Jornet in 2018.
The Route
The Bob Graham Round is a loop trail that covers a distance of 66.9 miles (107.7 km) and ascends a total of 26,253 feet (8,000 m). The route starts and finishes in Keswick, Cumbria, and passes through some of the most challenging terrain in the Lake District, including Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.
The Challenge
The Bob Graham Round is considered to be one of the most challenging fell running challenges in the world. The time limit for completing the round is 24 hours, and runners must be able to navigate the route in all weather conditions. The challenge is not just physical, but also mental, as runners must be able to stay focused and motivated for the entire 24 hours.
Advice for Runners
If you are planning to attempt the Bob Graham Round, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you should be an experienced fell runner with a strong fitness level. Second, you should be familiar with the route and the conditions you will encounter. Third, you should have a support crew to help you with navigation, food, and water. Finally, you should be prepared for the challenge, both physically and mentally.
Conclusion
The Bob Graham Round is an iconic fell running challenge that has been completed by thousands of runners over the years. It is a challenging but rewarding experience, and one that will test your limits. If you are looking for a challenge, the Bob Graham Round is one of the best there is.
Comments