Last weekend (Saturday 3rd of October) I travelled by train, ferry and bus to take part in the Isle of Man Mountain Ultra race, formerly the Manx Mountain Marathon (sensibly re-monikered).
At 31 miles (50km) its on the ‘short’ side as ultramarathons go, but the near 8000ft of total ascent over a variety of terrain make it a pretty tough course profile. Weather was nigh on perfect, bit of low cloud that cleared away early. The first 16 miles or so has a lot in common with the Pentland Skyline, starting in Ramsey town square and a tough ascent to North Barrule. The route follows an approximate south westerly direction over the spine of the island to finish in the village of Port Erin. A lot of steep heather bashing, and knee high gorse bashing, boggy ground and rough descents gives over to hard pack trail and switchbacks through plantations and coastal trails to finish. It does pack a lot in over the route.
81 runners started the Ultra Race, 73 finished. Tom Cringle from Manx Fell Runners was the winner in 5hrs 18mins 24secs. I managed to finish 5th overall in 5hrs 33mins behind two locals, a former multiple winner and a fast runner from Sheffield. I was quite happy with my effort, even if my quads still hate me now!
I’d highly recommend it for next year – it deserves a larger field. Strava, results and website
Matthew Curry