Paloncý forced to abandon ‘Winter Wainwrights’ attempt

Czech endurance runner Pavel Paloncý has been forced to abandon his attempt to complete the 512km (318-mile) ‘Winter Wainwrights’ after suffering a medical issue. 

The three-time Spine Race victor began his attempt at the 214 Alfred Wainwright peaks – which amount to 118,110ft (about 36 km) of ascents – on Sunday morning in Keswick, UK, but conceded defeat on Tuesday after conquering 50 of the peaks. 

“Long story short – no Wainwrights for me this time,” was the message posted by inov-8 All Terrain Running on their Instagram page. 

‘Achilles said no’

“I got through horrendous weather on the first night and was feeling well. But my left Achilles said no. After 2 hours of sleep at Nether Wasdale I was unable to walk, probably inflammation. More sleep, ointment, but no success. 

“I am safe off the fells, but my challenge is over this time.”  Paloncý was hoping to become only the second individual to complete the grueling course – mountain guide and fellow ultra-runner James Gibson completed the route in a time of eight days, six hours and 43 minutes in December 2021. 

Pavel was also hampered by terrible weather during his attempt – including winds in excess of 50mph. The UK Met Office had issued several weather warnings across the North of England on Sunday and Monday. 

The inov-8 ambassador, a star name on the ultra-running scene, boasts a resumé including a trio of Spine Race victories in 2014, 2015 and 2018 – and has vowed to return.

“Thank you to those who supported me, it’s been an amazing journey. This time it ended much earlier than expected, but I’ll be back.”