The Lap, the ultra event that looks after you

The Lap promises an exciting day of racing around Lake Windermere in the UK’s Lake District. If you need an excuse to get out into the countryside, this could be it. It’s not ‘brutal’, nor ‘savage. It’s not ‘epic’, either. Davy Newell, organiser of Lake District event The Lap, is convinced that such descriptions are unnecessary and off-putting for many people who are perfectly capable of completing an ultra. 

“This is a beautiful 47-mile, fully signposted event on some of the most stunning and runnable trails in the UK”, says Newell. “Why go all macho? Our approach is to be much more inclusive, and I think people respond to that.”

The Lap was created two years ago to provide a gateway for runners and walkers to step up to ultra-distance events. It circumnavigates Lake Windermere via its surrounding hills, taking in all the best viewpoints, and participants have 24 hours to get around England’s largest and most iconic lake.

What’s in store…

• Open to both runners and walkers
• 1,200 route marking arrows
• GPS Tracker, map and GPX provided
• 5 fully stocked and feed stations
• 1 COVID secure aid station with bag drop
• Finishers meal whenever you cross the line
• Stunning, locally sourced finishers medal
• 24 hours to circumnavigate England’s largest and most iconic lake

“We never talk about how hard it is”, says Newell. “It’s all about the trail and the views, without the need to worry about navigation, time limits, or exposure to bad weather. Oh, and the quality of the food is really important – we have five fully stocked feed stations, and it’s properly good stuff!”

There is, of course, a competitive element with many top runners taking part; the course records are Tom Booth 7:35:46 (men’s) and Cass Chisholm 9:03:58 (women’s) and The Lap is a UTMB qualifier. The event went ahead last year, to much acclaim, and this year’s two editions – in May and September – are expected to sell out.

You can find out more at their website here.