Germany’s Katharina Hartmuth has set an astonishing new women’s record for the Bob Graham Round.
She completed the legendary 66-mile, 42-peak challenge in 14 hours, 11 minutes and 58 seconds – way under the previous best mark from 2020 of 14 hours and 34 minutes set by British ultrarunner Beth Pascall, who ran with Hartmuth during her attempt.
The Bob Graham Round was created by in 1932 by Keswick hotelier Bob Graham, who traversed the 42 fells on his 42nd birthday. It involves 8,200 metres of ascent over tricky terrain and, to be recognised, the route must be accomplished within 24 hours. It starts and finishes from the Moot Hall in Keswick.
Hundreds of the best club runners attempt it each year with large support crews.
Exhibition Round
Hartmuth won the Madeira Island Ultra-Trail in April this year over 110km and finished fourth at the Marathon du Mont-Blanc while last year she was third behind Ruth Croft at UTMB, trail running’s blue riband race.
![Katharina Hartmuth at the Tor des Géants [Photo credit: Tor des Géants press office | Stefano Coletta - Zzam Agency]](https://run247.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Katharina-Hartmuth-Tor-des-Geants-2024.jpg)
She was ahead of schedule from early on in her Bob Graham attempt in what were ideal conditions – dry but not too hot.
She was accompanied by a host of pacers and witnesses, needed for each of the summits.
And it was clear afterwards that it was an experience she will never forget.
‘What a great adventure’
Writing on Instagram, she said: “Probably the coolest day since I’ve started running.
“Bob Graham Round new female record – 14:11:58.
“This day was everything I’ve been hoping for and so much more. What a great adventure. It was so hard and so cool at the same time! I know why I’ve been dreaming of doing this for a long time. Sharing the Round with so many amazing people made it extra special.
“This was a true team effort and I’m so grateful for everybody who supported me – as pacer, crew, advisor, cheering me on… this is what sets the Bob apart from any other run. I’ve already experienced it during my recce weeks in May spent in the Lake District. THANK YOU all 🙏🏻
“A special shoutout to @gavindale13 and Martin Stone for putting together the best team even on such short notice. As well as for all your advice and help that made this dream come true!
“Also, thank you @beth_pascall for setting the bar SO high. It was a pleasure to run together on leg 2 yesterday! 🙌🏻”
