This weekend, three of our hardy Harriers—Lou, Jen, and Dawn—took on the gruelling “Pendle Way in a Day,” an epic winter ultra challenge organised by Run JMC. Taking on the 30-mile route, with a staggering 4,406ft of ascent, our determined trio set out to tackle the tough yet stunning trails of the South Pennines, starting and finishing in the picturesque village of Barley.

No ordinary race, The Pendle Way in a Day is a fully waymarked circular route, where our competitors braved the early February chill, equipped with full winter kits, ready to push the limits over the undulating, rugged terrain of East Lancashire.

From Barley, the route took them through a short tarmac stretch via Higherford and Law Hill, leading to the first checkpoint at Laneshawbridge (12.3km). Before continuing onwards to Southfield Chapel (24.8km) and pushing through to Higham Village Hall (34.8km), as the sunset, a much needed refuel of hot food and drinks before the final stretch back to Barley (46.3km). This tested our endurance, in the pitch black on wet open trails, dark woods and bogs in the freezing cold—it was head torches at the ready, but the elements couldn’t stop us from completing this epic challenge.

The journey was nothing short of breathtaking—literally and figuratively. The stunning yet unforgiving landscape, the encouragement of fellow runners, and our unwavering determination carried us through moments of exhaustion. There were some tears, lots of laughs, and a few battles with the route (mainly going off course a couple of times), dark and icy elements, but nothing compared to the sheer joy of arriving back at Barley Village Hall, greeted by cheers and warm congratulations.

With aching legs, sore feet, and wrinkled toes, we celebrated with a warm brew and dry clean clothes before heading home for a hot bath, a warm bed, and a deep night’s sleep.

Well done Lou, Jen, and Dawn—you have done yourselves and Middleton Harriers proud! Recover well, and we can’t wait to see where your next adventure takes you!