Lake District Mountain Trial
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The La Sportiva Lake District Mountain Trial
The Lake District Mountain Trial is an annual classic mountain navigation race held in mid-September. It takes place over rough, mountainous terrain in the Lake District and is run under Fell Runners Association rules. The event tests route choice, navigational skill and stamina. Pre-marked waterproof maps are provided. Electronic punching and scoring use the SportIdent system and on-the-spot results are available. The entry fee includes post-race food and an informal get together. The 70th Trial took place at Side Farm, Patterdale (postcode CA11 0NL) on Sunday 14 September 2025. The date for the next Trial is Sunday 13 September 2026.
Entries, courses and other arrangements
Distances and course notes:
- Classic: about 25 miles, 8000 feet ascent and descent
- Medium: about three-quarters of the Classic distance
- Short: about half the Classic distance, includes a Pairs category
The Classic and Medium courses are severe tests; applicants are vetted for fell-running experience. The Short course caters principally to novices over 18 and veterans over 60. Minimum age is 18 for single runners. Over-14s may compete as part of a pair on the Short course if the accompanying runner is at least 21. Entry fee details: standard fee £30.00, £1.50 discount for use of an own SI card; under-23 fee £5.00 with a free loan SI card available. The event offers a range of prizes.
AGM and associated events
An AGM will be held on 21 November 2025 at Wilf’s Café, Staveley. Non-members may observe. A hot buffet meal is available for a stated charge, and there will be a post-AGM talk by a previous women’s course winner and multiple British Orienteering champion, followed by a charity collection. Presentations and awards will take place during the evening. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
