2025 Montane Winter Spine Challenger North: A Test of Endurance and Spirit
The 2025 Montane Winter Spine Challenger North showcased incredible athleticism as British runners Paul Grundy and Nicky Spinks claimed top honors in this grueling 160-mile race. The competition kicked off at 8 am on Monday, following the earlier Spine Race held the day before, creating a thrilling atmosphere filled with anticipation among competitors and spectators alike.
A Journey of Inspiration for Paul Grundy
For Paul Grundy, the race along the Pennine Way was not just a competition; it was a personal journey back to his childhood. Grundy, who holds the fastest known time (FKT) for the Northumberland Coastal Path, was inspired by memories of walking the Pennine Way with his father at the age of 14. His relaxed demeanor throughout the race belied the extreme weather conditions, which fluctuated from snow and ice to the dangers of flooding due to melting snow.
Grundy’s Dominance on the Course
Grundy showcased dominant skills as he conquered the course, reaching Kirk Yetholm on the English/Scottish border with an impressive timing of 48 hours and 3 minutes. This time, however, included a 38-minute penalty incurred by missing a late diversion at Cauldron Snout. Expressing his determination, Grundy indicated aspirations of participating in the full Winter Spine Race next year, further solidifying his commitment to this iconic trail running event.
Teamwork Prevails in the Men’s Race
In a noteworthy display of camaraderie, Serbian runner Jovica Spajic and Briton Oliver Richards finished in a joint second place. The duo partnered up from mile 15 and endured treacherous conditions of freezing snow and muddy trails, demonstrating the power of teamwork amidst adversity. For Spajic, this victory was particularly sweet; he previously won the Montane Summer Spine Challenger North in both 2023 and 2024, but his Winter attempt had ended in disappointment. Celebrating their achievement, Spajic took a moment to express gratitude to the race volunteers and safety team, emphasizing the supportive community surrounding ultrarunning.
Nicky Spinks: A Legend Continues to Shine
In the women’s competition, UK ultrarunning icon Nicky Spinks further established her legacy by finishing first, crossing the line with a remarkable time of 56 hours and 49 minutes—over two hours ahead of her nearest competitors. This accolade adds to Spinks’ already distinguished portfolio, which includes setting women’s records for the Bob Graham, Ramsay, and Paddy Buckley rounds. Having previously finished fifth in the complete Winter Spine Race, Spinks has also shown a commitment to the running community by volunteering to assist other racers in their challenges.
Second Place Showdown Among Women
Much like the men’s event, the women’s race also witnessed a tie for second place, with Samantha Lissauer and Rebecca Hormann finishing side by side. Lissauer, the previous year’s Winter Challenger South winner, joined forces with Swiss athlete Hormann, who had previously set a course record at the GB Ultras Scotland 100. Their decision to support one another proved essential as they navigated the difficult weather conditions together, further underscoring the camaraderie that is an intrinsic part of the ultrarunning experience.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Endurance and Community
The 2025 Montane Winter Spine Challenger North not only highlighted individual achievements but also showcased the essence of community within ultrarunning. From the victorious performances of Grundy and Spinks to the teamwork displayed by both men’s and women’s second-place finishers, the event exemplified the spirit of perseverance and mutual support that defines this demanding sport. As participants and fans look ahead to the next challenges, one thing is certain: the legacy of the Spine Race will continue to inspire and motivate both seasoned athletes and newcomers to the world of ultra-endurance racing.
