The Montane Spine Race Challenge North: Elaine Bisson's Triumph with the Mountain King SkyRunner Edge
The Montane Spine Race is one of the most gruelling and demanding ultra-endurance races in the world with its Northern challenge The Montane Winter Spine Challenger North is a non-stop, 160 mile race along the Pennine Way from Hardraw to Kirk Yetholm. This is a truly demanding race that gives you an opportunity to take on the northern section of the full race route. Beginning from Hardraw in North Yorkshire, runners have a time limit of 108 hours to get to the finish line at the infamous village of Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. The trail crosses some of the most beautiful but difficult terrains in Britain including; the Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian’s Wall, and the Cheviots. This is one of the most physically and mentally demanding races out there, made even tougher by the ferocity and intensity of the British winter.
In 2026, the race captured headlines when Mountain King athlete Elaine Bisson claimed victory (jointed with GirlsOnHills Runner Nicky Spinks), showcasing their exceptional skills and determination. What makes her win even more remarkable is her choice of gear: the new Mountain King SkyRunner Edger in striking Ultra Pink and Ultra Red.
The Montane Challenger North: An overview
The Pennine Way
History and Significance
The Montane Spine Race was inaugurated in 2012 and quickly gained a reputation as a premier ultra-distance event. It takes place in January, plunging participants into the harsh realities of winter conditions, including freezing temperatures, snow, and rain. The race is not just a test of speed but also of navigation, resilience, and survival skills.
Race Format and Challenges
Race Details
Start: Hawes, North Yorkshire, UK 18:00 January 11th 2026
Distance: 160 miles
Time Limit: 108 hours
Finish: Kirk Yetholm, Scottish Borders
Competitors must be well-prepared and equipped, racing for many days, with minimal sleep. The race format encourages athletes to push their limits, making finishing an achievement in itself.
Daytime Temperature: 0°C / 10°C
Night-time Temperature: -10°C / 2°C
Total Ascent: 5290 metres
Total Descent: 5591 metres
Daylight Hours in January: 8 hours
Finish Time: 06:00 January 16th 2026
Elaine Bisson: The Mountain King AthleteBackground
Elaine Bisson is not just an athlete; she is a force of nature. With a background in mountain sports and a passion for endurance challenges, Elaine has participated in numerous ultra-marathons and adventure races. Her dedication to training and her mental toughness have established her as a prominent figure in the ultra-running community.
Training Regimen
Elaine’s training is meticulous and multifaceted:
Long Runs: Building endurance through extended runs on varied terrain.
Strength Training: Incorporating exercises to enhance core stability and leg strength.
Navigation Skills: Regular practice in map reading and navigation, essential for success in ultra races.
Mental Conditioning: Engaging in mindfulness and visualization techniques to prepare for the psychological challenges of racing.
The Mountain King SkyRunner Edger
Product Overview
The Mountain King SkyRunner Edge is designed for ultra-distance runners, featuring innovative technology and materials that enhance performance and comfort. The Ultra Pink and Ultra Red colour schemes are not just visually striking but also symbolize the spirit of adventure and determination.
The Mountain King SkyRunner Edge features an innovative Glove and Grip System, designed to enhance performance and comfort for ultra-distance runners. Here’s a quick overview of how this system works:
Key Features
Lightweight Design: Minimizes fatigue over long distances.
Edge Glove: New for 2026 fully integrated glove system for trail running.
RDC Carbon Fibre: Mountain King’s strongest carbon fibre tube.
Superior Grip: Tungston Carbide tip for enhanced performance when navigating slippery or uneven terrain.
Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of ultra racing.
Elaine's Choice
Elaine’s decision to use the SkyRunner Edge was pivotal in her race strategy. The poles provided her with the confidence to tackle the varied terrain of the Pennine Way, allowing her to focus on her performance rather than her poles.