10 laps around Windermere in 24 hours

10 laps, 19,500 feet and 262 miles. A challenge that certainly isn't for the faint-hearted. The Brathay 262 is an ultra-distance cycling event in heart of UNESCO’s newest World Heritage Site, the Lake District. With six months to go there is plenty of time to train for the event which takes place on Saturday 23 June 2018.

The idea behind the 262 is cyclist and runner Paul Sutherland. After completing its running equivalent, the Brathay 10in10 in 2015, he spotted an opportunity to respond to increasing interest in technically challenging cycling events in stunning surroundings.

With this in mind, the Brathay 262 was created and the first event took place in 2016! Involving 10 laps of England’s longest lake, Windermere, the event sends cyclists on a physically and mentally demanding journey as they aim to complete 262 miles in 24 hours.

Surrounded by breath-taking views throughout the course of the challenge, cyclists start at Brathay Hall and complete an anti-clockwise circuit of Lake Windermere…10 times over. In doing so, the cyclists complete an ascent equivalent to cycling up Mount Kilimanjaro.

Last year’s champion, Dean Ware, completed the course in an impressive 16 hours and 45 minutes. As a dedicated athlete and passionate fundraiser, he is signed up to tackle the challenge again. Each and every participant of the 262 challenge makes a commitment to raise £500 in support of Brathay Trust. Brathay Trust’s mission is to ‘improve the life chances of children, young people and families by inspiring them to engage positively in their communities’. It is a fantastic opportunity to take on a challenge like none other, and raise money for vulnerable children and young people.

The Brathay 262 requires dedication, commitment, and sheer amounts of training. Are you up for the challenge?

If you think you’ve got what it takes to complete the Brathay 262, why not join the 2018 team?

You don’t need to be a professional cyclist to take part. All you need is determination and enthusiasm (and lots of practice!). The 262 is physically and mentally exhausting, but it is also extremely rewarding. If you want to endure this intense, technically challenging event and help young people reach their capacity to do extraordinary things, then get involved.

Read more about the Brathay 262 here.

We hope to see you in the saddle!