The Montane Spine MRT Challenge was born out of a conversation between the Mountain Rescue Teams and the Spine Race back in 2014 when Oldham MRT were looking to stage an internal event. They wanted to create their own race where team members could compete against each other over a section of the Pennine Way in winter. Both organisations soon realised that there was value in working together and so the Montane Spine MRT Challenge was born.

The creation of the new race allowed serving members of the Mountain Rescue Teams to have their own race and receive a subsidised entry (to cover costs for food and tracker hire) and in return a number of MRT provide vehicles and staff along the race route.

The event is open to all active members of MRT and made possible via the Spine Race organisers and the MRT teams that assist. The Mountain Rescue are able to use the race as a platform to fundraise from as well as enjoy the relationship with the event which is a true mountain challenge.

“On a personal note (having completed the event in 2018) I can honestly say that the feelings of camaraderie and fraternity between fellow team members competing in the event are huge. And to those team members that give (their precious) time to support the event, you remind us how great it feels to see a red jacket when you are in need.” Matt Torr, Oldham Mountain Rescue.

The MRT Challenge takes place in both the winter and summer editions of the race, and members can take on the Southern or the Northern section of the race route.

For further information please visit Mountain Rescue.