This year, alongside the many runners pushing their limits, several members of #TeamMontane are participating in the Lakeland 50 & 100. This includes dedicated individuals from our headquarters office, who embody the spirit of going further and faster, as well as the formidable athletes we work with externally. We caught up with some of our HQ employees, to find out how they got into running, what attracted them to take on such a challenge, and the Montane kit they’ll be relying on, en route. Because up high, light doesn't wait. And neither do they.
Richard Hanley - Graphic Designer
I'd say that I've been 'outdoorsy' most of my life, but fell/trail running truly pulled me in about 10 years ago. There's something special about running in the rugged landscape that draws me in. This year will be my second Lakeland 50, the last time I ran it with a back injury and really paid for it. This year, I want to enjoy the experience without injury and fingers crossed smash my time from my previous attempt.
I'm looking forward to reaching Kentmere, getting the Team Montane red carpet treatment and feeling like a proper athlete for a few minutes at least. Ambleside is a huge milestone, and the large crowds there can make it quite an emotional experience. But the best bit is seeing my family afterwards, having done something I'm proud of. My least favourite? The Kentmere pasta, but the famous 'Lakeland Kentmere Smoothies' more than make up for it!
My essential kit for me this year, Jetstream shorts (my new go to running piece for any type of run), and my Gecko VP 12+ that will carry everything I need. Oh, and a fully charged GPS watch – as the ancient proverb goes... "If it's not on Strava, it didn't happen".
Neil Clasper - Warehouse Manager
I've always been drawn to the outdoors from an early age, especially the Lake District. More recently, the solitude of the Cheviot hills has been my refuge. I always find soltitude in open spaces.
This will be my second Lakeland 50. After 2023, I couldn't imagine applying again, but as my body recovered, I wanted to experience the course in a different way. I was injured in 2024, so I'm hoping to be fit enough to better my time from 2023 and most importantly, enjoy it.
As for kit, I'll be like a moving Montane mannequin: Dart Nano, Terra Shorts, Gecko VP20+ pack, and Pac Plus waterproofs if needed. My other pieces are well-worn and always perform.
Pamela Scott - Factory Shop Sales Assistant
I basically turned my life around about 10 years ago and started getting fit about 5 years ago. I got into paddleboarding, caving, climbing and long-distance walking. Three years ago I started trail running, and I have had the bug ever since. I recently came 14th in a recent trail race, so I am confident about tackling the Lakeland 50 this year. I've constantly pushed myself and love a challenge. I'm always surprised at what I can achieve. I'm hoping to knock some time off last year's Lakeland 50!
Anders Pettersson - Factory Shop Sales Assistant
From a young age, I've loved being outdoors. Running began during Covid, and working at Montane ignited my passion for trail running. Hearing race stories from customers had inspired me to try out trail running. Last year, the Lakeland 50 was my first ultra at 19. This year, I feel far more prepared. What I loved last year was the community spirit and support from racers, spectators and volunteers. And, of course, the sheer achievement. Who knows, maybe the Lakeland 100 is next!
For kit, my Gecko VP 20L+ running pack will hold my essentials. My go-to is the Phase Nano Jacket, brilliant when the heavens open. The Volantis 7” shorts are a favourite, and I'll definitely be wearing them.
David Williamson - Finance Director
Before joining Montane in 2020, I was already running a bit and ticking off Wainwrights. But these last few years, I've thrown myself into every opportunity: Cheviot Goat, various Trail Series races, Winter Spine Sprint, and multiple Lakeland finishes.
The 2024 Lakeland 100 was my first attempt, coinciding with my wife's due date. Luckily, I finished before our son arrived. This year, I'm back for the 50 (and 1!) before getting back to chasing down a slate in 2026 and beyond. There's something so special and unique about the Lakeland weekend. I get why people call it their favourite: the packed streets, inspiring stories, kids flying in the Lakeland 1, getting soup from Stormtroopers, and those Kentmere smoothies – it's all incredible. That said, if anyone could remove the slippery descent from Bampton Common and that never-ending path alongside Haweswater, I'd appreciate it!
Even in summer, I'll likely need my Phase Nano Waterproof Jacket. It packs down to nothing and has handled every challenge. I'll probably take a Gecko 12 for pork pies and jam sandwiches. Hopefully, the emergency Minimus Nano Waterproof Pants and Mountain Cap can stay stuffed at the bottom.
Feeling inspired? Keep up with the Lakeland Action
Head over to our Lakeland event HUB to find out more about the Lakeland 50 & 100 race.
