Gillian McGale - Full Spine (155:18:22)

Gillian McGale was the final finisher across the line of the Montane Summer Spine Race 2025. With 16 years of running experience under her belt, this dedicated runner sought an epic challenge to commemorate her 50th birthday. Fittingly, her milestone birthday coincided with the first stage of the race, adding an extra layer of personal significance to her incredible journey as a full Spine Race Finisher.

Chris Hunt - Full Spine (155:05:42)

Chris Hunt's bond with the Pennine Way began at age 12, when he embarked on youth hostelling trips along parts of the 268 mile long trail with a friend. He vowed to return and take on the full route, a promise that remained unfulfilled until now. Last year, he attempted the full Spine Race but wasn't able to finish. This year's successful completion of the Pennine Way is a poignant achievement, coming just months after the passing of the friend who first inspired his journey.

Xuejun Du - Full Spine (142:58:44)

Xuejun Du's journey with Montane began, quite simply, with a single purchase. Little did he know, that first piece of kit would ignite a passion leading him halfway across the world to tackle one of Britain's most brutal races.

Like Xuejun, we believe our kit is unrivalled for runners taking on the trails. Our reputation for quality and performance is so strong that it compelled him to travel all the way from China to compete in an event we proudly support. 

Nick Summers - Full Spine (134:30:17)

Two years after his mother suffered a stroke, Nick Summers completed his first Spine Race, driven by a deeply personal motivation. He now walks and visits places his mother no longer can, experiencing them on her behalf.

To keep himself awake during the gruelling race, he found an ingenious method: engaging in playground naming games with his fellow runners.

Jemma Wilkinson - Spine Sprint North (11:05:07)

Shepherdess Jemma, defying all odds, completed her first ultra last year and has since gone from strength to strength. Years ago, a severe cycling accident left her unable to walk and with lasting injuries. Her doctor told her she'd never run again. But Jemma refused to accept that prognosis. Through years of perseverance, she discovered a run/walk formula that worked for her, crediting countless hours spent walking on the farm for building up the endurance needed to conquer ultra-marathons. Her inspiring journey truly embodies the spirit of the Spine Race.

Read about Anna Troup, Summer Spine Race Winner 2025, or find out more epic tails from Britains Most Brutal Race in our full race report.