The Dales Way is a 80 miles long distance route from Ilkley in West Yorkshire to Bowness-on-Windermere in Cumbria, the route follows mostly riverside paths and passes through the Yorkshire Dales and the foothills of the southern Lakeland.
The first record on the route was set in August 1983 by Dennis Beresford in 13hr 46mins. Mike Hartley took 12 minutes off the record in March 1989 before he set the Pennine Way record which stood for over 30 years. Two months later in May Dennis went back and reclaimed the record setting the new time of 12hrs 44mins, which has stood since 1989.
Marcus is setting off at 8am on Saturday morning, starting at the lakeshore in Bowness-on-Windermere and aiming to get to Ilkley in 12hrs 15mins setting a new record time. He had planned on running the route last year but injury put pay the attempt, delaying the attempt by 8 months has meant Marcus has been able to recce the whole route, which he says will help with navigation and planning crewing support spots.
"The route is wonderfully varied as you leave the Lake District behind and head into the Yorkshire Dales the valleys open up changing the scenery, and leaving the Wharfedale valley till the end makes for an easier finish into Ilkley. The aim is not to go off too fast and fatigue the legs for the flatter riverside running for the last 30 miles.
I have spoken to Dennis, to hear about his record attempt in 1989 and try to glean some advice before my attempt. Though I dont think I will be following his nutrition and hydration strategy of rice pudding with Jam and tea with honey in it."
- Marcus Scotney, Montane athlete.
Marcus' kit choice denotes a true fast-and-light approach, reflecting his preference for simplicity and versatility. A core of versatile layers and accessories was supplemented with super packable and lightweight shell layers that for when absolutely necessary:
