Questions about Entry Requirements

What experience level is required to gain entry to a Montane Spine Race?

Each race has it’s own entry requirements, but overall our aim is to make sure you are safe. Experience of challenges of a similar scale will make you safer.

See this page for full information about what experience you need for each race:

https://www.thespinerace.com/what-experience-do-i-need-to-qualify-for-a-montane-spine-race/

Is there an age limit to enter a race?

How do I configure my GPS for Britain?

For the Winter and Summer races held in the UK, your GPS needs to be configured as follows:

Position Format: British Grid/British National Grid

Map Datum: ORD SRVY GB

Your GPS will report your position with a high degree of accuracy. For simplicity we shorten this to a six digit reference in most instances. Please ensure that you understand the BRITISH GRID system on your paper maps. BRITISH GRID uses a combination of letters and numbers to signify your position.

Waiting List Questions

My waiting list status says “invitation expired” — what happened?

An invitation email is sent by the system and is valid for a limited time (example: 2 days). If it isn’t accepted and paid for in time, the system automatically offers the place to the next person on the waiting list. I’m sorry but if you miss this we can’t reinstate the place as it will have already passed to the next runner, but you are welcome to re-join the waiting list with a different email address.

What is my waiting list position? Am I likely to get a spot?

Runner Portal Questions

I’m having trouble logging into the Runner Portal. Please can you help?

Every time you log in, you need to enter your email and get a magic login link. You will need to redo this and get a new link every time you need to log in.

I’m not receiving login emails — can you fix it?

Can I log in with a different email or create a new account?

Where is the medical form in the runner portal?

Cancellation Questions

What if I enter a race but can no longer take part?

We would always highly recommend that every runner purchases appropriate insurance to cover the costs of your entry fee and your participation in any Montane Spine event should you not be able to take part.

Our races have enormous infrastructure costs, most of which are fixed and committed up to twelve months in advance, which unfortunately prevents the option of a full refund.

Deposits are non-refundable, but if you notify us 100 days before the race, you may get a partial refund of any instalment payments you have made on top of the non-refundable deposit. Please read the T&Cs before you make your payment.

I withdrew via the portal — is my deposit refundable?

I am pregnant - can I withdraw/defer?

Checkpoints Questions

I’m coeliac / gluten-free — will there be GF food at checkpoints?

Yes — GF options are available at every checkpoint. The exact dishes vary, but hot GF food has been available in past years. If you have a dietary requirement, please ensure you indicate this on your entry.

What is a drop bag? Where will I see my drop bag?

How strict are checkpoint cutoff times?

What is the maximum time I can stay at a checkpoint?

Kit Questions

Will my item of kit pass kit check?

Check the kit list on the website first. If you still have questions, email the kit lead (Lindley) who manages kit queries. (lindley@thespinerace.com)

Course Questions

Do I need navigation skills?

Will I get penalised for going off course?

We accept that the combination of sleep deprivation and night-time navigation are likely to lead to some moments of navigational embarrassment. Our rule is that once you realise you’re off course, get back to the place you left the Pennine Way via the quickest route. If we judge that a significant competitive advantage has been gained, we reserve the right to issue a time penalty. Time penalties can also be issued if you do not follow signed diversions.

How do I configure my GPS for Britain?

For the Winter and Summer races held in the UK, your GPS needs to be configured as follows:

Position Format: British Grid/British National Grid

Map Datum: ORD SRVY GB

Your GPS will report your position with a high degree of accuracy. For simplicity we shorten this to a six digit reference in most instances. Please ensure that you understand the BRITISH GRID system on your paper maps. BRITISH GRID uses a combination of letters and numbers to signify your position.

Can I have a support crew?

Outside support is strictly prohibited.

The Spine Races are unsupported events. But you are welcome to utilise cafes and pubs en route for sustenance and shelter. There’s some history of Spiners being offered sustenance by locals, which is a nice touch, so we deem that to be fine. What’s not okay is pacing, receiving planned support or having a private support vehicle follow your progress.

If friends or family wish to cheer you on, limit this to one instance during the race. Do not accept
food or drink, or exchange any other items with them. Media organisations or personnel, including creation of content for YouTube channels will require HQ approval and must display accreditation at all times.

Logistics for International Runners

I am travelling from outside the UK and I have luggage with me. Can you transport it for me? (International only)

Yes. We can transport a 1 x 20kg (max) bag for an additional fee. The bag will be transported to every checkpoint you visit along with your resupply bag, but will NOT be accessible. We will email international runners a few weeks before the event to book this.

How do I get home?

Where can my friends and family follow the race?

Our Media Team provide rolling coverage of the entire event via our Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts. Our videographers also scour the route producing daily update videos for the folks at home to watch. On top of this, your fans will be able to ‘dot-watch’ throughout as they follow your GPS tracker along the route via our live GPS tracking system.