Like every year, a good number of BMCC riders put their names in for the Fred Whitton Challenge. It’s always a bit of a lottery, but this time it felt even tougher than usual to secure a place – likely down to the extra exposure after GCN took part last year, which seems to have driven applications up significantly. Unfortunately, I was the only one from BMCC to get in this time around (as far as I know).
The day itself started on a cold Lake District morning around 2C 🥶. Thankfully, the weather improved steadily, and it turned into a genuinely beautiful day: clear skies, sunshine, and some stunning views to go with the suffering.
This year came with a slight twist as well. With Kirkstone Pass closed due to road works, the route was adjusted, and we tackled “The Struggle” instead as the opening climb. As the name suggests, it’s a much steeper way to start the day and definitely made for a proper early wake-up call for the legs.
For anyone who’s done it before, the Fred Whitton needs no introduction. It’s one of the hardest sportives in the UK – 112 miles with over 3,500m of climbing, taking in iconic Lake District passes. Hardknott in particular lived up to its reputation – brutal gradients, tight switchbacks, and plenty of riders zig-zagging or walking. It’s the kind of climb that really tests both legs and mindset.
That said, it’s also what makes the event so special. The atmosphere on the route is fantastic, with locals and supporters out on the climbs, and a real sense of camaraderie among riders. Everyone is there for the same reason – to take on one of the toughest challenges in UK cycling.
All in all, a tough but rewarding day out, made even better by the weather and the setting.
If you’re even slightly tempted – apply next year. The ballot usually opens in December and fills quickly, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the official site and getting your name in. Hopefully we’ll see a bigger BMCC turnout at the start line in 2027!
May 2026
Arunas Adomaitis
