Great British Divide 2022

Finishers

2 weeks after setting off, our final two finishers crossed the line at the Nevis Range, a few hours apart. That's a long time to be riding on your own, and takes a huge amount of mental and physical strength to keep going for so long.

Singing Simon and his baby shark enjoyed a final night in Fort Augustus, before making their way to the end - still very much smiling. It's fair to say that other than an 'off' day somewhere in the middle, he's had an absolute blast on this ride. He found his rhythmn and maybe it was the presence of the baby shark toy that he found on the route, that became his companion, that made it not such a lonely affair after all. All I know is that I found myself compelled each morning to take a look at his instagram story to see what song was the theme of the day.

Later in the day, and before the cut off, Peter arrived, having done an extra loop of the Nevis range for good measure. His was a rather different story to Simon's though. Ever since swapping out his previous Sat Nav on the route, he has struggled with his replacement. Out of all the riders, Peter will have ridden the most miles as he has found himself re-routed numerous times. By the end he was also having shifting issues, and despite visiting numerous bike shops along the way, he ended up finishing with just 8 working gears. If you have to choose on a route like the Divide, you would always chose your climbing gears, which meant that he lost the benefit of 'easy' fast miles on the rare flat bits. But, he persevered, and was our final finisher. Such an amazing performance when you consider the battles.

This left just one rider still out on the course. Steven was riding the route in slower time, but after a number of aches and pains, he made his way to Haltwhistle so he could catch a train. However, he did change his mind about scratching, and went back out, only to decided that the time was right after all to scratch. He has promised us though that he'll be back next year to finish.

Round up

This years ride couldn't have been any more different than last in terms of weather. We had less cases of reported trenchfoot and mud related bike issues, but roughly a similar number of scratches due to knee, back & saddle sore issues. Any ride like this takes it toll on the rider, even when the weather is near perfect. It's tough, but then that's why riders enter. To test their own physical and mental toughness, to meet other amazing riders, and to pass through our most amazing of landscapes.

There are a lot of people behind the scenes that make even a small event like this happen. So we say thanks to our partners, checkpoint businesses and volunteers, and of course, we cannot forget the man who brought the concept of the Great British Divide to life - Kevin Francis. Maybe this is the year that we'll stop calling him the rainmaker.

If you've enjoyed watching the dots and fancy giving this a go next year, then head over to the website to see when you can get your entry in.

That's it for another year - see you next year.

The heat wave hasn't quite reached Fort William, and although sunny there is a chill in the air. I would imagine that it makes for almost perfect riding conditions for our final riders.

Most of the latest riders back have chosen to stop in Fort Augustus before riding along the Great Glen way, Loch Lochy and the Caledonian Canal to the finish. Sven was no exception as he arrived in 7th place this morning. He's been able to ride an event free of any major issues, and made steady progress along the route. We haven't heard much from Sven along the route, but rumour has it that he will be making a film for his YouTube channel - that's something to look forward to. Well done Sven, you've earned a rest now.

The next rider due back is singing Simon, who has cleared the Forth & Cylde union canal, and is heading towards the West Highland Way. We anticipate a Saturday finished for Simon.

Peter seems to have slowed right down again, we are not sure if there is an issue or not, but I'm sure he'll be in touch if there is. With still over 400km to go to the finish, he must be feeling some pressure now. Keep going Peter.

And finally, our final rider Steven, is still to arrive at CP3. He won't make the event cut off, but I hope that he continues to finish the route anyway. It will be great to see him finish.

So there we have it, just 3 riders remaining, and we will continue to follow their progress.

If you've ridden a multi day ultra race before, you'll know that one of the biggest decisions you will need to make is your sleep strategy. Sleep deprivation is a very real issue on events like this and one that causes a lot of riders to scratch after a few days. Some thoughts are similar whether you are riding and off road or road event. "Am I prepared to rough it and wild camp, or will I seek out hotels/hostels etc". That decision alone, can make a huge difference to your bike set up, and pace. Wild camping means a heavier load, but much less time wasted overnight, and on an off road event it can be easy to find places to bivy or pitch a tent. It can be more of a challenge on a road event as out of the way spots are harder to find. But, hotels mean being able to move quicker when riding, and less strain on the body, a chance of a shower every day, and clean clothes. But, they can mean having to ride off route to find on an-off road event. What has been interesting on the Divide is that the top 3 riders all chose hedges and ditches to sleep in, whilst the mid pack riders have all chosen beds. I believe that Craig also has slept mostly rough. The weather this year has been mostly mild and dry, so it's a decision that the riders would have been comfortable with. In wetter conditions it might have been an option they would regret. One thing is for sure though, those at the pointy end are generally prepared to rough it and sleep as little as possible in order to stay at the front. What would you do?

Day 9 has now passed, but late in the afternoon our next finisher came in. Craig Bunyan had to scratch last year, so for him there was unfinished business. This year however, he finished in style with a highly respectable 4th place. Not bad when you consider that he had Covid just 2 weeks before the event

He was followed later by Nick Percival who also put in another solid effort. Olivier arrived this morning, which almost completes the mid pack finishing group.

Sven is closing in on the finish too, although with still 160km to go, will he push on for a finish today, or go for an early morning finish tomorrow. He might find that Fort Augustus is a good place to stop tonight, and then push on tomorrow. But only time will tell.

Back in the Scottish Borders, singing Simon Vale has now crossed into Scotland. With a smile on his face, he's now taking requests for bike Karaoke. Follow him on Instagram if you want him to bring a smile to your face each morning.

Peter is also due to cross into Scotland shortly. We've now found out the source of his detours. Unfortunately the replacement Garmin that he sought out a few days ago has been playing up and rerouting him periodically. The device is probably fine, but sorting out the set up on a new device whilst in the middle of a tough long distance bike race, when your brain is already frazzled, is always going to be tricky. Looking at his track though, he seems to have sorted it, and had now stayed on route for the last 24 hours. Great going Peter, many riders would have just given up, but you've kept on going. Fantastic.

And Steven, our final rider is now closing in on CP3, keep it up, you're doing great.

Scratch report

We said goodbye to Alan Velecky yesterday. He arrived at Kirkby Stephen on Sunday night, but by Monday morning decided that his constant back and neck pains were likely to cause him longer term issues if he carried on. Thess kind of rides really do take it out of you. It's a tough decision to scratch when you've come so far, but a sensible one sometimes where your health is concerned.

The top 3 are in

With a change in route through Scotland this year, and good fortunes on the weather, the riders were in for a treat in the final 300km. It did not disappoint as Joe, riding solo since the border, stormed ahead, seemingly happy to be in familiar territory (he lives in Scotland much of the time now) and eager to get the job done. Mid afternoon, he arrived at the Nevis Range Mountain Resort, to be joined by his girlfriend at the finish.

A few hours later Rufus followed him in, a little worse for wear from his experience. He had encountered some stomach issues over the last few days, and his energy was gone, yet somehow he still managed to stay ahead of Donnacha. Rolling in again a few hours on, Donnacha arrived to finish the top 3 places.

These guys have been amazing to follow. Right from the start it was impossible to call who would eventually arrive back first, but in the end, it really did seem to be about who needed the most sleep. Joe was able to call on his Enduro racing back ground and pace himself well right to the end.

Kevin was able to catch up with Donnacha in the morning, and as the only finisher of both editions, find out what he thoughts about the new route. It was a big thumbs up. He hadn't missed the removal of some of the particularly harsh bits from before, and liked the new route through Scotland. Thanks Donnacha - same time next year then?

Mid Pack

The next group are now firmly in Scotland, with Craig now just 200km from the finish. He's put in a solid performance this year, after the disappointment of having to scratch last year. He's opened up the gap between him and Olivier & Nick, who are well into mid Scotland now. Sven is readying himself for the long flat stint on the Union Canal.

The following group

Simon, Alan and Peter have all now cleared CP3, and enjoyed the hospitality of our hosts Ceri & James. Simon had a few wobbles over the weekend, where he was struggling with the mental side of the event. It's a long time to be on your own riding something like the Divide, but when your family turns up unexpectadly on the route, it can make the world of difference when you're struggling. Good work Simon for getting through the dark times, and getting back to business today.

If you've been watching the dots closely, you will see that Peter has gone off in peculiar directions a couple of times. We know that at the end of last week he was having issues with his Garmin, although I'm not really sure what today's detour was all about, where he rode 25km cross country from Settle, before jumping on the road to ride all the way back to Settle and then back again. Did he leave something behind and have to go back, or did he enjoy the place so much that he went back for a second look? Whatever the reason, he's back on track now.

Finally, our Lanterne Rouge Steven is still going. He's in it for the long haul, but determined to get to the end. Gotta love the perseverance.

Riding a bike off road across the country isn't entirely about just turning the pedals, although clearly that's what gets you to the end the quickest. But on a 2000km adventure, riders have to eat, sleep, take care of their bodies and their bikes. They also meet people and animals along the way. I particularly want to say 'thanks' on behalf of riders passing through the farm of Chris Ellison (from Dales Divide fame), as he offered riders tea and cake as they passed through, and for those he didn't catch, he left them a few treats and a note of encouragements on his gate. What a gent!

Enjoy a few snaps from the last few days of riders taking care of business when not in the saddle.

This is turning out to be a pretty exciting race to the finish. It really is too close to call whether riders from Ireland or New Zealand will get to the end first. Donnacha and the Rufus/Joe pair have been leapfrogging for the last day and a half. If they all survive it, I think it will simply boil down to who needs to sleep more, as they seem to be really evenly paced when moving. Rufus did falter briefly earlier today, and the pair split so Rufus could sleep, although he then somehow managed to overtake Joe and the happy couple are riding together once more. What’s even more impressive about these three is that they have already reached Scotland…outstanding. They will I’m sure be relieved that the sun has come out again.

Dotwatcher Tim Roberts has been Dot hunting over the last couple of days, and has sent us some photos of the mid pack riders out on the course. They are all looking in fine form, taking each day as it comes. He caught up with Craig, Sven, Olivier, Nick & George yesterday. Great photos Tim.

Today he caught up with Simon Vale, who is still entertaining us with his video diaries, which include talking to himself, singing to viewers and generally having the time of his life. He also found Alan Velecky who also has a similar ‘no camping’ approach to the event…no wonder they always look so fresh.

Craig is closing in on CP3, and I suspect it will be tomorrow before Nick, Sven & Olivier get there. Ian, Alan, Simon and Peter are further back still, so it will be Sunday/Monday before they check in. Our one remaining rider is Steven. He’s reached Machynlleth, and is riding at a pace that works well for himself and his body. And talking about taking care of bodies……

Scratch Report

We have lost a few riders over the last 24 hours, as the impact of the journey, takes its toll on riders bodies. Phil was really happy to get to CP2, but after clouting his knee with his pedal the day before, it had swollen up significantly, and made it too painful to continue riding.

Scott also decided it was too much for his body. Like many others, his knees had taken a battering, and he called time on his battle with saddle sores.

Guy, who had been riding in the top group, had been struggling for a couple of days, in particular with issues with his neck. Somehow he managed to get out of Wales, across the Midlands as north of Manchester with his neck in a brace. He came up with some creative ways to continue riding to take account of his inability to hold his head up, but called it this afternoon when it just became impossible. You have to give him 11/10 for determination and grit!

And finally we said goodbye to George. He continued solo after Callum retired at CP2, but by the end he too was broken. His hands and feet took the battering, and he called time at Mam Tor.

As far as I am aware, the remaining riders although really tired, are in reasonable condition after a week on the trails.

If you can get out and cheer some along at the weekend I’m sure they’ll appreciate it.

It's day 6, and our lead riders are approaching CP3 at the Dales Bike Centre (hosted by more of last years riders Ceri & James Bicknell). There really is nothing between the top 3 now, although Donnacha just manages to stay in front. They've managed a few soakings along the way, which is certain to be making the going fairly tough in places. Also, I believe these 3 are spending most of their nights outdoors, so it must be particularly grim at times.

South African guy is still currently holding 4th place, but it's clear that his neck issues are still causing him problems and Craig is catching him up. I do hope though that Guy is still enjoying the ride as much as he can. He came a long way for this.

The next group of riders to have cleared Wales are Nick, Olivier, Sven & George. Ian is a little further back, but should make quick progress through the next 60km, which are largely flat with lots of resupply options. There's a sense of relief from these guys that they are now half way through. There's something to be said for knowing that you have ridden further than you have left to go.

Our next group are heading into North Wales now, with time having been spent in Machynlleth for recovery and resupply. Simon & Alan are keeping each other on their toes, and are very close together. Peter is currently in Mach, undoubtably eating his body weight in food.

Further back in South Wales we have Steven who has just cleared CP2, Scott & Phil.

I admit that I'm fascinated by Phil, and love watching his progress. This is a seriously tough event, and one riders need to be in full strength for. For Phil, this really is a passion and a huge personal challenge. He is riding to fundraise for CMTuk, which is a charity that supports people living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (No I hadn't heard of it either). CMT is a progressive disease that damages peripheral nerves that affect muscles and movement. Muscles in hands and feet gradually become weaker which is naturally a big issue if you are a cyclist. Phil suffers from this condition and has poured his heart & soul into getting in the best possible shape to be able to even get to the GBD startline. He may be the Lanterne Rouge now, but he's still moving forwards, dealing with each problem as it arises. Like everyone else, his body is struggling with the task it's been given, and I am willing him forward with every pedal stroke. Follow his Instagram, and maybe encourage him in the comments, or even more with a donation.

Scratch list

Tony Martin scratched officially yesterday, after he had more bike woes and decided enough was enough for him. This morning we also said goodbye to Justin Dean and Gerald Herradura. For Justin, the ride was taking too much toll on him generally, and Gerald was suffering saddle sore upon saddle sore. His description was saddle sore with small babies around mummy saddle sore....I think we get the idea!

And then there were 16. Not bad actually at this point in the race.

It's been said many times that many endurance sports are 20% physical ability and 80% mental ability. To some extent that's true, but without months of physical preparation your body is going to break down pretty quickly. Riders of an event like the GB Divide, are having their bodies tested to the limit. No only do they have to ride 2000km, but a huge proportion of that is off road. Not just simple bridleways, and canal paths (although they do feature), but the relentless South Downs, Rocky Welsh climbs, and the Penine Bridleway, and that's all before they hit Scotland. Factor in being self sufficient and having to find all their own food & sleep arrangements, then you start to understand how events like this can break people pretty quickly.

The mental side of a race like this is harder to train for. Experienced ultra riders, or even those who have come from another ultra discipline will have honed their problem solving skills and mental toughness over the years. And that's the thing to remember. It takes practice. Until things go wrong and you have to solve a problem on the road, it's not always certain how you will react. On a long race, the riders start to spread out fairly quickly. Currently on the GBD there are around 700km separating the leader from the Laterne Rouge. That in itself takes a lot of guts to not be despondant. The riders near the back of the field will be spending many more days out in the field, and mentally that's a tough place to be.

Many of the riders have encountered issues along the way, but they've been solving them and moving on. This is a gutsy bunch of riders this year, and it's a pleasure to follow their dots.

The last 24 hours

5 days in, and there is all to ride for in the top 3. Irishman Donnacha is still clinging onto the lead, but NZ pair Joe and Rufus are hot on his heals giving him no margin for error. Donnacha has been spotted in the wild, and the NZ boys are keeping us updated with videos of Wales, weather and waterfalls, yes they do reappear when it rains.

There's a steady stream of riders now heading through Wales and they are experiencing all kinds of weather - there is a good reason why Wales is so green. Craig had a bit of a GBD21 reunion at CP2 as he was welcomed by Jon Kelley who is manning the checkpoint and was one of last years finishers. I'm sure that a cwtch from Wales was very welcome.

As they entered Wales, we noticed that George and Callum were no longer riding together. Callum was having a few issues with pain management and decided to slow his pace down into CP2, so George went on ahead.

Simon is in the middle of the pack, but is thoroughly loving his adventure through the British countryside, even the Welsh rain doesn't seem to wash the smile off his face. Justin is the same. Although he's finding it tough he's still smiling. Let's hope they still feel the same when they leaves Wales.

Towards the end of the group, it looks like Steven, Scott and Phil will cross the bridge today. We were a little concerned about Steven earlier when we saw his dot at Bath railway station, but he's back on the move now so hopefully everything is ok. All remaining riders have now cleared CP1.

Scratch Report

Sadly, we had two scratches on Day 4. David Winton called time on the ride near Bristol, but consoled himself by having a proper pub lunch, and using Bristols fab & flat cycle lanes to get to a hotel. After leaving CP2, the pains that Callum was suffering from, in particular with saddle sore and a bad knee became too intense, so he scratched at Brecon.

I mentioned at the start that these events are tough on the body, and I know that some other riders are also beginning to feel the cracks appearing. As Wales does it's worst, and then riders reach the Penines, I wonder how long some can continue. It could be a very interesting few days coming up.

Event organisers are a funny bunch, but all have one thing in common. They want to create the very best experience for riders whatever their chosen niche. Some rides are simply brutal for the sake of it, whilst others are routed to be beautiful and take riders to places that they might not ordinarily discover. The Great British Divide is a healthy mix of both. Over the last 12 months the route has been fine tuned, and in some places completely rescripted to include more of the beauty of the landscape, whilst removing a few of last years more brutal aspects. The riders are certain in for a treat. They are certainly look to be enjoying it so far.

Repeat visitors to this event will have already noticed route changes after the New Forest with the route heading straight north across the Salisbury plain ranges. And now that riders have arrived in Wales, there have been a few more subtle route amendments. At 830km the route takes a completely different route towards Ellesmere, which should mean a much more flowing but still tough ride back towards England. Donnacha is in the new stretch now, and it will be interesting to know his thoughts on this section.

The next major route changes won't been seen until riders hit Scotland. There are some small changes down south which will improve the flow, but after Kirkintilloch the whole route has been redesigned. The new route looks stunning, and I'm sure the riders will love it.

Will the route change again next year? I guess that will depend on feedback from the riders. A route is never 'final', but this year's route looks pretty darn close.