Last updated: February 17, 2026

Cut-off summary

• Overall time limit: 60 hours
• Key cut-offs (departure unless stated):
  • CP1: depart within 24 hours
  • Monitoring Location (Malham Tarn): depart within 48 hours
• Maximum time at checkpoints: 6 hours (Monitoring Locations: 30 minutes)

Full Race Rules

The following rules govern the Montane Summer Spine Challenger South & MRT Challenge South 2026. These rules must be followed at all times during the event, both on the course and at each checkpoint. Spine Races are non-stop mountain marathons and must be treated as serious undertakings.

Due to the potential for adverse or extreme weather, you are responsible for your own safety on the trail and at all checkpoints. You must be in good enough physical condition to complete the race in your chosen category within the allotted time, and you must have the skills to navigate effectively and manage emergency situations in mountainous terrain.

In addition to accepting the Race Rules and Terms & Conditions of entry, you must digitally sign/agree to the participant waiver and complete the medical questionnaire prior to the start of the race. By taking part, you accept the Race Rules and Terms & Conditions of entry.

1. You must be aged 21 or above.
2. Spine Challenger South & MRT Challenger South athletes have 60 hours to complete the course.
3. Athletes must observe any advised cut-off times.
4. Spine Challenger South & MRT Challenge South athletes must depart CP1 within 24 hours, or they will be withdrawn.
5. Athletes must arrive in CHECKPOINTS at least 30 minutes before cut-offs to allow time for welfare assessments, checkpoint admin, and kit checks. Failure to meet the arrival or cut-off time will result in the athlete being withdrawn from the race.
6. All athletes must depart the Monitoring Location at Malham Tarn within 48 hours, or they will be withdrawn.
7. In some instances, athletes will be advised on pacing to safely meet cut-offs. Failure to meet any set targets may result in early withdrawal from the race.
8. You must check in/out of every checkpoint. You may stay at a Spine Checkpoint for a maximum of 6 hours, but you must still observe cut-offs.
9. Monitoring Locations such as Malham Tarn have a maximum stay of 30 minutes. Check-in/out is compulsory. Athletes must arrive at this location at least 5 minutes before the cut-off to allow time for welfare assessments.
10. You must ensure your race number is recorded by course monitors during the race. Failure to do so will incur a penalty. If it happens more than once, further penalties or expulsion may apply.