Original Mountain Marathon Ultra is a Variable / 2 days ultra marathon in Undisclosed, United Kingdom. Distance: 80km. Elevation: 4,000m D+. Difficulty: challenging (Challenge Rating 64/100). DNF rate: 25%. Time limit: 20h. Surface: off-trail. Established 1968.
Original Mountain Marathon Ultra
Undisclosed, Various, United Kingdom
"Secret location. Off-trail. Map and compass only. Britain's original mountain marathon since 1968."
A 2-day navigational mountain marathon in a secret British mountain location.
The Course
A self-navigated mountain event across the hills and moors of northern England or Scotland — the location changes each year and is kept secret until race week. Teams of two must navigate between checkpoints using only a map and compass — no GPS devices, no trail markers, no pre-marked course. The terrain is classic British mountain: heather moorland, peat bogs, exposed ridgelines, and stream crossings. Navigation skill is the primary differentiator — the fastest runner will lose to the best navigator every time. The OMM format demands genuine mountain craft in a sport that increasingly relies on GPS.
mountainous
point-to-point
Runner Experience
Self-supported race — runners carry all supplies. Checkpoints for timing and safety only.
A legendary finish line atmosphere. Original Mountain Marathon Ultra is a bucket-list race with celebrations that match its reputation.
Race Day Weather
6°C
085%
70%
British autumn mountains — rain, wind, fog, and cold are normal.
Stats & Records
1968
800
Entry
£120
March
days
Lore & Trivia
The OMM (Original Mountain Marathon) is Britain's most storied mountain navigation event, running since 1968. The ultra variant extends the classic two-day format into a longer mountain challenge. Competitors must navigate between checkpoints using only a map and compass — no GPS, no marked course, no trail markers. The emphasis on mountain craft over pure running speed makes the OMM unique: the fastest runner loses to the best navigator. British mountain weather adds chaos — teams have been evacuated in whiteout conditions multiple times in the event's history.
- ▸ The course location is kept secret until 2 weeks before the race.
- ▸ Teams navigate off-trail with map and compass only — no GPS allowed.
- ▸ The OMM has been running since 1968, one of the oldest mountain races in the world.
- ▸ Established in 1968.
- ▸ Total elevation gain: 4000m.
The OMM is the ultimate test of British mountain craft — the fastest runner loses to the best navigator.
Notable Editions
The Evacuation
Severe weather in the Lake District forced the cancellation of the overnight camp and emergency evacuation of hundreds of competitors. The incident became a landmark in British mountain safety discussion and demonstrated why the OMM demands real mountain skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Original Mountain Marathon Ultra? +
Original Mountain Marathon Ultra is a Variable / 2 days (80km) ultra marathon with 4,000m of elevation gain. The course is point-to-point on off-trail terrain.
How hard is Original Mountain Marathon Ultra? +
Original Mountain Marathon Ultra is rated challenging with a Challenge Rating of 64/100 (Demanding). The DNF rate is 25%. Runners have 20 hours to finish.
What is the weather like at Original Mountain Marathon Ultra? +
Average temperature is 6°C with 85% humidity and a 70% chance of rain. British autumn mountains — rain, wind, fog, and cold are normal.
Are crew and pacers allowed at Original Mountain Marathon Ultra? +
No crew access is permitted. Pacers are not allowed. Mandatory gear is required. Self-navigation is required.
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