The notoriously challenging Spine race is back for another thrilling summer edition this June, hot off the heels of the 10th Winter Spine race anniversary event. For those unfamiliar, the Spine is a non-stop race which sees participants navigate the Pennine Way on a series of varying race options (scroll for more on those below).

Along the way racers battle extreme exposure to the elements, sleep deprivation and challenging terrain. Don’t be fooled that the summer edition is an ‘easier option’ than the winter race, the weather up north can be equally as changeable, even at this time of the year. The threat of hot weather on the trail also poses additional challenges for racers to negotiate…