26 mile loop hike around Ullswater Lake District - rescued by boat | Trek26

We only discovered @alzheimerssociety Trek26 recently and loved the thought of the challenge - both on the event day and the continued fund and awareness raising for Alzheimers.

There are a huge selection of events to choose from all across the country bit as we signed up late we only had a few dates left to choose from. It worked out perfectly as it meant we got to experience the beauty of Ullswater Lake and spend the weekend in the Lake District.

When you sign up you can choose to do either 13 miles or 26 miles. Ever the optimist, we signed up to the 26 miles and did a few shorter practice hikes in the run up. It will be fine we thought!

Unfortunately, Mark injured his knee in the lead up to the event but he rested up and we powered on, excited for the big day! The event itself was wonderfully run and a great atmosphere to experience, albeit an emotional one.

We had a great time for the first 6 miles... then things started to go awry. I fell down a hole that was so deep my whole leg disappeared - thankfully didn't hurt too badly at the time. Mark's knee went again and was getting progressively worse as the course continued. Some lovely people stopped to make sure we were OK, to offer painkillers and heat gel, and offer words of encouragement. We powered on (a lot slower!) but were unfortunately pulled off the course eventually. Definitely for the best as Mark was struggling to walk at all and realistically there was no amount of sheer determination that would have got us around that course. We were rescued by life boat and driven across the lake back to the start/finish line.

Although we didn't complete the full loop, I am so proud of us but especially Mark, I don't know how he managed to keep going as long as he did. We also saw some beautiful scenery and would like to return to do the Ullswater Way at some point. We have also recently bought a kayak and it looks like the perfect place to bring it!

Again, the people, the atmosphere, the event were amazing, and I don't know what we would have done without them so a massive thank you.

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