I took part in this years GB Divide having completed last years Escapades. Whilst unfortunately I had to scratch early on and hence missed the bulk of the long route, the team that organises these events are amazing! From the moment you sign on to arriving at the start, every detail is covered and communicated to participants very well and in a timely fashion. Also any questions you may have are answered promptly. I can’t recommend these events enough and am already considering my next attempt!

A beautiful but brutal route one not to be underestimated, a true test of determination. This event is ideal for your first BIG ultra cycling challenge which it was for me. The communication pre-event was perfect once the chat group for 2024 was up and running. This chat group became more valuable once the event began with live update's from the organisers and the front runners in the race so that those behind were informed of issues, changes and even good places to stop for food. What a brilliant approach/direction to take this type of event, you can race this event but there is no pressure to do so the relaxed attitude shown by Kevin and Jo (organiser's) was refreshing. There are rules as in all unsupported events but some events go too far this is not one of those events I think Kevin and Jo have the balance spot on and like I have said makes this event perfect for your first big ultra. Kevin was on the road following dot's and catching as many riders in person as he can, he became a friendly face for a quick chat before moving on. The Route has a good balance of everything and strangely the road sections always seem to come just when you are wishing for a rest from the off road sections. You will defiantly need mountain bike experience as some of the sections are proper MTB terrain and great fun if you have the skills to ride them. Don't be fooled by the first section though as this is one of only two easier sections of the route both of these have big off road days after. Advice... do your home work and really go into this race knowing what is coming and plan your restock options. What bike, if you want to enjoy the challenge then it has to be a hardtail mountain bike. Would I do this event again ? Yes .

The event was well organised with good information prior to the event and between the Rider Handbook and the Event Guide, all the information is there, if you take the time to read it! Download it to your phone for reference during the event and remember the key points for resupply etc. The only improvement could be some km markers like “you will arrive at the village of Settle at km 94” for instance, giving an idea of distance to arrival etc. This event is VERY hard, be aware of that and be prepared for some tough moments. This is harder than Badlands. Both you, your bike and your preparation will need to be on point. In my opinion both a gravel and mountain bike are suitable if you are a good rider. A mountain bike if you bumble your way through everything. I had a Restrap portage system on my gravel bike, which allowed me to carry the bike and bags through the worst parts. These are not trails or paths designed for bicycles in the main, most of the going is designed for horses or mules, although I only saw two and that was on the road. I encountered walkers (both serious and non) hikers, other bikes, 4x4’s, rogue 4x4’s on illegal paths, cows, sheep, guinea fowl, pheasants and peacocks. Also some very grumpy horses at the animal sanctuary who didn’t want me to go through their gate! With the right mindset, you’ll enjoy it, maybe even complete it. If you think it’s going to be some kind of jaunt, forget it.

The GBD Team are incredible, this is a tough event but you are given all the required information (route files etc) in a timely manner to study/plan accordingly. Riders safety is also paramount and that was clear from the start. Communication to the riders throughout the event was top notch. The only thing I would change is the start time from 11.00 to 09.00. This is a 5 star event and I will be back in 2026.

This is a challenging event best done on a full sun MTB. I was having a cracking time until a mechanical brought my participation to an end. Definitely want to go back and do the full route as it takes you to parts of Britain other events don't...... Really well organised and terrific communication and support form the organisers.