Paul Tierney Breaks Steve Birkinshaw's Wainwright Record

Steve and Paul on Stybarrow Dodd. © Steve Birkinshaw.

Ultra runner Paul Tierney has smashed Steve Birkinshaw's 2014 Wainwright record, summiting all 214 Lakeland fells in just six days and six hours.  

The 318-mile challenge is the equivalent of running twelve marathons, including 36,000 metres of ascent. 

Paul, who beat Steve's record by almost seven hours, endured sleep deprivation and tough weather conditions before being welcomed across the finish line in Keswick by a crowd of hundreds.

Paul followed a similar route to Steve who spent months prior meticulously planning the quickest route. 

Steve supported Paul on the first leg of the race and says he was chuffed to see Paul break the record, though he is slightly sad not to hold it any longer, 'Paul was well aware how tough it was going to be, both physically and mentally, having read my book and seen the film about my run. Hopefully I offered him some good advice. I also lent him my map so he could get a good feel of the route and the logistics that needed sorting.' 

Paul raised over £25,000 for Mind UK in memory of his friend Chris Stirling who passed away earlier this year. 

To find out more about Steve's incredible story, There is no Map in Hell, click HERE.