Fred Whitton Challenge 2026

One of the UK’s most revered and gruelling cycling sportives. Known as “The Daddy of them all” by Cycling Weekly, this legendary event is not just a ride—it’s a true test of endurance that rivals Europe’s toughest cycling challenges, such as the Marmotte. For those who conquer it, the sense of achievement is unmatched.

This charity event is steeped in tradition. It honours the legacy of Fred Whitton, a passionate advocate for cycling in Cumbria and North Lancashire. Respecting Fred’s ideals, it remains what it was always meant to be: a challenge.

The challenge spans 112 miles of breathtaking yet punishing terrain in the heart of the Lake District, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Riders will take on iconic climbs like Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Hardknott, Wrynose, and Blea Tarn passes.

For the elite, the course can be completed in just under six hours, but for most, it’s an all-day epic, with finishing times often exceeding eleven hours. With gradients as steep as 30% at the 98-mile mark, this is widely regarded as the most challenging one-day ride in the UK. This ride will be your ultimate test if you’re ready to push your limits and embrace the challenge.

How to Enter

Because the Fred Whitton Challenge is so popular entries are allocated via a ballot system.

The ballot opens for 10 days in December. First-time riders will be prioritised in the ballot, with 400 first-time riders randomly selected; any first-time riders that don’t get a place on this first draw will be put back into the main ballot, allowing them two opportunities to get a ride. 

Successful entrants are notified by email.

Sign up to free notifications from Sportive.com to be informed when ballot entries open in December.