The Original Mountain Marathon (OMM), formerly known as the Karrimor International Mountain Marathon, is a legendary two-day mountain race that combines orienteering, fell running and overnight wild camping for a wickedly enticing adventure.
Held at the end of every October since 1968, the OMM is recognised as the gold standard in UK Mountain Challenges. Unlike many races you can enter, this self-supported race has no set route; you must be completely self-reliant and exceptional at navigating the UK wilderness.
Imagine – you turn up to the start line in your team of two; your pack is laden with everything you need for a two-day excursion. The lightest gear, cut back to just essentials, could get your pack down to 4 kg, but it’s still heavier than you’re used to while running. The average pack weight at this race is between 6-8 kg.
There are two races, both happening at the same time:
The Line Courses
The fastest team to visit all the checkpoints in a specific order wins, with different distances covered depending on your challenge. Elite (85km over two days), A Course (65km over 2 days) and B Course (45km over two days).
The Score Courses
You’ve got between 4 and 7 hours to find as many checkpoints as you can with the highest score winning. The Lengths include Long Score (13 hours over two days), Medium Score (11 hours over two days) and Short Score (9 hours over two days).
It’s up to you what route you take, it’s up to you how fast you go, but with only a map and compass (no GPS allowed), it’s a real test on navigation to get to the finish line.
“At the start line, you will collect the map for your course (a new one each day), which will show all checkpoint locations. The legend lists the checkpoint codes, grid ref, description, score course points and control closing times.”
Each checkpoint has an orienteering kite and a Control box showing the two-letter code from the map. Insert your timing tag in the box to register your visit. The control box beeps and flashes to confirm that the dibbing was successful. Then it’s onto the next one.
The 57th OMM will run 24- 25th October 2026 in Talnotry, Scotland.
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