Brathay Challenges is responsible for some of the Lake District's most successful (and scenic) events, with the Langdale Marathon and Half Marathon and Asics Windermere Marathon all on their books. And now, for those who fancy taking on a challenge in that part of the world, but want to do it under their own steam there is the Brathay Tour Of Loughrigg.

The 10K Tour is a virtual race, with a start, finish and checkpoints along the way which are detected by your phone, using the new Skamper app. Skamper allows runners to share the joy of running and the physical and mental health benefits it brings. Many runners find personal challenge and friendly competition both motivating and rewarding.

A spokesperson from Brathay explains: "Looking for a challenging Lake District event to complete any time and raise funds for Brathay Trust at the same time? If you’re visiting the area to train for our Langdale Marathon & Half, or just fancy challenging yourself without the crowds, why not give the Brathay Tour of Loughrigg Event a go?

"Entering our virtual race costs just £5, and for every entry Skamper will donate £5 to Brathay."

The Tour will be live from 20 September to 22 October and once your entry has been approved you’re ready to run the course, any time you like. Simply open the course on your phone and head for the start.

You can use the app’s map on your phone to navigate the route. The checkpoints will help keep you on track, with an audible signal when you reach them. When you get to the finish the app will automatically stop and give you your result, placing you on the leaderboard for the event by Skamper grade, not time.

The Skamper Open Course Records for the Brathay Tour of Loughrigg are currently 35:41 for males and  39:58 for females.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Brathay Challenges website.

Image: Brathay Challenges