Inspiring women of the Cape Wrath Ultra

It’s no secret that the world of ultra-running has historically been dominated by men. Despite women often performing well at longer distances, they make up less than a quarter of participants at ultra races.

The Cape Wrath Ultra® however has a history of strong performances from women – in 2021, Sally Fawcett and Lisa Watson came 2nd and 3rd overall, outperforming the vast majority of the men. With international women’s day just around the corner, we are looking to celebrate some of the awesome women taking on these challenges.  

Lisa Watson (left) and Sally Fawcett (right) after their success at the 2021 Cape Wrath Ultra® No Limits Photography

One of these women breaking boundaries is Sarah Perry. Sarah recently made waves when she set a new female record on the Lake, Meres and Waters challenge. In 2021, she also set a new Fastest Known Time on the Coast to Coast route, a record previously held by Sabrina Verjee, another Cape Wrath Ultra alumnus. This year she has her sights set on the epic Cape Wrath Ultra and we can’t wait to see how she fairs.

A chat with Sarah Perry

Could you tell us a little bit about your background as a runner?

I've always run, for a variety of different reasons, but have only really discovered ultra running within the last 4-5 years. I really love pushing what I believe are my limits and am always looking for something more difficult to attempt.

My favourite running moment is probably completing the Bob Graham Round last year. Being in the hills is my favourite type of running and the Lakes is on my doorstep, which makes the route even more special.

In the past, I've leaned towards non-stop ultras - it's just what I know- but I'm determined to try some new running challenges in the coming years

Sarah on a recent adventure ©Will H P Photography

What is it that first drew you to the Cape Wrath Ultra?

I have never completed a multi-day ultra and so naturally, felt that it would be a great challenge. Running non-stop ultras is fun but I think a multi-stage event could be a completely different challenge. I think the 'admin' side of things could become challenging, particularly if we are unlucky with the weather.

How have you been going about training?

One thing that I've focused on is planning more back-to-back adventure days, for example, I did the West Highland Way over a few days with my friend. We carried everything we needed and it was useful to know how I'd feel getting up to run again the second and third day with lots of miles in the legs.

I've also been lucky enough to spend some time along the Cape Wrath route, this was useful as it allowed me to get a feel for the different terrain and this will also help with kit choices.

What are you most looking forward to?

The scenery, the challenge and meeting lots of like minded people. I'm approaching Cape Wrath as an adventure holiday more than a race and want to come away knowing that I've had the best experience that I possibly could have.

What do you think the main barriers are for women looking to enter events like the Cape Wrath Ultra?

Generally, by the time women feel experienced enough to enter an event such as Cape Wrath, they have family and/or work commitments that make taking so much time out incredibly difficult.

I think as women, we're so conscious of others and so, are more likely to feel guilty about going off on our own adventures. It's also worth considering that lots of people will need to take a huge chunk of their annual leave to attend a multi -day event.

There is also the issue of worrying about where we will be within our menstrual cycle: I don't believe the lack of showers and sleeping arrangements would put off women any more than men, however, imagine how much difficult being on your period would make this challenge? It's just not ideal logistically and could make for a pretty miserable time.

What do you think can be done to encourage more women to take part in ultra events like the Cape Wrath Ultra?

Besides making places easy to defer, I think the issues are beyond an easy fix. Perhaps a shorter course would help. I think it’s also important to be transparent about what you can offer if women are on their period at some point during the race.

LEarn what we’re doing to make our events as inclusive as possible

Check out our equality, diversity and inclusion policy, which includes information about our pregnancy deferral policy, our provision of menstrual products, and our other measures to ensure our events are accessible to all.

Looking for more inspiration?

Feeling inspired by Sarah?

Entries open for the 2024 Cape Wrath Ultra on 10th May 2023.

Or join us for our special women’s only webinar about women in ultra running. The women at Ourea Events will be chatting to 2 inspirational women: Katie Mills (winner of the 2021 Dragon’s Back Race) and Laura O Driscoll (winner of the 2022 Cape Wrath Ultra).

There will also be the opportunity to ask any questions you may have - we look forward to seeing you there!

Laura O Driscoll crosses the finish line after winning the Cape Wrath Ultra ©No Limits Photography