Race The Tide founder, Ewan Frost-Pennington, talks about how Race the Tide began and how it's come to be an annual event people come back to every year. Prefer to listen to Ewan's dulcet tones? Check out his podcast interview here:

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How it BEGAN

When I was young, there used to be a race in the valley, called the Muncaster Luck Fell Race. I remember it well as I was in awe of the runners who ran from the far horizon and then stormed up the horribly steep bank on which the Castle sits to the rousing applause at the spectacular finish. I never competed as regrettably I was still too young when the race was cancelled for the foreseeable future.

So six years ago in an attempt to bring back the exhilaration and excitement to Muncaster, I, with the help of my friends, created my own adventure race. Admittedly, like with every first attempt, it was a little chaotic at times as we trialed out obstacles for the very first time, seeing how far we could push our limits. My dad realized he wasn't quite as good at scout rope bridge building as he remembered (one of the toughest obstacles we’ve had to date!). But feedback was immense, people loved it and I enjoyed having everyone visit my home and sharing this epic experience.

THE GROWTH of race the tide

Since then, with the continued support of my friends and family, the race has grown allowing my crazy ideas to come to fruition as we become more creative with the obstacles and course. Their input has transformed Race the Tide to be far more than a hectic obstacle race, with the whole weekend packed with unique experiences, including castle tours, amazing bird flying displays, camping, hot showers, a wild ceilidh and a treasure trail! ​

What started as a group of friends having fun has now developed into a crazy community of over 200 people.

It keeps evolving year on year, but we have always made sure to keep it true to its core - an excuse to hang out and do something cool with a group of friends, which very much feels like a community event. By the way, it has also stimulated the resurrection of the traditional Muncaster Luck Fell Race which takes place every spring. Double success!

​- Ewan