Strathpuffer 2026
Monday 12 January 2026
On 10 January, eight students from Years 9 to 13 undertook the formidable challenge of the Strathpuffer, a renowned 24‑hour winter endurance mountain‑bike race. Building on a programme of structured training rides completed last term, the students approached the event exceptionally well prepared, both physically and mentally, and were ably supported throughout by staff.
The race commenced at 10:00 a.m. with a dynamic Le Mans–style start, immediately demanding strategic thinking and composure under pressure. Competing in a relay format, one cyclist from each team rode the course while the others coordinated support from basecamp. This required not only physical stamina but also strong teamwork, as students managed pacing strategies, equipment changes, nutrition and recovery. Between laps, they applied practical problem‑solving skills - maintaining warmth, monitoring hydration and energy levels, and preparing for rapid rider transitions to maximise efficiency.
The environmental conditions provided a real‑world laboratory for resilience and adaptive decision‑making. Early laps took place on compacted snow and ice, where the use of spiked tyres offered stability but required high levels of technical precision. As the temperature rose, the terrain shifted dramatically, transforming from firm snow to deep slush and mud. By the early hours of the morning, the course had become extremely demanding; in several sections, riders were compelled to dismount and run or push their bikes due to the treacherous surface.
Navigating this continuously evolving landscape required advanced bike‑handling skills, situational awareness and sound judgement. Students had to interpret changing trail conditions, adjust their technique accordingly, and manage fatigue during the night‑cycling segments - skills integral to outdoor leadership and expeditionary learning. Their sustained motivation and determination were evident as they continued to complete laps despite increasingly adverse conditions.
Against these considerable challenges, the team achieved a highly commendable total of 14 laps. Importantly, every student completed at least one lap, underscoring the collective nature of the accomplishment. The group demonstrated exemplary teamwork, mutual encouragement and an impressive level of psychological endurance.
This demanding experience provided students with not only a tangible athletic achievement but also meaningful learning outcomes: enhanced resilience, improved technical cycling skills, strengthened peer support networks and a deeper understanding of endurance‑based performance in unpredictable environments. It was, in every respect, an outstanding team effort.
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