2022 Edition

3rd September 2022

600km distance

12,282m elevation

The 2022 edition of Pure Peak Grit saw a modest increase in finishers compared to the 2019 edition, with 10 hardy riders crossing the finishing line, though eleven had to make the tough call to scratch - a testament to the grueling demands of this 600km route through the Peak District's most challenging ascents. The route was adapted from the 2019 edition, however it retained the difficulty level of the route from a couple of years prior.

Riders set off in the morning from the Heeley Institute under overcast skies, spirits high as they faced the notorious Peak District hills. With only 21 starters out of 64 originally registered, the commitment required was clear. From the get-go, Matt Seward led the charge, with Adam Bibbey not far behind. The day’s climbs, like Holme Moss and Windgather, set a punishing pace, and by evening, the weather became a factor with intermittent showers adding to the physical toll placed on all of the riders.

By nightfall, a few riders, including Matt, had opted for quick stops, while others like Adam powered through, catching up and eventually overtaking to lead the pack. As anticipated, Bamford Clough became the scene of many a rider choosing to walk, a reminder that even the best gears couldn't quite conquer every Peak.

With darkness settling in, exhaustion and a few navigation errors affected riders across the board. The Halfway Hall, open for food and rest, became a much-needed reprieve around the 272km mark. By midnight, some riders like Andy and Giles had inadvertently detoured but were permitted to rejoin from another point, determined to cover the full course. Despite setbacks, the camaraderie was strong, with volunteers and dotwatchers encouraging riders through the night.

The early morning brought thunderstorms, with the worst of the rain hitting just before dawn. Some riders, including John, sought shelter in unlikely places, like public toilets in Edale, while Matt and Adrian battled through soaked climbs in waterproofs. By midday, scratches from fatigue and weather-related issues began trickling in, but five riders made it back within the 48hr goal, with Michal scraping in just 7 minutes before the <48hr milestone.

As the clock edged towards the 72hr mark, only six riders remained. Zlatimira, resting overnight in Tideswell to avoid the storm, became the first female finisher, crossing the line with remarkable energy and proving the wisdom of waiting out the elements. Giles and Andy finished later in the evening, managing the climbs up Burbage Moor in the dark to complete the course...a true example of grit!

Karen, the final rider on the road, fought through one last thunderstorm with only 30km remaining, wisely taking shelter to rest before her final push in the early hours. The quiet streets of Sheffield greeted her as she reached the Heeley Institute, where volunteers welcomed her warmly, closing out the 2022 edition.


This year’s Pure Peak Grit would not have been possible without the dedication of the organising team of Alaina, Jasmijn and Nicky, along with an “army” of volunteers who provided everything from logistical support to morale-boosting coffee breaks along the route. From tracking updates to search efforts when Emre’s bike was stolen (and later recovered outside a kebab shop, thankfully unscathed), the community rallied around each rider.


Despite grueling weather, challenging terrain and a high attrition rate, riders and organisers alike look back on the Pure Peak Grit 2022 with pride. Many of the scratches vowed to return for the next edition, drawn by the beauty and the challenge of the route. With lower gears already on some riders’ shopping lists, it’s clear the Pure Peak spirit has inspired a special breed of cyclist.

As the dust settles on this year’s edition, one thing’s certain: Pure Peak Grit 2022 was an unforgettable journey, a testament to the grit and camaraderie of the cycling community, and a tantalising invitation to the next edition's hopefuls.

PPG 2022 Finishers


Adam Bibbey - M - 36hrs 37mins

Matt Seward - M - 37hrs 43mins

Adrian Lai - M - 37hrs 51mins

John Barkman - M - 45hrs 23mins

Michal Durec - M - 47hrs 53mins

Zlatimira Petrova - F - 52hrs 6mins

Emre Leo Feyzi - M - 56hrs 33mins

Andy Callow - M - 58hrs 50mins

Giles Aldridge - M - 59hrs 5mins

Karen McDonald - F - 65hrs 50mins