Buxton, base for the two events. Photo: Onofre Bouvila CC BY 2.5

Organisers of the Original Mountain Marathon have revealed plans for a summer version of the event, along with a mountain biking marathon.

Both events later this month will be based in the Peak District and will run over two days.

The Original Mountain Marathon Lite is described as a summer incarnation of the main OMM, which started life as the Karrimor International Mountain Marathon in 1968.

The main race attracts up to 3,000 competitors. Elite-level runners have to complete two full mountain marathons, carrying all their gear, with an overnight camp between.

Both the OMM Lite and OMM Bike will be based in Buxton.

The team behind the events said: “OMM have been organising events for over 40 years and these two new events are designed to introduce new people to the sports of mountain navigation and mountain biking and to provide a summer version of the famous OMM Event.

“Starting from Buxton, there will be two days of events either with an overnight wild camp or, for the less adventurous, a return to base.

“The key feature of the events is navigation using only a map and compass on foot or by bike. No GPS or similar devices are allowed.

“There will be an elite class in OMM Lite in which teams of two will run a full marathon on both days. To give younger people the chance to compete the event is also open to 16-year-olds provided they run with an adult and with permission from parents or guardians.

“OMM Bike’s hardest course is the Polaris Challenge. This is the original mountain-bike marathon.

“Originally conceived in 1987 it has set the standard for mountain biking. Competitors can compete singly or in pairs and experience the challenges of biking in wild terrain.”

Stuart Hamilton, OMM events director added: “It is important for people to take exercise. Being out in the mountains can be the most exhilarating and refreshing way to do this.

“If you add in the dimension of navigation it also taxes the brain. OMM Bike and OMM Lite will provide the perfect blend of all these elements in one of the most beautiful parts of the British Isles.

“With the support of local retailers and the University of Derby we are looking forwards to two very exciting inaugural events.”

The two marathons will take place on 18 and 19 May.