HT550 – The First Finisher is In!

May 25, 2021
and

The Highland Trail 550, 550 miles in length with over 16000m of climbing, started on Saturday morning, 22nd May, and the first finisher is already in. With some diversions in place this year, it’s not clear that this will stand as an official record time, but it is Very Fast. More impressive still, winner Liam Glen is on a singlespeed Stooge Scrambler.

Liam crossed the line in 3 days, 10 hours and 55 minutes, having led the race from the outset. Second, third and fourth place riders are much closer, though fourth-placed Josh Ibbett may just have lost touch with Andrew Hutcheson and James Hayden. Annie Le is leading the way for the women, though Emma Holgate isn’t far behind.

On hearing the news, Stooge Bikes owner, Andy Stevenson said, “Does this mean the Scrambler is now a pedigree race bike? But seriously, I’m in absolute bloody awe of Liam’s achievement, he’s a single-speed God and should be carried aloft. The fact he’s on the bike I designed for this kind of stuff is an unexpected delight. Or in proper English, I’m over the effin moon. But this is definitely about the athlete and not the bike. What an achievement!”

Of the over 60s in the race, Ian McNab is leading the way, Mike Sheldrake has scratched, but oldest rider Chris Johnstone is still going.

Joining Mike on the scratch list are 14 other riders, including organiser Alan Goldsmith. The first couple of days were pretty cold and wet, and if you weren’t feeling it or had an unlucky run on mechanicals it was tough going. For the remaining riders out there, the forecast is improving, though there’s enough water sloshing around on the ground that it’ll certainly not be ‘dry’ for some time yet.

10 Bikes of the Highland Trail 550

7 More Bikes of the HT550 and how to follow them

Highland Trail 550 | 2019 ‘Epic Wet Edition’ – What Did It Take To Get Round?

Singletrack Merch

Ultimate Winter Zipped Hoodie

Our ultimate zipped hoodie. Super thick with cog logo embroidered to the front and a printed logo on the back. Check full description for sizing Free postage for members DELIVERY INFORMATION: As these products are 'print on demand', please allow 7 days for dispatch.

Singletrack Sponsored Features

Simply better than laces: 12 BOA® off-road cycling shoes

The BOA system has been a replacement technology for laces since the mid 90's but how was it invented and by whom?

Dalby Bike Barn

We are based on the A170/Whitby Gate junction right in the centre of the village Thornton Le Dale offering high expertise on all things bike- stocking the best brands with bike and electric bike hire and a comprehensive Service Centre. Expert Guiding and Instruction will also be available for all group…

Author Profile Picture

More than bikes, I like what bikes do. I think that they link people and places; that cycling creates a connection between us and our environment; bikes create communities; deliver freedom; bring joy; and improve fitness. They're environmentally friendly and create friendly environments.

More posts from Hannah