Manx Fell Runners

A 60 mile route involving 11,400 ft. of ascent traversing all 37 of the Isle of Man’s mountains over 1000 ft.

In memory of Robert (Bob) Baxter who died on 11th August 2002. Bob, a popular fell runner was the first to complete the traverse in 1977.

In 1972 local athlete Ian Callister had the idea of planning a route that encompassed all the Isle of Man’s peaks over 1000 feet. However, it wasn’t until 1975, following several reconnoiters by Ian and fellow runner Robert (Bob) Baxter that the 60 mile course, which ascends 11,400 feet, including 37 peaks was finally completed. Bob, in 1977, was the first to complete the traverse in 14 hours and 55 minutes and the course became known as the ‘Bob Baxter’. He improved his time by a further two hours the following year. Bob sadly died on 11th August 2002. Only a handful of runners have completed the challenge, with Ian in 2003 and Christine Barwell being the latest in 2007, the 30th anniversary. Christine completed the course in 21hrs 2mins to become the first women to complete it.

Ian Callister had his first of three finishes in 1982, the year Colin Donnelly set the record of 11 hours 35 minutes, which still stands today.

Although the traverse is usually completed in one day, the views are more enjoyable if taken at a more leisurely pace over three days.

The ability to use a map and compass is essential. The most suitable maps are Ordnance Survey number 95 scale 1:50000 and Isle of Man Public Rights of Way scale 1:25000.

For further information and a detailed route description visit just contact MFR through the website.