Howard Dracup is an Ultra-running coach and Montane Athlete based in Cumbria who has a love for taking on technical terrain all around the globe. We were fortunate enough to have Howard take a GoPro and record a sunrise ascent up Blencathra in the Northern Fells. Also known as Saddleback, it has an elevation of 2,848ft and offers a steep hike, slightly loose ground in many places and of course stunning views of the Northern Lake District.
Getting into running later in life Howard found long-distance running on tough terrain to be very meditative with numerous benefits to mental health. With some of the toughest ultras ticked off his list, in places such as Snowdonia, Vietnam, and the Lake District, he's no stranger to pushing himself to get to the trig point or finish line. Not only does he take part in these extreme challenges, he’s also a coach for ultra-running and likes to teach and inspire anyone who wishes to try fell running for themselves. Howard finds the most rewarding thing about coaching other people is watching their journey of progression over months or even years, to grow their confidence and smash their goals, not only in an athletic sense but for life in general.
“My favourite thing about being an Ultra Running Coach is being able to watch a person self-develop. To watch them grow, blossom and bloom”
One of Howard’s favourite places to run is the southern and western fells in the Lake District due to the challenging rockiness of the terrain, which he says gives him quite a buzz, however, he’s so familiar with that area he can always suggest softer ground for anyone wanting an easier run. Using GoPro Howard documented a picturesque sunrise scramble up Blencathra in the Lakes, especially for Blacks.
Howard’s ambassador work for Montane is a match made in heaven. His desire to take on the most challenging routes and races combined with his love of the sport really reflects the heart and soul of Montane. With products that are simple, versatile and most importantly high performance it’s no surprise that Montane is one of the most popular choices for gear among fell runners and hikers. We took the opportunity to get an in-depth review of the Men's Waterproof Pac Plus XT GORE-TEX Jacket!
So, the Pac Plus XT waterproof jacket is quite frankly awesome and probably doesn’t get the credit it deserves! I opted for the oxide orange colour, which I think is pretty unique, so it’s very eye-catching- It talks the talk AND It can walk the walk too, here’s why! I felt like the cut of the jacket was athletic, tailored and not too baggy. The arms are articulated though, so when you reach up to scramble or climb the sleeve doesn’t pull up your forearm. There is also an adjustable Velcro strap on each wrist which I liked. It is super lightweight and packable, it does what it says on the tin (PAC PLUS!) I found that I could compress and roll it down really small hardly taking up any packing space and it’s that light I didn’t know I had it in my pack (375g).
