Martin Dobson has joined one of the most exclusive clubs in British endurance running after completing the gruelling Hardmoors 200 while raising funds for the Nikki Waterhouse Trust.
Widely regarded as one of the toughest ultramarathons in the UK, the Hardmoors 200 covers around 200 miles of challenging North Yorkshire terrain and gives runners just 60 hours to reach the finish line. This year’s event, staged over the May Bank Holiday weekend in soaring temperatures, tested competitors to their limits.
Dobson crossed the finish line in an impressive 55 hours and 13 minutes, securing his place among a remarkably small group of runners to have completed the event.
Since the race was first established, fewer than 150 runners have attempted the Hardmoors 200 and only around 50 have successfully finished. This year’s race was just the fifth edition of the event.
NIKKI WATERHOUSE TRUST
But for Dobson, the challenge was about more than endurance alone.
Throughout the race he was raising funds and awareness for the Nikki Waterhouse Trust, a charity that supports young people and families facing difficult circumstances.
The Trust was established in memory of Nicole “Nikki” Waterhouse, who died in October 2013 aged 32. Nikki worked at Hunters between 1999 and 2008 before taking time out to travel in Thailand and Australia.
She returned to York in 2009, rejoining the sales team at Hunters Head Office. Following her death, the Trust was created by her father John Waterhouse alongside fellow directors Kevin Hollinrake, Glynis Frew, Ed Jones and Martin Robinson.
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT
Battling fatigue, sleep deprivation, relentless mileage and exceptionally hot weather, Dobson drew motivation from the cause he was supporting.
Friends, family and fellow runners have praised his determination and resilience, recognising both the scale of the sporting achievement and the impact his fundraising efforts will have.
Completing the Hardmoors 200 is a feat achieved by very few runners. Doing so in difficult conditions while supporting a charity close to his heart makes the achievement all the more remarkable.
Dobson’s success stands as a testament to endurance, commitment and the power of purpose, demonstrating what can be achieved when personal challenge is combined with a desire to make a difference.
