Mitch Hutchcraft breaks World Record with ultra marathons to support rescue dogs
He completed 16 back-to-back ultra marathons to raise awareness of dog adoption
Mitch Hutchcraft has set a new World Record by running 16 back-to-back ultra marathons and covering 720 km from the UK’s lowest point, Holme Fen near Ramsey, Cambridgeshire, to its highest peak, Ben Nevis.
The 32-year-old adventurer reached Ben Nevis’ summit on 20th December after starting on 5th December, braving freezing winter conditions to complete his challenge. This effort shines a spotlight on overcrowding in dog rescue centres and the growing crisis around illegal puppy breeding in the UK.
Hutchcraft said the challenge, named the Great British Dog Walk Challenge, was inspired by his rescue dog, Teddy, who was rescued from an unregistered puppy farm. Teddy's story motivated him to highlight issues in the illegal puppy trade and encourage families to adopt rather than shop for their pets.
Who joined him?
Many supporters joined Mitch on parts of his journey, including endurance world record holder Mark Beaumont, members of the public, and their dogs. He also gained virtual backing from high-profile figures including Ben Fogle, England goalkeeper Joe Hart, Ally McCoist OBE, and Ollie Ollerton from SAS: Who Dares Wins.
Hutchcraft completed the challenge after recovering from his world-first cross-continental expedition earlier this year, where he swam the English Channel, cycled across 18 countries to India, and scaled Mount Everest.
Pressures on dog rescue centres
Throughout the challenge, Hutchcraft and his team visited five dog rescue centres across the UK, including Dogs Trust Glasgow. Staff reported record numbers of dogs arriving with behavioural and health issues, often with limited information about their backgrounds.
Industry estimates suggest only 15%–20% of UK dogs come from licensed breeders. This leaves the majority bred through unlicensed or illegal operations, creating strain on rescue centres who are left to provide care.
Lauren Smith from Dogs Trust Glasgow said, “We always recommend families reach out to ADCH who are an umbrella organisation for reputable rehoming organisations. To be part of the ADCH a rehoming centre would have to operate to a high standard of animal welfare.”
Advocating adoption
During his journey, Hutchcraft encouraged dog owners and the public to “adopt, not shop,” meeting volunteers and rescue workers to spread awareness. Hutchcraft said, “The more light we can shine on what these dogs go through, the more people we can encourage to consider the incredible animals waiting in rescue centres.”