World-record–breaking veteran and adventurer Mitch Hutchcraft is setting out on a new mission this winter — a 700km endurance run visiting dog rescue centres across the UK to shine a spotlight on overcrowded shelters and the growing crisis of illegal dog breeding.
Just six months after completing the longest ascent of Mt. Everest in history, the 32-year-old former Royal Marine is preparing for another extreme physical test.
On 3rd December, he’ll leave his hometown of Ramsey — the UK’s lowest point — and run all the way to the summit of Ben Nevis, the highest.
His challenge, named The Great British Dog Walking Challenge, aims to raise national awareness around rescue dogs and inspire families to consider adoption when bringing a new pet into their home.
Hutchcraft won’t be alone on the journey. His loyal dog Buddy, who supported him during sections of his Everest expedition, will join him again. Also by his side: Teddy, his newly adopted rescue dog whose story sparked the entire project.
Teddy was saved from a puppy farm after spending four years confined to a concrete cage, unnamed, and treated purely as breeding stock. He was one of 28 cocker spaniels rescued in a single operation.
Despite still recovering from his 13,157km England-to-Everest expedition — which included swimming the English Channel, cycling across 18 countries, and running from India to the roof of the world — Hutchcraft is ready to push his limits again through freezing rain, snow, and marathon-after-marathon in December’s harsh conditions.
Hundreds of supporters are expected to join him along the route, with appearances from celebrity guests including former England goalkeeper Joe Hart and cast members from SAS: Who Dares Wins.
Hutchcraft says the mission goes far beyond fundraising:
“We’re at a crisis point in the UK. Shelters are overwhelmed, and thousands of brilliant dogs are waiting for homes,” he said.
“Adopting Teddy made it impossible for me to ignore what’s happening. This run is about giving those dogs a chance — showing people they have a real alternative to buying from breeders.”
Animal welfare has long been at the heart of Hutchcraft’s adventures. During his Everest expedition, he visited animal charities across Europe and Asia to witness the challenges rescues face worldwide.
His last mission pushed the boundaries of what sports scientists believed was even possible.
Over 237 days, he survived a storm-hit 19-hour Channel swim that cost him part of his tongue, dangerous road accidents, his team being held at gunpoint, and the mental and physical toll of a lifelong knee injury.
Yet he still became one of the first climbers to reach Everest’s summit that season.
For his latest challenge, Hutchcraft hopes to see dogs and owners from across the UK walk or run sections alongside him:
“You don’t need to run 700km to make a difference. Just show up, bring your dog, share the message. The more momentum we build, the more dogs we can help rehome.”
The public can follow the journey or get involved in The Great British Dog Walking Challenge by visiting @_mitchhutch on Instagram.
Photo Credit:
Mitch Hutchcraft
