During the challenging Montane Winter Spine MRT Challenger North, Clëo Bishop-Bolt, a dedicated mountain rescue volunteer, paused her race to save a lost dog stranded at the peak of Cheviot, the highest mountain in Northumberland. This heartwarming moment occurred amidst the grueling 160-mile endurance race, which took place in freezing conditions.
The Rescue
As Clëo approached the summit, she encountered a dog that was lost and whimpering in the cold. Despite experiencing extreme fatigue and hallucinations due to lack of sleep, she recognized the urgency of the situation. Clëo stated, "I could hear the poor thing whimpering; it must have been freezing up there." She immediately decided to help, crouching down to gain the dog's attention. The dog responded by coming closer to her.
Improvisation and Teamwork
With no collar on the dog, Clëo and fellow competitor Paula Dimond ingeniously fashioned a makeshift leash using a jumper. They contacted race officials who met them at a nearby rescue hut, ensuring that the dog was safe and warm. The local estates team later took charge of reuniting the dog with its owner.
Race Completion
Despite the time spent on this compassionate detour, Clëo completed the race in an impressive 88 hours, securing third place in the women's category. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed that helping the shivering dog was more important than her race position: "I told myself I had to stop and help this cold little creature."
A Community's Gratitude
The incident has garnered widespread admiration for Clëo's actions. Jamie Pattison, team leader of the Northumberland National Mountain Rescue Team (NNPMRT), praised her for embodying the spirit of mountain rescue while also completing such a demanding race. He remarked, "Not only has she completed a grueling mountain race while raising funds for our team, but she also exemplified the highest standards of mountain rescue."
Conclusion
The story of Clëo Bishop-Bolt serves as a reminder of humanity's capacity for kindness and bravery even in the most challenging circumstances. Her selfless act not only saved a life but also highlighted the camaraderie and spirit of adventure present in extreme sports.