The main race route is around 10km (6 miles) and with 340m (1000') of ascent.
The race is run under FRA regulations as a Category B Medium event.
Under these regulations, the main race is open to people aged 18 or over. Under 18s please check the 'juniors' page.
The regulations include a safety requirement that competitors arrive at the event ready to carry full kit, comprising full windproof body cover, a map and compass suitable for navigating the course and a whistle.
So far, the weather for the event has always been sufficiently good to allow the race organiser to waive the kit requirement. But this is England so one thing that cannot be counted on is the weather. Please bring full kit and a means of carrying it with you, as you will not be allowed to compete, or disqualifed, if the race organiser decides kit must be carried and you do not have it.
If kit is to be carried, there will be signs at and around registration.
The route is unique, varied and challenging. Its uniqueness shows itself early as most of the first km is downhill, going over fields, down a steep bank and then down a track. From there it is over some fields and a gentle start to climbing before a bottleneck at a stile (please wait patiently and DO NOT climb the fence) gives an excuse for a breather before the first and biggest climb makes itself felt, up to the trig point on Durham Edge. From there it is on to Abney Moor with a descent over rough ground to a small reservoir before heading up to the highest point on the Moor. From there a fast descent to the road, a short stetch of tarmac before heading down into Bretton Clough. Find your way through the bumps and hillocks of the Clough before climbing out the top end of it toward Abney Grange. Over some fields before dropping down through the woods to the finishing stretch through the village.
Please do not train on or recconoitre the route. The route uses a lot of private land away from rights of way. The event depends on continued goodwill from over 10 different landowners. Please do no jeopardise the event by trespassing.
Route profile:
