Badger Challenge
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Event overview
The Badger Challenge is a six-hour off-road running event organised by Big Bear Events and scheduled for 27 February 2026 at Beacon Hill Country Park, Leicestershire. Participants complete as many laps of a loop as they wish within the six-hour limit. The event allows running, hiking, walking and rucking.
Location and access
The event base is the lower car park at Beacon Hill Country Park (LE12 8TA). Parking is charged at £3 for under three hours and £4 for the day; card or coin payments are accepted. The nearest train station is Loughborough, about 6 miles away.
Format and distances
The loop is an off-road circuit of about 3.3 miles. Typical benchmark distances on the lap count are:
- 3.3 miles per lap
- 4 laps = half marathon distance
- 8 laps = marathon distance
Runners may stop after a single lap or continue to cover longer distances within six hours.
Course and rules
The route climbs from the lower car park for the first half and descends on the second half, mainly on crushed stone pathways. Underfoot is generally stable but may be muddy depending on weather. Canicross is permitted; leads should be kept short and handlers must be considerate of others. A GPX file of the route is available for download.
Extras
Finishers are offered a medal or, as an alternative, a tree token that funds a tree planting and contains wildflower seeds. The event partners with a children’s charity for optional fundraising. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
