Butser Hill Challenge
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Butser Hill Challenge
The Butser Hill Challenge is a timed fell run held on the highest point in the South Downs National Park. The 2026 event takes place on 20 September at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE. Entries are open via the organiser's Eventrac page.
The race is open to all. Junior races cover school years 3 to 11 and a senior fell race is for age 16 and over, allowing participants aged seven and older to take part. The event was founded in 1978 and predates the first London Marathon. Over the years it has raised more than £200,000 for charities; the 2026 event supports The New Blendworth Centre (Registered Charity No 1152182).
Race procedures include collection of race numbers on the day; numbers must be worn on the front and have contact and medical details completed on the back. Participants must not swap numbers.
Distances by category:
- School Year 3 - Approx. 1 km
- School Year 4 - Approx. 1 km
- School Year 5 - Approx. 1 km
- School Years 6 and 7 - Approx. 2 km
- School Years 8 to 11 - Approx. 3 km
- Senior fell run (min age 16) - Approx. 5 miles
Facilities at the venue include toilets, first aid, refreshments and free race parking when following the event signs from the A3. There are no changing rooms and bag storage is limited. Good trainers are essential; off-road studs are recommended in wet conditions. Spikes are not permitted. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
