Centurion North Downs Way 50
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Event Overview
The North Downs Way 50 (NDW50) is a 50-mile point-to-point trail run along the North Downs Way National Trail. It starts in Farnham, Surrey and finishes in Knockholt Pound, on the outskirts of Greater London. The total climb for the event is 5,600 feet. This is the event's 15th annual edition and the second race in the 50 Mile Grand Slam series.
Course Description
The course follows the first 50 miles of the NDW100 route. Beginning at the western end of the North Downs in Farnham, the trail passes Puttenham and Guildford. It continues to Ranmore Common before the steepest climb of the race up to the top of Box Hill. The route then descends before climbing Colley Hill, continues through Merstham to Oxted, and finishes a further 8 miles later in Knockholt Pound.
The terrain is approximately 20% road and 80% trail. The event is held under a full UK Athletics Permit granted by the TRA.
Key Information
- Distance: 50 miles (81 km).
- Elevation: 5,600 feet (1,700 m).
- Date: 16 May 2026.
- Time Limit: 13 hours.
- Entry Fee: £115 (or £117 for unaffiliated runners).
Participation Rules
All entrants must have completed a marathon-distance race within its official cut-off time between 1 January 2020 and race day. Pacers and crews are not permitted. Spectators are welcome along the route but are not allowed near aid stations.
Event Features
There are 6 fully stocked aid stations along the course, offering a variety of provisions suitable for different dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Hot food and drinks are available at the finish.
A finisher medal is awarded to all who complete the course within the time limit. Additional prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers and to winners in veteran categories.
Runners must carry mandatory equipment, which is subject to random checks. Required items include a fully charged mobile phone, a waterproof jacket with sealed seams, a headtorch or primary light source, and a GPS tracking unit supplied at registration. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
