Centurion South Downs Way 50
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Event details
The South Downs Way 50® takes place on 11 April 2026. It is a 50 mi (81 km) foot race along the South Downs Way National Trail, starting in Worthing and finishing with a lap of the athletics track in Eastbourne. Total climb on the course is 5,700 ft (1,750 m). Terrain is listed as about 85% trail and 15% road. The race has a 13 hour finish cut-off and additional cut-offs at aid stations. Entries open 26 April 2025; there are 650 places available on open registration and 50 additional guaranteed volunteer places. Minimum age is 20 and entrants must have completed at least a marathon within the applicable cut-off time between 1 January 2021 and race day.
Course, support and rules
Runners begin with roughly six miles of chalk footpaths and bridleways to join the South Downs Way at Chanctonbury Ring. The remainder of the route follows the final 44 miles of the South Downs Way 100, with a planned deviation at Alfriston that sends runners over Windover Hill to Jevington rather than the Seven Sisters footpath. The course is marked by South Downs Way waymarkers, red and white tape and Centurion arrows; several road crossings are un-marshelled and must be negotiated by runners.
Support includes seven aid stations (including the finish) stocked with hydration, gels, hot drinks at Alfriston and Jevington, and hot food at the finish. Medical cover comprises static first aid teams, rapid response vehicles and race ambulances. Crew and pacers are not permitted on course except on the finishing track lap. A finisher medal is awarded and prizes are given to top finishers and vet categories. Mandatory kit is required and carries a one hour time penalty if items are missing. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
