Crocodile Challenge
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Crocodile Challenge
The Crocodile Challenge is a six-hour running event held at Ryton Pools Country Park near Coventry (CV8 3BH). The format lets participants run, hike or walk as many laps of a 3.3-mile out-and-back loop as they choose within the six-hour limit. The event donates 7.5% of entry fees to Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity and has donated a limited number of charity places. Canicross entries are allowed with short leads and a specific canicross race category. Rucking is also permitted.
Course, facilities and practical details
The course is relatively flat with a few small rises. Surface is mainly crushed stone with a short single-track section and some looser patches, routed around pools and open pasture. On-site facilities include a cafe and a toilet block next to the event headquarters; parking costs up to £5 depending on duration. Ryton Pools is about 15 minutes south of Coventry and about 15 minutes from Junction 16 of the M1; the nearest train stations are Rugby and Coventry. The route GPX is available but may be subject to last-minute changes. The event offers a traditional medal or a Big Bear Tree Token that results in a tree being planted and contains wildflower seeds.
- One lap - 3.3 miles (just over 5k)
- Half marathon - 4 laps
- Marathon - 8 laps
- Ultramarathon potential - 50+ miles within six-hour limit
Entry fees are tiered: before 23/12/2025 £37, from 23/12/2025 £42; unaffiliated entrants pay £2 extra. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.