Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge
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Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge - event overview
The Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge takes place on 2 - 3 May 2026 with a basecamp at Chale. Routes follow the island coastal path, including the southern cliffs, the Needles, Cowes, and Ventnor. The full continuous route is clockwise around much of the island and has approximately 1,800 m of climb. Options include multi-day formats and shorter routes that start or finish at Cowes or Culver Down. There are camping packages and shuttle transfers available, plus parking at the basecamp.
- 106 km full continuous clockwise - ~1800 m climb
- 106 km full over 2 days - 52 km + 54 km, ~900 m climb each day
- 82 km 3/4 Challenge - ~1300 m climb
- 52 km 1st Half - Chale to Cowes - ~900 m climb
- 54 km 2nd Half - Cowes to Chale - ~900 m climb
- 50 km Southern 50 loop - ~1025 m climb
- 25 km Quarter options
- 10 miles Medina Challenge in Cowes
Routes, categories and support
The event offers category options including an ULTRA MARCH® walking category (100 km in under 24 hours or 50 km in under 12 hours), and the new ULTRA TRAILBLAZERZ® for faster, time-targeted runners (100 km and 50 km target windows vary by event). A Solo Challenger start option is available.
Rest stops are provided about every 12.5 km, with major stops every ~25 km. Rest stops include marquee cover, catering, seating, medical and welfare tents, and massage teams. Snacks and drinks are supplied regularly and main meals are provided at larger stops. The route is fully signed with arrows and GPS tracking via a mobile app. Finishers receive a medal, finisher T-shirt, and a glass of fizz. Shuttle buses to local train stations and other transfers are offered as bookable extras. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
