River Ayr Way Challenge
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River Ayr Way Challenge (Ultra Marathon)
The River Ayr Way Challenge on 12 Sep 2026 is a 40 mile ultra marathon from Glenbuck Loch to Riverside Stadium, Ayr. The event marks 20 years of the River Ayr Way Challenge and includes an ultra and a relay option.
The course is mainly off road with some quiet road sections and the final five miles on tarmac. Running conditions in some sections can be very muddy. Checkpoints occur at roughly 10 mile intervals with fruit, cold drinks and bag drop; water stations are provided approximately every 5 miles. Drop-bags are conveyed to checkpoints and rucksacks are conveyed to the finish. First aid will be available and route diversions, if used, will be signposted.
Relay teams can comprise two or three members and the route is divided into three sections:
- Section 1: Glenbuck to Sorn, 17 miles, mainly off road
- Section 2: Sorn to Annbank, 14 miles, mainly off road with some on road
- Section 3: Annbank to Ayr, 9 miles, mainly on road and tarmac paths
Riverside Stadium provides male and female designated changing, toilet and shower facilities and parking is available at the stadium or Ayr Academy car park. Transport to the start is arranged from Ayr and Kilmarnock with a charge payable via Entry Central. Maximum time allowed for the route is 10 hours.
Race rules prohibit pacers, muling or support runners, dogs, running aids and littering. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
