South Downs (Summer Event)
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South Downs 50 km
The South Downs 50 km is a point to point trail race from Falmer (University of Brighton) to Eastbourne (Helen Garden), mainly following the South Downs Way through the South Downs National Park and finishing at the white cliffs of Beachy Head. The route covers the classic ultra distance of 50 km and includes about 3,500 feet of ascent and descent over mostly grass trails, with some farm tracks and forest paths. The course is described as largely runnable and not technical, with 99% trail and 1% road.
Entries are first come, first served with no waitlist; places close either one week before the race or when limits are reached. No qualifier is required and minimum age is 20 years. The event provides four aid stations, live GPS tracking and chip timing, and a mandatory GPS tracker included in the entry price. The race is a UTMB Index event awarding 2 ITRA points and forms part of the South Downs 50K Triple Crown.
Included items and services listed for participants include a bespoke finisher medal, winner trophies, downloadable photos, prizes for vet categories, event insurance, first aid and medical cover, and a free shuttle bus from the finish to local hotels and Eastbourne train station. Refunds, deferrals and transfer rules apply with partial refunds available up to a stated date and exceptions for pregnancy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.