Battle of the Brampton Valley Way

Battle of the Brampton Valley Way

The event is an out-and-back run along the traffic-free Brampton Valley Way that pairs Market Harborough/Leicestershire against Northampton/shire. Runners choose which end to start from; there are 100 places available at each end and timing mats at both ends to provide halfway split times. Organiser Race Harborough will compare results from both sides using a mathematical model to determine which county performed best.

Distances include:

• 14 miles (22.5 km) one way
• 28 miles (45 km) round trip, a little over a marathon and classed as an ultra

The route is largely flat with approximately 280 m of elevation gain and runs through rural Northamptonshire. The surface is hard packed and can be used with road or trail shoes; occasional puddles and a small ford are present. Two tunnels are on course, measuring 294 m and 422 m, and a head torch or small handheld torch is required. The tunnel surfaces have ruts and puddles.

Support and logistics: professional first aid will be available at the start and finish with course access; volunteers will staff road crossings, with the A508 being the busiest crossing. Feed stations are placed every 4.5 miles (four in total). Toilets are available at both ends and at the turnaround. The race is cupless; runners must bring their own cup or hydration vest.

Entry requirements and rules: minimum age is 18 on race day. Canicross is not permitted due to narrow sections and two-way running. Entries and transfers close seven days before the event. The race cut-off time is seven hours. All finishers receive a commemorative event medal; prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers. Free digital race photos will be available after the event. Charity support for 2026 focuses on Jubilee Foodbank, Market Harborough, and Weston Favell Centre Foodbank, Northampton. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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