The Dark Downs
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The Dark Downs
The Dark Downs are night trail races on the South Downs based at Plumpton Racecourse, Lewes. The event uses looped courses that start at dusk and run into the darkness across rolling hills and runnable trails. The terrain is described as untechnical and suitable for running in low light.
Distances offered include:
- 50 km
- Half Marathon
- 20 mile
Runners and walkers are allocated time limits of six and twelve hours to complete their races. The 50 km race is included in a new South Downs "50k" Triple Crown series that links several 50 km events on the South Downs.
The course is fully marked with high visibility reflective signage. Aid stations will be provided and volunteers will staff them. Marshals are placed at regular intervals along the route.
Night running is presented as an opportunity to gain race-format experience in the dark and to practice skills relevant to longer ultras and winter races. The South Downs hold a Dark Sky Reserve Award from 2016, noted for clear starry nights, which is highlighted as a feature of running after dusk. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
