The Drop - Bournemouth
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Event Concept
The Drop is a navigation challenge without a predetermined route. Participants are taken by bus from the event centre in Bournemouth to an undisclosed drop location. They are blindfolded during the journey and do not know the starting point or direction. When the blindfolds are removed, the objective is to find their own way back to the event centre on foot.
Challenges and Rules
Three distance options are available, measured as the crow flies:
- The Drop 6 (Non-Locals Only): A 6 mile option exclusively for participants who do not live in, train in, or have strong local knowledge of the area.
- The Drop 10: The 10 mile core challenge.
- The Drop 15: The 15 mile core challenge, described as the original and toughest version.
All personal electronic devices, watches, and navigational aids must be surrendered at registration. Participants receive a race number and a sealed emergency bag. No maps, GPS, or compasses are permitted, unless specifically provided by the organizers. Participants must travel on foot and cannot use any transport.
Process and Logistics
At registration, participants hand over all electronic devices and navigation aids and receive a race number and a sealed emergency bag. They then board a bus wearing blackout blindfolds (or approved alternatives like safety goggles) and are driven to the drop location. The actual distance traveled will be longer than the stated "as the crow flies" distance.
An optional live GPS tracking system is available for participants to share their location with others, though it is not included in the entry fee. All GPS trackers must be returned after the event.
Important Notes
The event has a strict rule against breaking the seal on the emergency bag, which results in disqualification. Participants are responsible for reading the event FAQs, which contain information on start times, cut-offs, required kit, and safety. The event centre is located at Up & Running on Wimborne Road in Bournemouth. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
