The Marlow Donkey
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About the race
The Marlow Donkey is a Thames Valley LDWA challenge event held on Sunday 4 October 2026 in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. Entrants choose one of three route options and must complete their chosen route within the published maximum time.
- 15.6 miles (25 km) : maximum time 8 hours
- 25 miles (40 km) : maximum time 11 hours
- 31.3 miles (50 km) : maximum time 11 hours
Entries are limited to 150 places on a first come first served basis. Entry opens to LDWA members earlier than to others and closes on Sunday 20 September 2026 or when the limit is reached. Online entry and payment are handled via SiEntries. The entry fee includes drinks and snacks at the start and an outward checkpoint, a simple meal at the finish, and transport for retirees. Timed certificates are available on request for those who finish within the time limits.
The event HQ is Liston Hall, Marlow. Muddy footwear is not permitted inside the hall, there are no changing rooms or showers, and baggage may be left at the entrant's risk for the duration of the event. Marlow railway station is about a ten minute walk from the HQ.
Participants must carry a mobile phone and provide an emergency contact number different from their own. A paper copy of the route description must be carried. Mandatory kit includes a personal drinking container, a plastic mug, whistle, basic first aid, suitable footwear, waterproofs, compass and specified maps or electronic GPS copies. Entrants must complete the route on foot, pass checkpoints in order, get times recorded at each checkpoint and comply with marshal instructions and the Countryside Code. Registered assistance dogs are permitted by prior arrangement only. Personal data will be retained for event management and safety purposes and photographs may be used in LDWA publications and media. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
