The Ridgeway Challenge
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The Ridgeway Challenge
The Ridgeway Challenge is an 86 mile (139 km) point to point trail running race held on 30 May 2026. The route follows the entire length of The Ridgeway National Trail from Ivinghoe Beacon in Hertfordshire to the Avebury Stones in Wiltshire. The published elevation gain is 6060 ft (1850 m+) and the overall time limit is 28 hours. The event is limited to 150 runners, has a minimum age of 20, and is licensed by the Trail Running Association under UKA rules. It is listed as a UTMB World Series index race.
Permanent National Trail signage covers most of the course and organisers add additional race markers where necessary. Open GPS tracking is provided for all runners. There are eight designated checkpoints along the route that provide food, drink and basic facilities; several checkpoints include hot food and hot water and some have toilet facilities.
- CP1 Wendover Church 10.9 miles / 17.6 km
- CP2 Whiteleaf 17.3 miles / 27.9 km
- CP3 Aston Rowant 25.5 miles / 41.1 km
- CP4 Nuffield 34 miles / 54.8 km
- CP5 South Stoke 41.7 miles / 67.1 km
- CP6 West Ilsley Village Hall 52.8 miles / 85 km
- CP7 Uffington 65.8 miles / 106 km
- CP8 Ogbourne St George 77 miles / 124 km
A runners guide PDF and a GPX file of the route are available. Mandatory kit requirements include a charged mobile with route access, at least 1 litre water capacity, survival blanket, primary and backup lights, waterproof jacket with hood, warm clothing, basic first aid, reusable cup and sufficient nutrition. Entry details and checkpoint cutoff information are provided in the event documentation. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
