The Rosebud Marathon
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Event overview
The Rosebud Marathon is a 26.2-mile section of the Rose of the Shires Ultra Marathon through Northamptonshire. The event takes place on Saturday 11 April 2026, with registration and the finish hosted at Brixworth Country Park (Northampton Road, Brixworth, NN6 9DG). A bus transfer to the start is offered for a fee; parking is available at the country park. Entry fee is £46 and includes a GPS tracker. Competitors must be over 18.
Course and logistics
The route combines footpaths, country trails, roads and canal towpath and is waymarked but requires some navigation. Distances and terrain:
- 26.2 miles total
- 14 miles cross country trails
- 10.4 miles roads
- 1.8 miles canal tow path
Elevation is +1241 ft (+378 m) and -1308 ft (-399 m). There are two checkpoints at about 9.5 miles and 17.7 miles; each provides water, snacks and is staffed by local running clubs. The event is tracked using Geo Tracks GPS units; positions upload frequently and units have a battery life of about 70 hours. The cut-off for the race is 8 hours, with time limits at the two checkpoints. Mandatory equipment includes a fully charged mobile phone, power bank, at least 1 litre of water capacity, a survival blanket (minimum 1.4 m x 2 m), waterproof jacket, whistle, hat and gloves, and a long-sleeved base layer or fleece. Prizes are awarded to the first three male and female finishers; all finishers receive a medal and Go Beyond merchandise. Baggage can be stored at the finish and should not exceed UK carry-on size 56 x 45 x 25 cm. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.