The Summer GMU
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Event format and course
The Summer Green Man Ultra is held on the Community Forest Path around the City of Bristol and is offered in two distances: 45 miles (full clockwise loop) and 30 miles (partial clockwise loop, starting at The White Horse, Hambrook, and finishing at Ashton Park School). The 45 mile course starts and finishes at Ashton Park School. Both distances use the same checkpoints and finish location; they differ only by start location and distance. The route is self-navigation; GPX files and a downloadable route booklet are provided. From 2026 the event will include individual competitor tracking.
Distance and elevation data for the main 45-mile route: Distance 45 miles, ascent 945 m, descent 945 m, UTMB points 3.
Services, rules and prizes
There are four checkpoints on the full route that provide water and basic food. The race is cup-free so competitors must carry a reusable cup. Checkpoint cut-offs are set to allow completion within a 12 hour period. Timelords run to target finishing durations (9, 10, 11 and 12 hours) and offer navigation and pacing guidance. Chip timing is used at the start and finish; manual computerized timing is used at intermediate checkpoints.
All finishers receive a bespoke GMU medal; a GMU T-shirt is available as an optional extra from 2026. Trophies are awarded to top finishers in men’s, ladies and veteran categories. Entrants must meet mandatory kit requirements, including a backpack, headtorch with spares, printed maps or GPS, compass, whistle, mobile phone, emergency food and a basic first aid kit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.