The MTC Thames Challenge

The MTC Thames Challenge (6–9 August 2026), Kemble Station, GL7 6AW

The MTC Thames Challenge is a four-day, multi-stage endurance race along the Thames Path covering 184 miles from the river source toward the Thames Barrier. The event comprises four named stages that also act as separate races. The event carries 6 UTMB points and lists a course record of 31:26:00. Entrants must be at least 20 years old on the start day.

• Day 1 Cotswold Ultra - 57 miles (Source of the Thames to Travelodge Oxford)
• Day 2 Oxford Ultra - 49 miles (Oxford to Henley-on-Thames)
• Day 3 Windsor Ultra - 47 miles (Henley-on-Thames to Travelodge Kingston)
• Day 4 Richmond Ultra - 33 miles (finishes at Thames Gate)

Logistics, kit and rules

Hotel accommodation and evening food are included for the ends of Days 1 to 3. Assigned hotels are Travelodge Oxford Abingdon Road, The Catherine Wheel (Wetherspoons) in Henley, and a Travelodge Kingston hotel. Rooms are shared, typically three per room; private rooms may be available at additional cost. The organiser pays for the main evening meal only; competitors pay for starters, drinks and desserts. Breakfast provision includes a porridge pot, juice, banana and yoghurt; competitors should bring their own spoon.

Competitors must be self-sufficient and carry mandatory kit: backpack, head torch with spare batteries, OS map or organiser map, compass or GPS, whistle, mobile phone, emergency food and a basic first aid kit. One cabin-sized kit bag per competitor is transferred by the support vehicle; competitors remain responsible for their belongings. Checkpoints must be visited and recorded. The minimum required average speed is 4.0 miles per hour; falling below this may lead to removal from the race. Entry fees: solo £595, relay member £425; a deferral option is available for a fee. Entry fees are non-refundable under normal circumstances. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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