UK Wife Carrying Race
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Event overview
The UK Wife Carrying Race is organised by Leith Hill Trail Runners and takes place in Dorking, Surrey, with Race HQ at The Priory School, West Bank, RH4 3DG. The event is open to entrants aged 18 and over on the race date. Entry fee is £39.00. The winning couple qualify for the World Wife Carrying Championships in Finland. Profits are donated to Mid Surrey Community Fridges.
Course and rules
The course is an out-and-back route of 380 m that includes a steady 15 m ascent of The Nower in Dorking. Obstacles and water hazards are included. The race is run with a single start and the first pair over the line is the winner. Carriers may be male or female and the person carried must be human, alive and at least 18 years old. There is a weigh-in before the race: anyone carried must weigh at least 50 kg or wear added weight in a rucksack. All those carried must wear a helmet. Recognised holds may be used, including bridal carry, piggy-back, shoulder-ride, fireman’s carry, the Estonian hold and the Dorking hold. Competitors are expected to wear fancy dress. Novelty prizes are awarded in several categories.
Included items and prizes
Entries include a personalised race number, a UK Wife Carrying Race mini love spoon and two bottles of local beer. Prizes include a barrel of local ale and commemorative medals for the winners, and awards for categories such as last-placed finishers, heaviest finishers, best fancy dress and oldest carrier. First-placed British finishers may receive a contribution toward expenses for the world championships, subject to providing a write-up and photos. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
