Runners v Riders

DEC
26
2026
An off-road Boxing Day race at Friday Woods where runners and cyclists compete over muddy multi-lap courses for the Markham Cup.
Sat 26 Dec 2026
4 miles

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Runners v Riders 2026

Runners v Riders is a traditional Boxing Day off-road race held on 26 December 2026 at Friday Woods, Bounstead Road, Colchester, Essex. The event pits runners against cyclists to compete for the Markham Cup; the first six finishers receive the cup.

The senior course uses a three-lap route covering approximately 3.5 miles. A junior race runs a shorter two-lap route of about 1 mile. The course runs across a military training ground and features very muddy, uneven terrain with ditches and water crossings. The race uses a mass start and collisions between runners and cyclists can occur; participants enter at their own risk and trail trainers are recommended.

Practical details include on-site number collection from a tent, limited parking at the venue with car sharing recommended, and on-site toilets. There is no bag drop. Photos and results will be posted to the organiser's Facebook page after the event. Total places for this edition were listed as 110 and entry for this edition is closed. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Events nearby

A 6 mile night trail in Hatfield Peverel with self navigation and a written route; head torch and mobile required and minimum age 16.
A 15k trail run at Trifarm near Boreham on 21 Nov 2026, over 95% off road on public footpaths and bridleways with on site parking and water points.
Trail event near Chelmsford on 29 Nov 2026 with two unsigned narrative routes of about 8.6 and 5.5 miles; proceeds support Centre Point Charity.
A new winter ultramarathon on 5 December 2026 covering about 80 miles across Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk, with checkpoints, mandatory safety kit and live tracking that includes an SOS function.
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