The Loop - South Devon
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The Loop (South Devon)
The Loop is a trail event in South Devon offering two multi-terrain distances with race headquarters and start/finish at Broadsands Beach in Torbay.
Distances:
- 20 Mile trail run or hike
- 8 Mile run or hike
The 20 Mile route begins at Broadsands Beach, goes inland via Churston, Galmpton and Greenway, passes through Long Wood and Hoodown Wood, crosses the steam railway to the River Dart and Kingswear, then follows the South West Coast Path along woodland cliff paths, coves, beaches and hills to Brixham Harbour before returning to the finish. The 8 Mile route follows the first four miles of the main route, splits after Greenway, goes through Churston to Churston Cove, then follows the South West Coast Path back to Broadsands.
Practical details include:
- Approximate ascent: about 4000 ft for the 20 Mile route; about 1100 ft for the 8 Mile route.
- Cutoff durations: 9 hours for the 20 Mile event and 3 hours for the 8 Mile event.
- Aid stations: three on the 20 Mile route and one on the 8 Mile route; supplies include water, coke, squash, flapjacks, crisps, nuts, pretzels, party rings and malt loaf.
- Navigation: South West Coast Path sections use SWCP acorn signs; marshals and extra signage are provided in parts of the route. Participants must carry a printed or device copy of the route map for navigation.
Other notes: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- The event is cupless; participants must carry their own cup, bottle or hydration system and the 20 Mile entrants must be able to carry at least 1 litre of fluid, full at the start.
- Finish items: bespoke medal and a sweet treat.
- Entry prices are listed per category: 20 Mile affiliated £35, 20 Mile unaffiliated and hikers £37, 8 Mile affiliated £28, 8 Mile unaffiliated and hikers £30.
- All participants must be over 18.
- Mandatory kit lists differ by distance and include items such as trail shoes, navigation map or uploaded route, mobile phone with the event emergency number (provided in event information), and waterproof jacket; the 20 Mile list also includes a foil blanket or extra dry layer, ability to carry 1 litre of fluid, race nutrition, and £20 cash or card for emergencies.
