The Maverick South Downs Trail
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
The Maverick South Downs Trail 2026
The Maverick South Downs Trail takes place on Saturday 3 October 2026 at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, Horndean PO8 0QE. The event offers five off-road distances that start from the park and run into surrounding woodlands and ridgeways.
Distances:
- 50k Ultra: 51 km, +1294 m
- Marathon: 42 km, +1118 m
- Half Marathon: 21 km, +479 m
- Middle: 9 km, +205 m
- Short: 6 km, +129 m
Routes use trails on the South Downs Way and include chalky tracks, woodland paths and farm trails. The Marathon and Ultra routes include an extended 15 km stretch on undulating chalk trails. The 50k Ultra passes through Harting Downs and West Dean Woods. Several short, steep climbs appear on all longer routes.
Support and facilities vary by route. The Short and Middle routes have no outposts. The Half Marathon has two outposts at about 5.5 km and 13.5 km. The Marathon has three outposts and the Ultra four outposts, offering sweet and savoury snacks, gels and electrolyte drinks. There are no route toilets for the Short, Middle or Half Marathon; toilets are available at specified Marathon and Ultra outposts.
Event features include free parking, a fully marked and timed course, online results, event photography, food and drink, a bag drop and a metal finisher medal. Dog entries have sold out. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult.
The Marathon and 50k Ultra require mandatory kit including a waterproof jacket, mobile phone, at least 800 calories, minimum 1 litre water, self-adhesive bandage, whistle, foil blanket, hat or buff, reusable cup and a GPX of the route. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
