Centurion South Downs Way 50

South Downs Way 50

The South Downs Way 50 is a 50 mile (81 km) foot race along the South Downs Way National Trail from Worthing to Eastbourne. The route begins on local footpaths and bridleways, joins the South Downs Way near Chanctonbury Ring, and follows the SDW to Eastbourne, finishing with a lap of the athletics track. The course includes approximately 5700 ft (1750 m) of climb and is composed of about 85% trail and 15% road. Notable route detail: at Alfriston runners take the bridleway over Windover Hill to Jevington rather than the Seven Sisters footpath route.

The event provides seven aid stations along the course, full medical support, and visible course markings including National Trail acorn posts plus Centurion arrows and tape. Aid stations stock a range of nutrition and drinks, with hot drinks available at specific checkpoints and hot food at the finish included in the entry fee. There are cut offs at each aid station and a 13 hour overall time limit.

Entries open 26 April 2026 with 650 places on open registration and 50 Grand Slam tickets available for the 50 mile Grand Slam. The published entry fee is £118 (£120 for unaffiliated runners). Entrants must meet the qualification standard of a completed marathon within the stated period to apply.

Crew and pacers are not permitted on course; friends and family may join runners only for the final lap at the track. Mandatory kit is required and will be checked, examples include a charged mobile phone, minimum 1 litre water capacity, survival blanket, waterproof jacket, whistle, two light sources of at least 100 lumens, warm hat, gloves, a long sleeve top kept dry, and a cup. Finishers receive a finisher medal and prizes are awarded to top placings and vet categories. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.