Centurion South Downs Way 50

Centurion South Downs Way 50

The South Downs Way 50 is a 50 mile (approximately 81 km) foot race along the South Downs Way National Trail, running from Worthing to Eastbourne. The route begins on about six miles of chalk footpaths and bridleways, climbs to join the South Downs Way at Chanctonbury Ring, and follows the SDW to Eastbourne with a final lap of the athletics track at Eastbourne Sports Club. The course includes 5,700 feet of climb and is roughly 15% road and 85% trail.

The event is the 15th running and is the first of four races in the 2027 50 Mile Grand Slam. There are 650 places available on open registration and an entry fee of £118 (£120 for unaffiliated runners). Entrants must have completed at least a marathon within that event’s cut off between 1 January 2022 and race day to meet the qualification standard. The overall time limit for the race is 13 hours, with additional cut offs at aid stations.

The course is marked with South Downs Way marker posts, red and white tape, and Centurion arrows. There are seven staffed aid stations carrying a broad range of supplies including gels, electrolyte drinks, water, fizzy drinks, snacks, sandwiches and vegan and gluten free options; hot drinks are provided at some checkpoints and hot food is available at the finish. Medical cover is provided with static teams, rapid response vehicles and race ambulances, though some remote sections may delay response time.

Crew and pacers are not permitted on course. Mandatory kit includes a charged mobile phone, at least 1 litre water capacity, survival blanket, waterproof jacket, whistle, primary and backup lights (minimum 100 lumens each), warm hat, gloves, long sleeved base layer kept dry, and a cup. A one hour time penalty may be applied for missing mandatory items. Awards include a finisher medal and prizes for top placing men, women and veteran categories. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.