Centurion South Downs Way 50km

Winchester, United Kingdom • 13 Jun 2026

Event overview

The South Downs Way 50km is a 50 km non-stop foot race held on 13 June 2026. The event is part of the World Trail Majors - Short Series and is the second annual running of the race. The field size is listed as 400 starters. The minimum age is 20 years. Entry fees are shown as £80 (UKA discounted) or £82 for unaffiliated entrants. Entries open 12 July 2025 and close 5 June 2026.

Course, support and rules

The route runs entirely within the South Downs National Park, mainly on the South Downs Way National Trail, starting at Matterley Bowl and finishing in the Event Field at Queen Elizabeth Country Park after a descent from Butser Hill. The course distance is 50 km (about 31 miles) with approximately 4,000 ft (1,200 m) of climb. Terrain is about 80% trail and 20% road. Runners must finish within a 9-hour time limit; there are additional cut offs at aid stations.

There are four staffed aid stations offering a range of food and drink including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Full medical support and a fully marked course are provided. Pacers and crew are not permitted. Mandatory kit rules apply, with kit checks and a one-hour time penalty for missing items; required items include a charged mobile phone, minimum 1 litre water capacity, survival blanket, waterproof jacket and a personal cup. A route map and downloadable GPX file are available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

50 km
South Downs Way 50km
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Join the Winchester Trail Run at Sparsholt College for scenic 12 km and 21 km off road routes through rolling Farley Mount countryside. Enjoy tree lined tracks, a short climb to Farley Mount on the 21 km and a finisher medal.

Kings Garn Gutter orienteering in the New Forest on Sunday 11 January offers runnable forest, streams and updated 1:10,000 maps. Courses range from short novice path events to long technical routes so all abilities can join.

Enjoy gravel trails through ancient woodland in the New Forest at Maverick New Forest Gravel on 17 January 2026. Choose from 22 km, 12 km or 6 km routes with scenic forests, wildlife and a friendly festival vibe.

Run the South Downs Way from Heyshott to Arundel in a scenic point to point trail event on 18 January 2026. Choose a marathon or 15 mile off road route that finishes by Arundel Castle with river views and rolling downs.