Chiltern Ridge Classic 50k

Chiltern Ridge Classic 50K

The Chiltern Ridge Classic 50K is an ultra marathon held on the Ridgeway National Trail in the Chiltern Hills. The course covers approximately 50 kilometres with about 996 m of ascent, starting at Berkhamsted Castle and finishing at Hampden Meadow in Wendover. The route passes through the Ashridge Estate, Ivinghoe Beacon, Coombe Hill and Whiteleaf Hill and includes ancient woodlands and rolling hills. The current route is slightly long at about 51 km due to HS2 road and footpath closures near Wendover.

The event is licensed by the Trail Running Association and held under UKA rules. It is an index race for the UTMB World Series, has a 9 hour overall time limit and a maximum field of 400 runners. Navigation is fully marked with orange arrows and ribbons, and marshals assist at road crossings. Runners must carry a digital GPX of the route on a watch or phone and a paper map is provided at registration.

There are three full checkpoints around 14 km, 30 km and 42 km. Checkpoints include water, cola, Precision Fuel and Hydration electrolyte drink, PF30 gels and chews, crisps, bars, flapjacks or biscuits, and fresh fruit such as banana, orange and watermelon. Toilets are provided at the start, finish and all three checkpoints. Required carried kit includes a mobile phone with an emergency number saved, GPX plus paper map, a light jacket or emergency blanket, a refillable water system of at least 0.5 L, a collapsible cup and cash or card. Entry is open to runners aged 20 or older with no qualifying standard. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.