Robin Challenge

Robin Challenge

The Robin Challenge is a six hour trail event held at Sence Valley Forestry Park in Ibstock, Leicestershire (postcode LE67 6NW). The course uses a single 3.3-mile off-road loop that passes pools, young trees and a central pine forest. The lap begins with a long downhill, rises out of the park on a series of climbs and finishes by returning up the hill that opened the lap.

Participants decide how many laps to complete within the time limit. A marathon distance requires eight laps and a half marathon requires four laps; completing nine laps or more is classed as an ultramarathon. A GPX file of the route is available and the course may be marked on race day.

Underfoot surfaces are mainly crushed stone paths of varying condition and some grass sections that may be slippery or muddy when wet, so trail footwear is recommended. Sence Valley is a Forestry England site with a café and toilets. Parking is charged and the stated cost range is between £2.20 and £4.50. The site is about 11 minutes from Ashby-De-La-Zouch, 12 minutes from junction 22 of the M1, and the closest train station is Loughborough.

Canicross is allowed; leads should be kept short and canicross entrants start with the main field. Rucking is permitted. Entrants can choose between a medal or a Big Bear Tree Token, with a tree planted for each token issued. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.