Rose of the Shires Ultra

Rose of the Shires Ultra and the Rosebud Marathon

The event comprises a 54 mile ultra and a 26.2 mile marathon that start and finish at Brixworth Country Park in Northamptonshire and follow a largely circular route through local countryside, villages and two country parks. The route passes Salcey Forest, the Grand Union Canal, and sections of the Nene Way, Midshires Way and Northampton Round.

Course surfaces are mixed; approximately three quarters of the ultra route is on cross-country trails with remaining miles on roads and canal towpath. The organiser provides waymarked sections but some navigation is required. GeoTracks real-time tracking and a voice cue navigation app are available.

For the full ultra there are six checkpoints, spaced about 6 to 8 miles apart, offering water, snacks and Go Beyond fruit cake. The ultra lists an elevation gain of about +706 m and loss of -706 m and uses progressive cut-offs with an overall cut-off of 13.5 hours. The Rosebud Marathon covers the final 26.2 miles of the ultra, includes two checkpoints and lists elevation gain of +378 m and loss of -399 m with an overall cut-off of 8 hours.

Relay teams can split the ultra into seven legs (8.7 / 7.1 / 7.4 / 6.8 / 7.7 / 8 / 8.4 miles) with several team size options. Parking is available at Brixworth Country Park (charges apply). Participants must be over 18. Baggage may be kept in vehicles or at the finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.