Sabre XXIII Weekend 9

WEEKEND 9

WEEKEND 9 is a running and walking event on Saturday 23 May 2026 in the Howgill Fells. The route follows the original 23 Special Air Service final test route known among recruits as Weekend 9.

The route is approximately 25.5 km long and covers about 1500 m of elevation. It is an out and back course that is fully waymarked so no navigation is required. A GPX file will be available. Terrain includes fell land, tracks and footpaths.

Checkpoints are placed along the route and will be staffed for safety checks only; they are not intended to provide food. Competitors are expected to be self sufficient. Cut off times apply and are described by the organiser.

There are three entry categories: load bearing, runner or clean fatigue, and walker or unloaded. Load bearing minimums are specified by age and sex: men under 50 carry 35 lb plus food and water, women under 50 carry 30 lb plus food and water, men over 50 carry 25 lb plus food and water, and women over 50 carry 20 lb plus food and water. Unloaded runner and walker categories must carry mandatory mountain safety kit which will be checked at registration. Minimum age is 18.

Safety provisions include a DS team, a mountain safety team and a mountain medical team. Prizes are awarded for first male and first female in each category. Finishers receive a patch and an end of race pint at the pub. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.