Saturn Running - Gilesgate

Event overview

The Smurf Run - North is scheduled for 15 February 2026 at Durham Amateur Rowing Club, Green Ln, Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3JU. The event is organised as a 7-hour Time Challenge, allowing participants to choose how many laps to complete within that time. A £17.00 entry price is available only to members; members are guaranteed entry and receive a mini-me medal pin at events they attend. Special race numbers can be provided for milestone events such as 50th, 100th or 250th races.

Course, distances and facilities

The course is a fully signed trail along a stretch of the River Wear with views of the Cathedral. The lap layout includes a 3 km turn point and a 5 km turn point to help comply with UK Athletics age restrictions. Concrete distances noted in the event information:

• Minimum distance: 3 km
• Full lap: 7 km (4.37 miles) or possibly 3.28 miles depending on course conditions
• Half marathon: 3 laps
• Marathon: 6 laps
• Ultra: 7 or more laps
• 50 km option available

All finishers who complete at least 3 km receive a themed medal. Distance pins are issued for half-marathon, mega-half, marathon, 50 km and ultra distances and are attached to the medal ribbon. Finishers receive a goody bag, with a vegan option available. An aid table and drinks table are provided at the start/finish of each lap with drinks and savoury and sweet snacks, including vegan options. Toilets and changing facilities are available. A bag drop is provided but is unstaffed and items are left at the participant's responsibility. Nearby free on-street parking or pay-and-display city parking is available. Headphones are allowed and the route uses public footpaths. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.