Saturn Running - Gilesgate

Event overview

The Dun Holm Challenge 2026 is a 7-hour time challenge held at Durham Amateur Rowing Club, Green Ln, Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3JU. Participants choose how far to run within the 7-hour limit. Entry can be for all five days at once or for individual days. Those who enter all five days receive a commemorative t-shirt in sizes XS to XXL; t-shirts are ordered after distances are confirmed and are available about six weeks after the event. Entry pricing: Early Bird £110 (affiliated) / £120 (unattached) until 30 June 2025; Normal £125 (affiliated) / £135 (unattached); Members price £105 (membership required). The next scheduled race date is 21/05/2026.

Course, distances and logistics

The course runs along the River Wear, is classified as a trail run, and is fully signed. Walkers are permitted. UK Athletics age restrictions apply to some distances.

Distances

• 3 km minimum (part of a lap)
• 7 km full lap (4.37 miles) - may change to 3.28 miles loop
• Half marathon = 3 laps
• Marathon = 6 laps
• Ultra = 7 or more laps
• 50 km distance available

Medals are awarded to all finishers completing at least 3 km. Pins are given for half-marathon, mega-half, marathon, 50 km and ultra distances. Race facilities include toilets, changing, a bag drop (unstaffed), an aid table with drinks and snacks including vegan options, and goody bags with a vegan choice if requested. Nearby parking options include free on-street and pay-and-display city centre parking; the train station is about a 20- to 30-minute walk. Headphones are allowed only if bone-conducting. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.