The MTC Severn Challenge

The MTC Severn Challenge

The MTC Severn Challenge is a five day multiday ultra that follows the Severn Way route from the river source toward its mouth, covering around 220 miles including a short approach to the source. Total ascent is listed as 3,091 metres and total descent as 3,288 metres. Organiser records show a finisher rate of around 26 percent over the last seven years. The course mainly follows riverside paths but can be unpredictable and overgrown; use of GPX navigation is strongly recommended.

Daily races and awards:

• Stage 1 The Hafren, 26 miles
• Stage 2 The Severn Plod Ultra, 47 miles
• Stage 3 The Severn Path Ultra, 59 miles
• Stage 4 The Severn Way Ultra, 57 miles
• Stage 5 The Bristol Severn, 30 miles

Each day is a separate race with a bespoke finisher medal; completing all five awards five interlocking medals that form a route miniature and a large finisher trophy. Smaller trophies are presented to male and female champions of each day. Completing this event plus the Thames Challenge in the same year qualifies for the Severn and Thames buckle; as of 2024 no one has completed both in the same year.

Logistics include booked hotel accommodation at the end of days 1–4 (shared rooms by default), single rooms at additional cost, one cabin bag kit transfer per competitor, vegan and gluten free checkpoint food options, and a cup free policy requiring a reusable cup. Mandatory kit and a minimum average pace of 4.0 miles per hour apply; falling below that average will result in removal from the race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.