South Coast Challenge

South Coast Ultra Challenge

The South Coast Ultra Challenge takes place on 5 to 6 September 2026 along the South Downs Way, starting in Eastbourne and finishing in Arundel. The route passes Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, runs to a Brighton halfway point, and continues past Devil’s Dyke toward Arundel for the full 100 km route. Elevation figures are provided for each distance.

Distances and approximate climbs:

• 100 km around 2170 m climb
• 57 km (first half) around 1250 m climb
• 43 km (second half) around 850 m climb
• 25 km around 690 m climb

Support and logistics are provided throughout the route. Rest stops are sited at roughly 12.5 km intervals with major stops near 25, 50, 75 and 100 km. Every meal and snack stop is included in the entry and hot drinks, water and energy drinks are available at all stops. Rest stop facilities include covered seating, toilets, medical areas, changing rooms and baggage pick up. Medical, podiatry and massage teams operate at stops and on the route. The course is fully signed using arrows and night glow sticks and GPS tracking is available through the event app. Timing scans log progress at rest stops.

Additional event formats include a continuous single day 100 km, a two day 100 km option with camping, an Ultra March category for walkers aiming at target paces, a Trailblazerz category for faster runners, and a Solo Challenger start option. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.