Sundowner Marathon

Purleigh, United Kingdom • 6 Jun 2026

Event overview

The Sundowner Trail Marathon is scheduled for 6 June 2026. The event takes place in the early evening and follows a trail course that combines coastal saltmarsh, canal towpaths, vineyards and forests. The advertised distance is 27 miles with approximately 2,500 ft of elevation gain. Field size is limited to 50 runners.

Course and logistics

The route consists of two different loops that return to the start/finish at the halfway point, which also serves as checkpoint two and a drop-bag access point. There will be three checkpoints spread across the route. Checkpoints will be well stocked and will include vegan options; participants with additional dietary requirements are asked to note these on their entry. The race is cupless. No crewing or pacing is allowed. Runners are expected to respect other footpath users and to carry any rubbish with them.

Mandatory kit and timing

Mandatory kit includes the mobile phone listed on the entry, a head torch (minimum 250 lumens) and a backup, non-phone light source. A drop-bag option is available at roughly 15 miles at HQ. The race cutoff allows runners 6.5 hours to complete the course.

Prizes and special features

There is a £100 prize for a new course record. Open category winners receive bespoke locally made trophies and £50; runners up receive £25 and third place receives £15. A marked Strava segment of roughly 1 km on course carries a separate prize for the fastest male and female, with specific eligibility rules. Finishers receive a memento and a bespoke locally made beer (vegan, gluten free, 0.5%). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

27 mi
27 Miles
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Five Gold Rings is a self guided trail run at The Chequers, Felsted on 29 December 2025, with half marathon, 7 mile and 5 km distances. Enjoy countryside routes at your own pace and a pub voucher included with entry.

Essex XC Championships at Gloucester Park Basildon on 3 Jan 2026 features challenging multi lap cross country races from U11s to a 12 km senior men race. Entries close 21 Dec and entry is open to England Athletics members eligible for Essex..

Join the East Hanningfield Trail Marathon on 4 January 2026 for a scenic circular 95% off road route around Danbury, starting and finishing at the village hall. Expect varied terrain, friendly support and three well stocked checkpoints.

Tackle the scenic but testing Benfleet 15, a 15 mile trail taking in Hadleigh Downs, the Canvey sea wall and parts of the 2012 Olympic mountain bike course. Join the fun at Hadleigh Country Park on 18 January 2026 for a muddy, memorable cha..