Tarka Trail Railway Races

Tarka Trail Railway Races

The event takes place on the traffic free Tarka Trail, a shared use path that runs along the River Taw and River Torridge and through woodlands on an old railway line. The route is mainly tarmac with a generally flat profile and visible railway heritage such as signal boxes, stations, bridges and carriages. Two tunnels lie on the routes: a 76 m tunnel at Instow and the 180 m Landcross Tunnel with permanent lights.

Distances offered include:

• 1 km and 2 km Colourburst fun runs with optional obstacles
• 10 km on a certified, measured course
• Half marathon on a certified, measured course
• 25 km point to point course
• Marathon on a certified, measured course
• 50 km ultra on a certified, measured course

Courses are officially measured and UK Athletics affiliated for the main distances. The 10 km, half, marathon and 50 km are out-and-back return courses starting and finishing at Woolmer's Farm; the 25 km is point to point. Wave starts of about 100 runners are used. There are cutoffs to reach the marathon and 50 km turn points and the races are not open to pure walkers. Facilities include on-site parking (£2 per car), toilets, bag drop, on-site pitches for tents and campervans (£10 per night), and coaches to the 25 km start for a fee. Feed stations provide water, electrolyte and a range of snacks; finishers of 10 km and longer receive a two-sided 10 cm medal. Buggy runners are allowed; canicross is not suitable. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.