Battle of the Brampton Valley Way

Event overview

The Battle of the Brampton Valley Way is an out-and-back ultramarathon along the traffic-free Brampton Valley Way between Market Harborough and Northampton. Distances offered are:

• 14 miles (22.5 km) one way
• 28 miles (45 km) round trip

The course is described as very flat with total elevation gain of 280 m. Entrants choose which end to start from and there are 100 places available from each end. Entry fee is £32 and the minimum age is 18 on race day.

Route, surface and hazards

The route is a hard-packed track suitable for road or trail shoes, with occasional puddles and a small ford. Runners pass through two dark tunnels, one of 294 m and the other 422 m; tunnel surfaces include ruts and puddles. Feed stations are provided every 4.5 miles (four in total). Toilets are available at both ends and at the 14-mile turnaround.

Support, rules and logistics

There will be professional first aid at the start and finish and volunteers at road crossings; the crossing at the A508 is noted as busier than others. Timing mats at both ends provide a halfway split time. The race is cupless, so runners must bring their own cup or hydration vest. A head torch or small handheld torch is required for the tunnels. The event is not suitable for canicross and runners are requested to keep left at all times. The race cut-off time is 7 hours and entries and transfers close seven days before the event.

Prizes and community

Prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers and all finishers receive an event medal. Free digital race photos are provided after the event. The event supports the Jubilee Foodbank, Market Harborough, and the Weston Favell Centre Foodbank, Northampton. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.