The Drop - Manchester
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The Drop Manchester
The Drop is a stripped-back navigation challenge run from Up & Running, 133 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3WR. Participants are taken to an undisclosed drop location and must find their own way back to the event centre on foot. There are no route markers, no maps provided unless the organisers choose to issue one, and no GPS or compass use is allowed during the challenge.
Participants choose from set distance options and follow the same rules and deployment method for each. During registration all electronic devices, watches, and navigational aids are handed in. Each participant receives a race number and a sealed emergency bag that must remain intact; breaking the seal leads to disqualification.
Deployment takes place by bus while participants wear blackout blindfolds or approved alternatives. When blindfolds are removed the clock starts and every navigation decision is the participant’s responsibility. Travel must be on foot only; no transport or shortcuts are permitted.
Live GPS tracking is used as a safety measure and to allow optional sharing of progress. Trackers should be placed for best signal and must be returned after the event; lost or unreturned units incur a £175 replacement fee. The organisers may check entries and restrict the 6 mile option to non-local participants to preserve fairness. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- 6 miles (non-locals only)
- 10 miles
- 15 miles