The Drop - Manchester

The Drop - Manchester

The Drop - Manchester is a stripped-back navigation challenge based at Up & Running - Unit 4, Barton Arcade, Manchester M3 2BH. Participants are taken to an undisclosed location and must find their way back to the event centre without route markers or directions.

Participants are blindfolded for deployment, driven to the unknown drop location, and start when blindfolds are removed. Distances are stated as the crow flies; the route actually taken will be significantly longer.

• 15 miles original and longest option.
• 10 miles shorter version with the same rules.
• 6 miles available only to non-locals to avoid local advantage.

At registration participants hand over electronic devices, watches, and navigational aids. They receive a race number and a sealed emergency bag that must remain intact; breaking the seal results in disqualification. Rules include no GPS unless the device is sealed inside the emergency bag, no unauthorised maps, and travel on foot only. Blindfolds may be replaced with blackout safety goggles if required.

A live GPS tracking system is used for safety; access is password-protected and login details are issued before the event. Trackers must be returned after the event or a replacement fee of £175 applies. The event is open only to entrants aged 18 and over on the event date. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.