The Martian Race

The Martian Race

The Martian Race is a community sports event organized entirely by volunteers, with proceeds benefiting local charities selected by the Woking Lions. The event takes place on Horsell Common in Surrey, a location notable as the setting for the Martian landing in H.G. Wells' novel The War of the Worlds. Participants run through a varied landscape that includes historic sandpits, woodlands, meadows, and wetlands.

The venue is privately owned common land with public access, nearly half of which is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The organizers aim to minimize environmental impact by selecting routes that respect local wildlife, maintaining a litter-free environment, and eliminating single-use plastics.

The following distances are available:

• 21 km route
• 10 km route
• 5 km route
• 2 km Mini Martian race for children

The event features a race village with facilities such as bag drop, number collection, and refreshments including coffee and ice cream. Parking is provided nearby at the McLaren Centre. Participants navigate an off-road course consisting of trails, boardwalks, and some sections with tree roots. The routes are signposted and supported by marshals at various junctions.

Registration is open to the public, and the event aims to provide a friendly, community-focused experience for participants of different interests. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.