The South Hams Ultra

The South Hams Ultra

The South Hams Ultra is a multi-distance event that circumnavigates South Hams in Devon, following the South Hams Way for much of the route. The course traverses public rights of way, bridleways and coastal paths, crosses parts of Dartmoor National Park, passes through South Hams countryside and crosses five estuaries.

Distances and key cut offs:

• 100 miles - cutoff 35 hours, ascent 4890 m
• 44 miles - cutoff 14 hours, ascent 1947 m
• Marathon (26 miles) - cutoff 8 hours, ascent 1183 m

The full circuit is run anti-clockwise, starting at Mothecombe on the Flete Estate. The route crosses the Erme estuary, follows the South Hams Way to Bigbury, uses a tidal road to Aveton Gifford, crosses to Salcombe and East Portlemouth by ferry, follows the coast through Dartmouth, uses the Dart Valley Way to Totnes, passes via Dartington to Buckfastleigh, skirts the southern edge of Dartmoor, picks up the Erme Plym trail south of Ivybridge and returns to Mothecombe.

Start locations differ by distance: the 44 mile race starts at Old Town Mill, Totnes; the marathon starts at the Old School Community Centre, South Brent. The long route has eight checkpoints, the 44 mile route four, and the marathon three. The event provides GPS trackers, marshals, professional first aid, parking, bag drop, bespoke finisher medals and prizes. The ferry crossing is paid in advance; competitors show their race number to the captain.

Recommended kit includes a map or GPS device, water resistant clothing, minimum 500 ml water container, head torch with spare or spare batteries, suitable off road shoes, mobile phone and basic warm layers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.