The MTC Thames Challenge

Event details

The MTC Thames Challenge is a four-day multiday ultra running event held 6-9 August 2026, starting in the Cotswolds (Kemble Station area, GL7 6AW) and following the Thames Path to the Thames Barrier. The total route distance is 184 miles and the event carries 6 UTMB points. The course is divided into four stages, each a separate ultra race:

• 57 miles - The Cotswold Ultra (source of the Thames to Travelodge Oxford)
• 49 miles - The Oxford Ultra (Oxford to Henley-on-Thames)
• 47 miles - The Windsor Ultra (Henley-on-Thames to Travelodge Kingston)
• 33 miles - The Richmond Ultra (concluding at the Thames Gate)

Finishers receive a bespoke medal for each day and a bespoke t-shirt, mug, or hat per day. The four daily medals form a jigsaw of the scaled Thames Path route. First male and female finishers receive a bespoke Thames Challenge trophy.

Logistics, kit and rules

Accommodation and evening meals are provided at the ends of Days 1-3 (shared rooms, three per room standard). A support vehicle transfers one cabin-sized kit bag per competitor; bags must be clearly named and competitors are responsible for their belongings in transit.

Competitors must register on Day 1 and present kit for inspection. Entrants must be 20 years or over on the start day. Mandatory kit includes a backpack, head torch with spare batteries, Ordnance Survey Map 150 or downloadable maps, compass or GPS, whistle, mobile phone, two chocolate bars as emergency food, and a basic first aid kit. The majority of the route is not signed and navigation is the competitor’s responsibility. Competitors must maintain an average of at least 4.0 miles per hour or they will be withdrawn. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.