The MTC Thames Challenge
Kemble, United Kingdom • 6-9 Aug 2026
The MTC Thames Challenge - event overview
The MTC Thames Challenge is a four-day multiday race following the Thames Path from the river source in the Cotswolds to the Thames Barrier in Greenwich. The listed total distance is 184 miles and the event is divided into four stages, each run as a separate ultra race. UTMB points allocated are 6 and the course record shown is 31:26:00.
- Day 1 - 57 miles: Source of the Thames to Travelodge Oxford
- Day 2 - 49 miles: Oxford to Wetherspoons, Henley-on-Thames
- Day 3 - 47 miles: Henley-on-Thames to Travelodge Kingston
- Day 4 - 33 miles: Concluding at the Thames Gate
Logistics, services and rules
Accommodation and evening meals are included at the ends of Days 1-3. Hotels named are Travelodge Oxford Abingdon Road, The Catherine Wheel (Wetherspoons) in Henley, and a Travelodge in Kingston. Rooms are normally shared three per room; private rooms are available at additional cost and subject to availability. Ultra Running Ltd will provide one cabin-sized kit bag transfer per competitor and will place named bags in hotel rooms.
Competitors must attend registration on Day 1 to collect race numbers and present kit for inspection. Navigation is primarily the competitor’s responsibility; downloadable maps and a GPX route are available. Mandatory kit includes a backpack, head torch with spare batteries, OS Map 150 (or downloadable maps), compass or GPS, whistle, mobile phone, emergency food and a basic first aid kit. The organisers require a minimum average speed of 4.0 miles per hour; competitors below this threshold may be withdrawn. Entry fees listed are Solo £595 and Relay Member £425. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.