Three Forts Challenge

Worthing, United Kingdom • 3 May 2026

Three Forts Challenge

The Three Forts Challenge is a trail running event based at Lancing Manor Leisure Centre in Lancing, West Sussex. The next scheduled race date is 3 May 2026. Routes run across the South Downs and include rolling hills and coastal views over varied trail surfaces.

Runners can choose from multiple distances:

  • Marathon (full distance across the South Downs)
  • Half marathon
  • 3FC 5 mile trail run

Entry fees and age limits are published for each distance: the marathon and half marathon are open to entrants aged 18 and over, and the 5 mile run is open to entrants aged 16 and over. Published entry prices include £49 for the marathon, £39 for the half marathon and £20 for the 5 mile event; the 5 mile entry notes a photo and a medal.

The event is dog friendly on designated routes and routes are supported by marshals and aid stations with food and drink. Organisers note limited parking at the leisure centre and encourage travel by public transport or on foot where possible. Profits from the event support Ferring Country Centre and local Sussex charities. Reports from participants describe well placed aid stations, visible marshals and scenic viewpoints along the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

26 mi
Marathon 2026
13 mi
Half Marathon 2026
5 mi
3fc 5 Mile Trail Run 2026
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Single-loop winter trail races from Queen Elizabeth Country Park offering 50 miles (listed as 53 miles), 50K and 20 miles across the South Downs. The 50 mile event has about 6400 ft ascent and is a UTMB Index race worth 3 ITRA points.

UTMB Index

Trail running at Amberley Museum in West Sussex with three waymarked routes on the South Downs Way. Distances range from 6 km to 22 km, with on course outposts, a reusable cup policy and free parking.

Join Phoenix Running West Sussex for the Violets Are Blue Valentines Run at Southwater Park. Pick distances from 5 km to ultra, lap the flat compact trail at your own pace with rolling starts and claim a blue Love Spoon medal.

Single lap trail races in the Meon Valley from Queen Elizabeth Country Park offering 16 mile, marathon and 50km options with marked routes, aid stations and mandatory fluid carriage.