Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon

Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon

The event offers two point-to-point distance races along the Three Shires Way through the rural landscapes and ancient woodlands of Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, finishing with a loop around Grafham Water.

Distances:

• 50 Mile Ultra
• Marathon

The 50 mile route links with the Swan’s Way, follows county boundaries at Threeshire Wood and includes an added section near Hanslope to reach fifty miles. The marathon route starts at Yelden and shares the finish area at Marlow Park, Grafham Water. GPX files for both routes are available for download.

Both races are licensed by the Trail Running Association and are held under UKA rules. Minimum ages are 20 for the 50 mile race and 18 for the marathon. Cut-off times are 14 hours for the 50 mile event and 8 hours for the marathon, with progressive checkpoint cut-offs. No pacers are permitted. Entries and transfers close seven days before the event.

On-course support includes professional first aid at the start and finish and volunteers providing hydration and nutrition at checkpoints. The event is cupless so runners must carry their own cup. Trail shoes are advised. Mandatory kit includes a charged mobile phone with race contact numbers, at least 1 litre of water capacity, a survival blanket and a whistle. Additional mandatory items apply for the 50 mile race, including a long-sleeved layer, reflective clothing, hat and gloves and a headtorch for low-light sections.

Transport options include coach transfers from the finish to the starts for a fee. Parking at the finish is available at a reduced price for runners. Prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each race and all finishers receive an event medal. Free digital race photos are provided after the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.