Kent Down 50 Ultra Challenge

Event overview

The Kent Downs Ultra Challenge is a basecamp-style trail event near Maidstone in Kent with looped routes of 50 km, 25 km and 10 km. The main 50 km route is a loop around the Kent Downs that uses sections of the North Downs Way, passes Blue Bell Hill, Aylesford, the River Medway and Mote Park at the halfway point, follows the Len Valley Walk past Leeds Castle, and returns on the North Downs Way to the showground finish. The event includes camping at the Maidstone basecamp, parking, transfers and a bar on site.

Race details and support

Distances and approximate elevation:

• 50 km - ~1000 m elevation
• 25 km - ~450 m elevation
• 10 km - ~200 m elevation

Rest stops are located roughly every 12.5 km with major stops every 25 km. The 50 km course lists stops at 12 km, 25 km (picnic lunch), 42 km and 50 km, with snacks, hot drinks, water and a finishers meal at the 50 km stop. Rest stops provide covered seating, toilets, medical cover, changing areas and baggage pick-up. The event uses a signed route with pink arrows and GPS tracking via an app, and a timing system scans participants at rest stops. Additional on-course support includes medics, podiatrists and massage; finishers receive a medal, t-shirt and a glass of fizz. Options include a Solo Start, an Ultra March category for walkers, and a Trailblazerz competitive running category. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.