The MDC 2024 will take place on Saturday 4th May 2024.

Entries are now OPEN for both formats of the Marlborough Downs Challenge!!

Enter using the following links below
MDC 20 miles
MDC 33 miles


If you have any questions, please contact us at downschallenge@marlboroughrunningclub.org.uk
Race Information

The Marlborough Downs Challenge offers two events
33 mile* Trail Race 
20 mile* Trail Race 
* Note that distances are approximate only.

The MDC is a beautiful yet challenging event, mostly off-road along tracks and footpaths. There is plenty of climbing - over 3000 feet for the 33 mile race.  The routes take in some of the finest Wiltshire countryside including:
  • The Wansdyke Path, Tan Hill Way, White Horse Trail, and Mid Wilts Way with superb views across the Vale of PewseyWest Woods and.        
  • West Woods and Gopher Wood, with its amazing wild garlic.    
  • Two of the highest points in Wiltshire at Knapp Hill and at Tan Hill, where the long and short courses diverge
    and, on the 33 mile route,
  • The Kennet & Avon Canal into Devizes
  • Roundway Hill and Morgan's Hill
  • Cherhill Monument and White Horse
After the two routes rejoin to pass through Avebury, with its pre-historic stone circle and views of Silbury Hill, runners then go via Overton and Fyfield Downs back to Marlborough Leisure Centre for showers and refreshments.
 
White Horse Pottery hand throwns mugs for all finishers!

Navigation & Safety. All entrants will be sent a route description by email; copies will also be posted on this website. The Marlborough Downs Challenge courses are unmarked although there are some arrows for assistance at various points. Competitors are recommended to carry a map – the most appropriate is OS 1:25,000 Explorer Sheet 157 – and compass.

Suitable footwear must be worn or carried. This is a primarily an off-road event often remote from public roads. Mobile phones may not work in all locations. Parts of the route can be muddy. Remember, if the weather is wet and/or cold at the Start then it will be very wet and very cold on the Downs. If it is sunny then don't forget to apply sunscreen.

Age limits: 20 mile race, 18 years and over. 33 mile race, 20 years and over.

Races will comply with UK Athletics rules.

2024 Trail Running Association Permit number 6080

 

*YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY*


 
Race info MDC

information for entrants


GPX Files for download:

MDC 20
MDC 33

Turn-by-turn route desciptions:


MDC 20 Route
MDC 33 Route

 

MDC Results