FAQ

​

How tough is the challenge?

This event is very flat compared to our other events. It has less than 300 ft!  You need to average around 3.4 mph to finish in 12 hours.  Seriously, that’s a fast walk. If it takes you more than 10 hours we’ll fall off our seats.

​

What is included in the entry price?

• Coach travel to the start

• Tea/Coffee after the event

• A meal after the event

• Finishers certificate

• Staff and first aid medical support

• Snacks and cold drinks at CPs

• Participation in a fun as well as tough event!

• Electronic Chip Timing – RaceTimer Pro

• Paramedic Medical 

​

How good do my navigation skills need to be?

The entire route is a national trail. The first 12 miles follows a single old train line, then in Stafford you follow the River Sow, River Trent, River Sawburn  and then the Trent Canal.  80% of the navigation is easy. We have purchased and replaced some missing waymarks. We will also provide an electronic copy of a participant guide including an updated route description to help keep you right on track. We have a very comprehence blow-by-blow written route description too.

​

Kit list: what do I need to carry with me on the run?

Recommended:

• Maps for whole route. Compass not essential, but useful

• a mobile phone

• waterproof jacket, and clothing suitable

• space blanket, first aid kit & whistle

• drinks bottle / mug / camelback

• some food for the course to supplement checkpoint food.

• any personal medication

​​

Can I leave a bag at the start  finish

Yes, you can leave your belongings at the race HQ Shobnall Spport Complex in Burton-on-Trent;  but don’t leave anything valuable in the bag.  We can’t be responsible for any loss.  It might be useful to label your bag with your name and race number so that we can find it if there is an emergency.

​

Can I use a GPS?

Yes, you can use a GPS if you wish, the route will be shortly available to download from the Routes page of the website.  You can also opt to hire a Racedrone GPS tracker to use on the event.  The trackers are the kind used for  D of E Tracking as well as Scout GPS Tracking, and general GPS Events Tracking.

​

Do I have to stick to the race route. What about short-cutting?

You must follow the race route. There are several virtual checkpoints on the course to stop short cutters, you little monkeys.

​

What is the start/cut off time?

At 7am the coach leaves from Burton on Trent.  8am start from Newport. 12 hour time limit, which means you must finish by 8pm.

​

What happens if I don’t finish in time?

You must have fallen asleep on the course because 12 hours is plenty!  If you don’t finish in time, the venue will be closed and you won’t be able to get a shower or any hot food.  We will have an late arrivals finish setup outside the venue, so there will be someone there to greet you.

​

How will I find my results?

Results will be published online.

​

Are there showers?

Yes, and toilets at the HQ/finish. There are no toilets at the start, so use the loo before you board the coach.

​

Will I need to take my own food & drink?

The checkpoints will stock a variety cold drinks, some snacks; such as biscuits, sweets and crisps.  However, it is recommended that you carry some of your own food that you would normally eat on a run.  You should carry a water bottle and this can be refilled at the checkpoints.

​

How far apart are the checkpoints?

There are 3 checkpoints, they are roughly every 10 miles.

​

What is the terrain like?

95% trail, very little road.  100m ascent and a little more descent.  Yes, that’s right. Overall it’s kinda downhill! The reality is that other than a couple of minor bumps this course is flat as a pancake. Check out the hill profile below.

 

What happens if I can’t finish the race?

If you cannot finish the race, you should retire at a checkpoint.  You will be taken back to the race HQ when we can arrange transport for you or when the CP closes.  If you have to retire elsewhere and make your own way off the course you must use your phone to call the race organisers and notify them of your intentions.  Failure to do this could result in  rescue services being notified unnecessarily.

​

Can I reccie the course in advance?

Of course.  Run along it as many times as you like!

​

What about travel to the start /finish ?

You park near the finish, and we take you by coach to the start.  You don’t have to use the coach, and can arrange to meet us and register at the start if you wish. If you do that, you’ll need to arrange your own transport back home of course!

​

Do we get a meal at the end?

Nothing fancy, but you’ll get a little food to replenish the carb tanks. We’ll rustle up a hot drink for you too I’m sure.

​

Are places limited?

Yes.  We are limited by coach seats.  It always sells out, and it sells out fast.

​

What will the weather be like?

Cool, Cold, ok, possibly rain, who knows?  Check the forecast before you come and dress wisely!

​

I have more questions?

Ask us on the Beyond Marathon Community Facebook Page

​

What Else?

We always try to awareness of Malignant Melanoma, which is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, caused primarily by sun damage.  It is the most common form of cancer in people aged 15-34.  Each year, approximately 2,000 people die in England and Wales due to melanoma and more than 10,400 people are diagnosed with it.  You are not going to need any sunblock for this event, but please use it when you’re out running in the day time.  Runners spend a lot of time outdoors, and don’t always slap on the sunblock.  If you’re worried about a mole, please get it checked at your doctor as soon as you can, as malignant melanoma is very aggressive, and early diagnosis is vital.

​

If you’d like to help further, by running the event sponsored, then great, we’d love that!  You can get a sponsorship form from us.