This page is designed to help people who want to cheer/ support their runner on course. Before we come to the options for good locations from which to spectate, we need to be clear on three items. We make no apologies for being explicit in these directions, you directly threaten the future of this event if you disobey these rules, hence the pretty severe terms!
Rest assured that we will thoroughly take care of your runner during their race. There are 4 check points manned by volunteers with extensive supplies at each. The course is fully marked. Part of this sport is about self sufficiency on the trail and runners should be aware that they are responsible for themselves out on the trail. But they will be fully catered for as much as is possible in a 50km trail race.
Obviously the main locations for the race are Matterley Bowl and then the Finish at QECP. You can see you runner off at the start, see them again at the roughly 10km mark still within the estate, (but not to crew them/ hand them supplies, just to support them!). Then again at the finish.
With the exception of Holden Farm (see below) - Supporters are not allowed at the check point locations, full stop. Not by foot, by bicycle and most definitely not by vehicle. Many of the check points at this event are the size of a handful of parking spaces, which are used for the volunteers cars and the check point itself. Our permissions from landlords and the Trail managers, exist because we guarantee a specific number of cars and people attending each site. Please do not threaten the future of the race by breaking this rule. Your runner risks DQ if you visit any official check point. Please be sure that not at a check point, does not mean 10 metres away. Please be sensible. Please do not park at a check point and then walk down the trail. It is the parking at the check point that is the primary issue.
Crewing is not allowed anywhere. Your runner will be disqualified if you provide them any outside assistance. Crewing refers to handing them food, drinks or any kind of physical assistance. Words of encouragement are great! Do not run alongisde your runner even 'just for a few minutes'. That is pacing.
Holden Farm Support Point:
Holden Farm (SO24 0NX) is a 7 minute drive from Matterley Bowl and enroute to the finish line at Queen Elizabeth Country Park. The perfect location to support your runner at mile 9 of the race. It is however a small farm with a cafe and camping. Parking is limited and access is on a small track. It isn't designed for 300 cars to arrive at once! The vehicular entrance is on the actual South Downs Way and as such runners in the race, and the general public, will be using it. If you plan to stop here to see your runner you must do so with caution and respect for everyone else in the area. Once your runner has gone through they will have over 20 miles to run and you will have a car journey or less than 30 minutes - take your time and enjoy a coffee and cake - it's been tested and is good! It may be that you have to wait for a break in the runners to exit the car park. The runners take priority. Follow signage on the day as to where to park
