Welcome to the Dark Downs 50k and Half Mararthon. Two looped races on the South Downs starting at Dusk and running into the darkness..

There is something quite unique about running at night. The atmosphere, the camaraderie, the challenge, the novelty, and the cooler temperatures all make for a fantastic experience and these two races will hopefully provide all of this. The South Downs as always will bring rolling hills, runnable trails, and are also ideal for a race in the dark due to its untechnical terrain.

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Night running is something that a lot of ultras require nowadays, so not only is this a great race in itself, it is also a great opportunity to get out and get some night running experience in a race format. Great practice for any upcoming ultras and especially our Winter races later in the year.

The South Downs were awarded the Dark Sky Reserve Award in 2016 due to its exceptional starry nights, so there is no better place for a race like this to get some amazing views.

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The races will start at 6.15 and 6.30pm on Saturday, September 27th 2025, as the sun is setting, and runners/walkers will have 6 and 12 hours to complete it. There will be amazing aid stations as always with our fantastic volunteers, a fully marked course with very high visibility/reflective signage and Marshall's out at regular intervals.

The 50k race will also form a part of our new "50k" South Downs Triple Crown. Along with our other four 50k races, runners can choose any three to enter and attempt the Crown.

For lots more information visit our website UkUltra

Description supplied by the event organiser.