Time to play the long game
Go Beyond Challenge is a brilliant race series, ideal for ultra novices
Have you ever thought: "I wonder if I could manage an ultra?"
Go Beyond Challenge Ultra Series 2022 may be just what you need to turn that thought into reality next year. The series is small but perfectly formed with four events between January and October at distances ranging from 35 miles to 54 miles:
- Country to Capital 43 miles – Saturday 8 January
- Rose of the Shires 54 miles – Saturday 9 April
- Shires and Spires 35 miles – Sunday 15 May
- Thames Trot 47 miles – Saturday 22 October
Competitors who complete all four events in the series will be rewarded with a bonus gift and a hoodie! Let's take a closer look at each event...
Country to Capital is a sell-out every year and just a few places are left before the 500-limit is reached and a waiting list for drop-outs will start. Race start is the Shoulder of Mutton pub in Wendover, Buckinghamshire and the multi-terrain course ends up following the Grand Union Canal to finish at the Waterside Cafe, Little Venice Canal – a surprisingly tranquil setting in the heart of London.
Rose of the Shires is held on a picturesque circular route through beautiful Northamptonshire countryside visiting two country parks, Salcey Forest, the Grand Union Canal, and parts of the Nene Way, Midshires Way, and the Northampton Round.
Shires and Spires will blend history and running based in the village of Naseby, famous for the battle in 1645. The 35-mile loop takes in some of the most interesting country houses and historical sites in England including Naseby, Holdenby, Althorp (home of the Spencer family), Cottesbrooke (the house Jane Austen used as the basis for Mansfield Park) as well as some stunning Northamptonshire countryside.
Thames Trot (image above) lives up to its name by following the Thames Path National Trail from Oxford to Henley with beautiful houses and traditional rowing clubs. The start point is Hawkwell House Hotel, Oxford and the finish is handy for Henley rail station.
Visit the Go Beyond Challenge Ultra Marathons page for more details and entries.
Image courtesy Adrian Howes Photography for Go Beyond Ultra