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A Mega Challenge in Ramsgate!

The coastal path known as the Viking Coastal Trail runs around Thanet and a section runs along the seafront at Ramsgate which forms part of a popular route that we have here. For this event we're going to have a Mega Challenge! Now the Mega Challenge is going to be a Challenge Event with a difference! Basically the distance you run will detirmine the medal you receive... and there is a risk factor involved of possibly not receiving a medal!

The route is 4.37 miles and runs both along the top and bottom of the cliffs on gentle slopes, don't worry the cliff isn't too high! The upper and lower sections are joined by a little "grotto" which meanders through the cliff.

1 Lap - 4.37 miles - Concern that you're OK.
2 Laps - 8.75 miles - Encouragement to do the half marathon lap!
3 Laps - 13.1 miles - Half Marathon Mega Challenge Medal
4 Laps - 17.5 miles - Half Marathon Mega Challenge Medal + One more!!
5 Laps - 21.85 miles - Half Marathon Mega Challenge Medal + Oh come on!!!
6 Laps - 26.2 miles - Full Marathon Mega Challenge Medal
7 Laps - 30.6 miles - Ultra Mega Challenge Medal+ It's 800 yards to get the 50k medal!
7 Laps + a bit - 31.1 miles - 50k Mega Challenge Medal
8 Laps + - Ultra Mega Challenge Medal

All plus an SVN Goody Bag of course!

Having completed lots of marathons we believe we know what it takes to put on an enjoyable marathon for the fit, the dedicated and the hardcore long distance runners. And for those, like myself, who fit none of those categories, we'll do our best to get you round!

 

We put on events run exactly the way we wish they were all run. Low key, friendly and with most of the entry fee being spent on the runners. Please explore the races and consider joining us in Kent for a marathon or two.

This event forms part of a 10 Challenges in 10 Days Challenge, each event though is totally separate and you are free to just take part in one event, two events or however many you wish!

Course Information

The course is loops of 4.37 miles that runs along a stretch of the Viking Coastal Way around Ramsgate in Kent.

You can view the route on MapMyRun here

The total elevation gain is around 100' for each loop. Navigation is slighty convoluted as to get the distance we have an uneven loop and two out and backs. It looks more confusing on the map linked above as that doesn't really show of course that there is a tunnel to run through.

Base camp will be here along with the start and finish.


The Tunnel you'll run through and over on each lap.


You'll run past this sculpture each lap...

One of the turn arounds, there are no road crossings on the route so its fairly obvious where to turn around.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I get?
You will receive each day...
1) A really special finishers medal, custom made and designed, not a generic one.
2) A goody bag at the finish, which has goodies in, not a bunch of adverts. There will be nothing healthy in our goody bags, things they contain for example, chocolate, crisps.
3) A well stocked base camp with plenty of nibbles and refreshments for post race replenishment. Again there is nothing healthy here, no isotonic drinks or fruit. But cookies, crisps, nuts, pringles, M&Ms and those sorts of things!

Where do I park?
There is lots and lots of free street parking all the way along Royal Esplanade, you'll pass the cars nearest the sea on each lap so you can use your vehicle as a giant drop bag if you wish if you park wisely!
Google Map

When do I get my race number?
You'll pick this up on race day morning from the race base camp.

Are there time limits?
Yes, six hours to run as many laps as you can. You can finish at any time within the 6 hours and your final distance will be recorded along with your finishing time. Only complete laps within the 6 hours will be recorded or you must have left the aid station for your last lap by 5.59:59 after the event start, even if you finish after the event time threshold. Any runner completing 6 laps will have completed marathon distance and will count as a marathon finish for the purposes of the 100 Marathon Club, if you complete 7 or more laps then you've completed an ultra. As long as you finish one lap then you'll receive an official finish time, medal and goody bag. With timed events there are no DNFs as long as you complete one lap..

Do you have secure baggage facilities
No. But you're free to leave bags at the start/finish. There will always be someone around but we can't guarantee their security. You'll be able to park close to the start/finish don't forget.

Can I leave my own drinks/food at the aid station?
Yes no problem at all, we have a dedicated table for runners own supplies if they have anything special that they'd like to bring along..

Trail shoes? Road Shoes?
Road shoes should be fine. Its 99% on perfect surfaces, you might have a couple of pebbles to step around, maybe some sea weed, but otherwise all on sealed tarmac/concrete.

Is the course closed to the public?
No. We are using the Viking Coastal Path. Runners do not have the right of way and need to be considerate of other users of the land, especially near the start/finish area which is a popular area for people walking their dogs, so beware of animals and leads. Please don't litter. We'll have a bin at the base camp, please use this and there are several bins on the route too.

What on course facilities do you provide?
Water, squash, nibbles, starter, timekeeper and encouragement every lap! Base station will be well stocked for all runners. This is a typical example of the picnics, sorry aid station, we have...

Are there any toilet facilities at the start/finish area?
Yes a few yards from the start/finish/base camp area, highlighted in the image above.

Can I use an ipod or mp3 player on the course?
Yes. Though please be aware that you are running on public footpaths with the general public so make sure that you pay attention to traffic, people, children on bikes, wildlife and so on. Most of the route is alongside a cycle path so they won't be a huge hazard all being well but you need to be aware of them.

Public Transport?
Ramsgate has a main line train station and is about a mile or so from the Start/Finish area.

General SVN FAQ

Can be read here

 

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