Roly's Run

Swanmore, Southampton, UK

November 15, 2026 - November 15, 2026

8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Europe/London)

Event About

Date: 15 November 2026
Location: Meon Valley, Hampshire
Event Type: Trail Race / Ultra
Distances: 15 Miles, 20 Miles, 40 Miles

Roly's Run is a challenging multi-distance trail event through the beautiful Meon Valley and South Downs, taking runners across some of Hampshire's finest countryside. With three distances to choose from, it's suitable for runners looking to step up their trail distance as well as experienced ultra runners seeking a serious endurance challenge.

About the Event

The routes are primarily off-road, with around 80% trail, taking in local landmarks including Beacon Hill, Old Winchester Hill, Meonstoke and sections of the South Downs Way.

The terrain can be tough, particularly after wet weather, with loose stones, tree roots, muddy sections and slippery chalky descents. In the words of the organisers, "Abandon hope all ye for a PB!" — this is very much a trail adventure rather than a flat, fast race.

The event is held in memory of Rich Walklate (Roly), a much-loved friend and ultra-runner. Since the first event in 2019, surplus funds have been donated to charitable causes, particularly charities close to Rich and his family.

Distances & Start Times

15 Mile – 15.8 miles / 25.4km, 468m elevation
20 Mile – 22 miles / 35.3km, 677m elevation
40 Mile – 40.5 miles / 65.2km, 1,310m elevation

Event Schedule

40 Mile start: 8:00 AM
15 & 20 Mile starts: Flexible starts between 8:05 AM and 10:00 AM
Start & finish: New Road cricket field, Swanmore
Race HQ: Swanmore Village Hall, SO32 2PF

The Routes

All three distances share the initial 15-mile loop through Swanmore, Beacon Hill, Meonstoke and Droxford.

The 20-mile route continues to Winchester Hill before returning towards Meonstoke and the old railway line.

The 40-mile route takes things considerably further, continuing along the South Downs Way towards the Sustainability Centre before incorporating East Meon and Butser Hill before returning towards Winchester Hill and eventually Swanmore.

Included with Entry

Participants receive:

RFID chip timing
Marked trail routes
Multiple checkpoints
Water and snacks at checkpoints
Vegan and dairy-free food options
Marshals at key points
Hot food and drinks at the finish
Homemade cake
Mini-Boris rock memento instead of a traditional medal
Access to showers at Swanmore Leisure Centre

Important Information

15 Mile: minimum age 17
20 Mile: minimum age 18
40 Mile: minimum age 20
Walkers are welcome on the 15 and 20-mile routes
Dogs are not permitted to accompany competitors
The event is capped at 300 runners/walkers
No entries are available on the day
The 40-mile route has a 10-hour cut-off
Participants must visit every checkpoint on their chosen route.

Runners should be prepared for challenging trail conditions and are advised to familiarise themselves with the route and carry access to the GPX/map. The course is marked with arrows, tape, flags and flour, with marshals positioned at key locations.