Ivybridge 3 Tops

Ivybridge 3 Tops – Saturday, August 15th, 2026
Organized by Erme Valley Harriers as part of the Dartmoor Fell Series, this thrilling fifth edition promises an evening filled with challenging terrain and breathtaking views. The race starts at either 17:30 for seniors (including U20) or 16:30 for juniors (U10, U12/U14 & U16/U18), offering a unique opportunity to experience Dartmoor's rugged beauty under the summer evening sky.
The course is approximately 10 kilometers with around 450 meters of elevation gain. Expect stunning vistas over the South Hams as you navigate through Harford and Ugborough Moors, where part of your entry fee will contribute directly towards erosion management efforts.
Participants should park at the railway station near Ivybridge and walk to Race HQ at the rugby club for registration. A short warm-up walk (1 kilometer) leads runners to the start point on the moor's edge. The race starts promptly from here, with juniors completing their circuits back at this location while seniors return to the finish line at the Rugby Club.
The senior route is a challenging yet rewarding journey deep into the heart of Dartmoor. It begins with an ascent up Western Beacon and continues across open moorland before looping down towards Weatherdon. A mix of quick tracks, tussocky scrambles around Glasscombe Ball, and fast descents to Scada Brook await runners. The route includes a sharp climb up Ugborough Beacon followed by another stream crossing at Lud Brook, leading back to Western Beacon for the final descent.
Junior races offer an introduction to fell running with shorter distances that still pack plenty of challenge:
- U10: Approximately 1.5 kilometers, following part way up Western Beacon and returning.
- U12/U14: About 2.75 kilometers, continuing all the way to the top before descending back down.
- U16/U18: A more demanding route of around 5.5 kilometers in total (two laps), climbing and descending the Western Beacon.
For senior runners, a cut-off at Scada Brook after approximately three miles ensures safety by requiring participants who miss this time limit to be transported back to Race HQ for their own protection as daylight fades.
Competitors can look forward to prizes awarded to top finishers in various categories: overall male & female winners and separate awards for U20, V40, V50, V60, and V70 age groups. Additionally, there are team trophies up for grabs based on the performance of clubs with three males or females.
Registration is £9 (£8.50 for Fell Running Association members), with an additional fee of £1 if registering on race day (if space permits). The event adheres to Fell Runners Association rules and classifications.
Participants should come prepared, as no water will be provided along the course, and consider carrying a whistle, raincoat, and hat in case of adverse weather conditions.
Post-race refreshments are available at the Rugby Club bar, with food also on offer from their kitchen for those needing sustenance after an invigorating run.
Join Erme Valley Harriers for this unforgettable Dartmoor experience that offers both scenic beauty and competitive excitement!