Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon

Immerse yourself in the tranquil rural landscapes of Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Northamptonshire as you embark on either the challenging 50-mile ultra or the marathon distance along the Three Shires Way. This scenic route offers a blend of quiet countryside paths and ancient woodlands, making it an ideal choice for both newcomers to longer distances and experienced runners looking for a new challenge.
The race starts at Hanslope Village Hall in Milton Keynes for the ultra event, with participants heading off early morning from 08:00. The marathon route begins later at Yelden Village Hall near Wellingborough around 10:45 AM. Both races finish within Marlow Park by Grafham Water, providing a picturesque setting to cross the line.
Navigating through bridleways well-marked with wayfinding signs makes it easier for runners of all skill levels to stay on track. The race organizers will also provide additional guidance at sections where navigation might be tricky. With cut-off times set at 14 hours for the ultra and 8 hours for the marathon, participants have ample time to enjoy the stunning scenery while still adhering to strict deadlines.
Registration opens early in the morning with plenty of opportunities to get familiar with your surroundings before starting off on this epic journey through three counties. Both races are licensed by the TRA under UK Athletics rules, ensuring a safe and regulated environment for all competitors.
Participants will find professional medical support at both start and finish lines, complemented by volunteer aid stations along the route offering hydration and nutrition throughout their run. The race also encourages runners to carry essential items such as full-charged mobile phones, water bottles, survival blankets, waterproof jackets, whistles, and reflective gear for visibility.
Upon completion of either distance, all participants will receive a specially designed event medal celebrating their achievement. Top male and female finishers in both the ultra and marathon categories will also be awarded prizes to commemorate their outstanding performance.
To enhance your experience further, race tracking is provided by Open Tracking, allowing friends and family back home to follow along virtually as you make progress through this beautiful countryside. Free digital photos of every participant are available shortly after crossing the finish line, capturing memorable moments from throughout the event.
For those traveling from afar or needing assistance getting to the start lines, coaches will be operating from Marlow Park in Huntingdon on race day at specific times for both distances. Booking these transport options is possible when entering the race online, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to your starting point.
Join Race Harborough’s community of runners this year as they support local charities like the Jubilee Foodbank and Weston Favell Centre Foodbank through their efforts on course. Your participation not only challenges you physically but also contributes positively towards helping those in need within these communities.
Stay updated with any race day changes or additional information by following Race Harborough’s official Facebook page for real-time updates leading up to the event.