Ride. Hike. Kayak. Beat the sunset. Your team guide to Race the Sun.
Ride. Hike. Kayak. Beat the sunset. Race the Sun is the famous triathlon‑style team challenge where teams of two or four complete three disciplines between sunrise and sunset to support Action Medical Research. Expect iconic UK landscapes, fully supported routes and a finish‑line glow that lasts for months.
How it works in a nutshell: your team cycles, hikes and paddles together through a set course, chasing checkpoints and daylight. The goal is simple - finish before the sun sets.
What is Race the Sun?
Race the Sun is built for teams—friends, couples, colleagues—who want a big day out with a big purpose. Every mile you cover helps fund vital research for sick and vulnerable babies and children. The series runs across the country and throughout the year, so you can choose a location and date that suits your team.
Team format: 2 or 4 people
Disciplines: bike + hike + paddle (kayak/canoe provided)
Timing: dawn to dusk - beat the sunset (usually takes 7-9 hours)
How the day works
Sunrise start → Bike → Hike → Kayak → Final push → Finish before sunset.
Routes vary by location, but every event broadly follows this pattern, and has clear signage, transition points and full support.
What’s included: online safety briefing, marshals and medics, bike mechanics, first-aiders, timing tracker/GPX, kayaks, paddles and buoyancy aids, feed stations, and a celebratory meal at the finish.
You focus on moving; the crew handles the rest.
I have entered a lot of events in my time and this was by far the best experience I have ever had. It really felt like an adventure and not just going through motions. I would recommend to anyone. James P
Where can you race?
Distances and terrain differ by venue. Here are examples from 2026 listings:
- South Downs (East Sussex) - road cycling with coastal drama around the Seven Sisters. Approx. 31 miles ride, 10 miles hike, 2 miles kayak.
- Jurassic Coast Off‑Road (Dorset) - off‑road riding, chalk cliffs and sea views from Swanage. Approx. 21 miles MTB, 10 miles hike, 2 miles kayak.
- Cheddar Gorge (Somerset) - classic ascent of the gorge by bike plus limestone scenery on foot. Approx. 32 miles ride, 9 miles hike, 2 miles kayak.
- Keswick (Lake District) - road cycling with big fells on the skyline and a long hike. Approx. 34 miles ride, 10.5 miles hike, 2 miles kayak.
- Coniston Off‑Road (Lake District) - mountain biking, paddle on Coniston Water and a punchy hike on the Old Man of Coniston. Approx. 23 miles MTB, 2.5 miles hike (+ ~803 m ascent), 2 miles kayak.
Distances and routes are subject to change.
Can our team do it?
Yes - with preparation. Race the Sun is achievable for people with reasonable fitness who are willing to train. Navigation is straightforward, support is comprehensive, and you’ll be guided on the water by qualified instructors where needed. Remember - no previous experience of kayaking is required; you'll receive full instruction on the day.
Who it suits: mixed‑ability teams, office teams, first‑timers to adventure racing, couples, groups of friends, and experienced outdoor folk looking for a one‑day epic with a clear goal.
Training made simple (six‑week primer)
Keep it practical and consistent—aim for 3–4 sessions per week.
- Bike (1–2×/wk): a steady ride building to the longest event distance, plus one hillier session.
- Run/trek (1–2×/wk): mix trail hikes and easy runs; practise hiking with a small pack.
- Brick (1×/wk): short bike → short hike to get used to transitions.
- Paddle intro (2–3 short sessions total): flat‑water kayak/canoe; focus on posture and rhythmic strokes.
- Team day (1–2× before the event): stitch disciplines together and test kit/food.
If you’re unsure where to begin, don't worry. You'll receive full guidance and pre‑event briefings to get you on track.
Fundraising made doable
Race the Sun is first and foremost a charity team challenge for Action Medical Research. You can fundraise as a team to reach your goal. Check the event page for the option you prefer and any deadlines (teams aim to hit 50% of the target around two months before their event to make sure the charity isn't out of pocket). Action’s Events Team will support you with materials and tips throughout.
Quick wins:
- Start early with your story—why you’re racing and who benefits.
- Use team updates (training photos, route recces) and a simple donation ladder.
- Ask your employer about match funding or payroll giving.
Rather not fundraise? You can now self-fund your way.
Kit & logistics: what’s provided vs what you bring
Provided on the day: kayaks/canoes, paddles, buoyancy aids; medics, marshals, signage, timing tracker/GPX, feed stations, finish‑line celebration. No paddling experience needed.
You provide: a road bike or MTB (depending on event), helmet, trail shoes, layers, waterproof, snacks/gels, spares (tubes/CO₂), and a small first‑aid kit. E‑bikes are allowed (carry spare batteries) but teams using e‑bikes aren’t eligible for fastest‑team awards.
At transitions you’ll be able to access kit for the next leg.
Transition set up was unbelievable, staff were so helpful and informative. Catering at lunchtime was fabulous, the rolls were absolutely incredible and the BBQ was fantastic. Thank you so much. Lucy S
Responsible and welcoming
The Race the Sun series is endorsed by SheRACES and delivered with an emphasis on safety, community and sustainability—think local suppliers, car‑sharing where possible and leaving no trace.
Stories from the course
Every venue carries its own flavour: chalk cliffs above Swanage, limestone walls in Cheddar, Cumbrian fells and long lakes. What unites them is the shared mission - teams working together, spurring each other on, high-fiving, sharing snacks, and pushing for that last checkpoint before the sky turns gold. (Then it’s medals, food and tall tales.)
FAQs
Two or four.
No. Boats, paddles and buoyancy aids are provided and instructors are on hand. For teams of two, sit on top kayaks are provided; for teams of 4, two open canoes are attached together.
Routes are signed and supported plus you’ll receive GPX files and a safety briefing.
Yes, but teams using e‑bikes aren’t eligible for “fastest team” awards. Don't forget to bring spare batteries if needed!
Yes. Start with consistent bike and trek training, add a couple of short paddle sessions and you’ll be ready.
Trail shoes, bike and helmet, layered clothing, waterproof, nutrition, spares and a small first‑aid kit. You'll get the mandatory kit list when you sign up.
Yes - checkpoint and course cut‑offs keep things safe and aligned with daylight. If you miss one, you may be short‑coursed; details are in the event brief.
A well-deserved medal, team awards and a celebratory BBQ.
Ready to beat the sunset?
Rally your team, pick your location, and enter your event:
- Race the Sun South Downs
- Race the Sun Jurassic Coast Off‑Road
- Race the Sun Cheddar Gorge
- Race the Sun Keswick (Lake District)
- Race the Sun Coniston Off‑Road (Lake District)
Or start at the Race the Sun series page to compare routes and dates.
Imagery credit James Vincent.