Sat 16 May 2026 Newbury, Berkshire

Compton Challenge

Compton Harriers invite you to take part in The Twenty Sixth Compton Downland Challenge consisting of The Compton Marathon & 16 Mile Challenge.

Sign up for £32.50-£40

Enter now

2 races

  • Sat 16 May
  • #1 of 2
Compton Village Hall and Wilkins Centre, Berkshire, RG20 6NP, Newbury

16 Mile

09:00

Age 18 & over

£32.50-£40

  • 16 miles trail running
  • Sat 16 May
  • #2 of 2
Compton Village Hall and Wilkins Centre, Berkshire, RG20 6NP, Newbury

Marathon

09:00

Age 18 & over

£32.50-£40

  • 26.8 miles trail running

Event overview

The Compton Challenge offers you the choice of a full marathon (26.8 miles), or a shorter 16 mile run. Both options are multi-terrain in nature, with the event starting/finishing on the Compton Village recreation ground (Burrell Road, Compton, Berks, RG20 6NP). Both routes meander around and over the picturesque Berkshire Downs, following clearly marked loops that criss-cross the ancient Ridgeway. The event will take runners along a variety of quiet tracks, trails and bridleways (which can get muddy when wet), plus some short, traffic free road sections.

There will be an opportunity to switch between the marathon and 16 mile routes at the 9 mile point. Entry fees for both races will be £32.50 or £38 on the day. A £2 levy will be applied to all unaffiliated runners. The event will be held under UKA rules (TRA race permit number 6758)

Race cut-off: All runners who have not reached the 9 mile point by 11:15 will be directed towards the 16 mile route. There is an overall cut-off time of 7 hours which should give enough time to complete each event, and enjoy a great day on the Downs.

Event details

  • Average fitness
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Event village
  • Free venue entry

Location

  • BBQ
  • Free parking
  • Secure bag storage
  • Showers
  • Toilets

Sustainability

  • Bring your own cup

Races at event

  • Sat 16 May
  • #1 of 2
Compton Village Hall and Wilkins Centre, Berkshire, RG20 6NP, Newbury
16 Mile

09:00

Age 18 & over

£32.50-£40

  • 16 miles trail running
  • Sat 16 May
  • #2 of 2
Compton Village Hall and Wilkins Centre, Berkshire, RG20 6NP, Newbury
Marathon

09:00

Age 18 & over

£32.50-£40

  • 26.8 miles trail running
4 steps to wellbeing
Sleep well

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Train slow

Low-intensity training is easier for you, reduces the risk of injury and helps builds an efficient aerobic system.

Eat natural

Cut out sugar & junk food, reduce carbs, eat natural foods and train your body to burn fat for fuel.

Get outdoors

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