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Centurion North Downs Way 100 Mile Ultra Marathon
Prepare yourself for what is widely considered the toughest of the four Centurion 100 milers. The North Downs Way 100 mile ultra marathon is a formidable point-to-point ultra from Farnham in Surrey to Ashford in Kent, famed for its relentless hills, technical sections, and stunning English countryside.
This is a true classic and the third event in the Centurion 100 Mile Grand Slam. It’s a race that will test every aspect of your ultra-running ability, from your climbing strength and descending skills to your mental resilience through the second night.
Course
The NDW100 (North Downs Way 100 miler) is a beast of a course. The 103 mile (167km) route packs in a huge 3,350m (11,000ft) of elevation gain, making it the hilliest of Centurion's 100 mile ultras. The terrain is a demanding mix of ancient woodland trails, steep chalk escarpments, and seemingly endless successions of sharp, punchy climbs.
Your adventure begins in Farnham and quickly enters the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The first half of the race is defined by a series of iconic and punishing climbs, including the infamous ascent of Box Hill. After reaching the halfway point at Knockholt Pound, the second half offers slightly more runnable terrain as it crosses the Medway Bridge and heads into the Kent countryside.
However, the final 25 miles are not to be underestimated, with several more challenging climbs waiting to test your exhausted legs before the final, triumphant descent into Ashford and the finish on the Julie Rose Stadium athletics track.
To earn the North Downs Way 100 buckle is to conquer a truly formidable challenge. This is an ultramarathon for those who love hilly, technical trails and want to test themselves against the very best of what the south of England has to offer. The course is beautiful, steeped in history, and the camaraderie among runners is second to none. Supported by Centurion's top-notch aid stations and incredible volunteers, this is a tough but unforgettable ultra.
For full race details, including qualification requirements and registration, please visit the official race website.
