The Great Barrow Challenge invites runners of all levels to experience its unique course offerings at Suffolk Running Centre on Church Road in Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5AX. This exciting series spans ten days and offers individual day entry options for participants looking to test their limits. On Day Seven, the focus is Chevington, a challenging yet scenic route that promises variety with its mix of road and trail terrain. The course covers 21.1 kilometers (13.1 miles) in a loop format, featuring a steady climb to reach a high point at halfway before rolling back down for the return journey. Participants can choose between different distances: those opting for a half marathon will complete one full loop; marathon runners and ultra-distance enthusiasts will tackle two loops, with additional options leading to either 5k or 10k turnpoints. The Chevington route is approximately 68% road and 32% trail, ascending to an elevation of up to 127 meters (417 feet) throughout its course. This dynamic landscape ensures a rewarding challenge for runners who enjoy both the rigors of paved roads and the natural beauty of off-road trails. Runners participating in shorter distances such as 5k or 10k will be directed to specific turnpoints before retracing their steps back to the starting point at Suffolk Running Centre. A detailed GPX file is available for download from the "course" tab on the event website, providing a comprehensive guide of the route's layout and elevation changes. The Great Barrow Challenge offers bespoke medals upon completion of each day’s race, adding an extra layer of motivation and recognition to your efforts. Participants are encouraged to bring their own reusable bottles or cups as part of the event's "cupless" initiative aimed at reducing waste during races. Additionally, parking is included in the entry price for added convenience. Safety measures include restrictions on dogs and buggies due to open roads along parts of the route, ensuring a secure environment for all runners. Headphones are not permitted except for bone conduction devices to maintain awareness of surroundings throughout the race day. For those interested in virtual participation or additional merchandise related to the event, Zig Zag Running's website offers an online shop with various items available for purchase. Join us at Suffolk Running Centre on August 4, 2027, and immerse yourself in this unforgettable running experience!
Races Offered
Bespoke Event Medal
Aug 04, 2027
straighten
Distance —
Bespoke Event Medal
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
329 days remaining
sell
£38.00
Lucky Dip Medal
Aug 04, 2027
straighten
Distance —
Lucky Dip Medal
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
329 days remaining
sell
£35.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for August in Bury St Edmunds.
thermostatTemperature
13.3° / 22.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
11.3° / 19.7°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 27m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.5 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
14.8 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.9)
humidity_mid
Humidity
70.9%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:42
nightlight
Sunset
20:19
About Bury St Edmunds
Learn more about the host city, Bury St Edmunds.
Bury St Edmunds, or simply Bury, is a historic market town of 40,000 people (2011) in the county of Suffolk, in England. The town's medieval heritage is still visible in much of the street plan of the town centre which has not changed in 1000 years. Bury is also famous for its floral displays, and has won many awards for these, including the prestigious 'Nations in Bloom' title, contested by towns and cities worldwide.