Robin Challenge

Sence Valley Forestry Park, nestled near Ibstock in Leicestershire, is the picturesque setting for an inclusive and flexible running event. Accessible via LE67 6NW on your GPS system, this Forestry England site offers a serene natural environment with amenities like a café and toilets to enhance your experience.
The park's proximity makes it convenient for participants from nearby areas such as Ashby-de-la-Zouch (11 minutes away) or those traveling by car via Junction 22 of the M1. For public transport users, Loughborough train station is conveniently close.
This event caters to runners and walkers alike with a unique format that allows you to choose your distance within a six-hour window. The course consists of a scenic 3.3-mile loop through Sence Valley Forest Park, featuring old mine landscapes and varied terrain including chunky climbs and descents. Participants can enjoy multiple laps, ranging from just one for those looking for a quick run or up to over 15 laps for endurance enthusiasts aiming to cover more than 80 kilometers.
The event is designed with flexibility in mind—whether you're training for future races, seeking a long-distance challenge, or simply enjoying the day with friends. The route's crushed stone paths and grassy sections offer both technical challenges and smooth stretches, making it ideal for trail runners looking to test their skills on varied surfaces.
For those who enjoy running with canine companions, this event welcomes canicross participants. Dogs must be kept under control throughout the run, ensuring a safe experience for all attendees.
Entry fees vary depending on when you register—£38 before September 8th and £43 after that date. Unaffiliated runners pay an additional two pounds but joining local running clubs or signing up with Big Bear Brigade grants discounts of up to ten percent off future entries.
Participants have the option to support Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children's Charity by setting up a fundraising page through Just Giving, contributing directly during registration, or both. All donations go towards providing specialist nurses and care for seriously ill children across the UK.
Past results from previous events are available online, offering insights into course records and past performances. The event has not been held since 2019 due to ownership changes in parts of the park but is now back with slight modifications to its layout.
For newcomers unsure about what to expect, detailed videos on Big Bear Events' YouTube channel provide comprehensive guidance. Additionally, participants can look forward to receiving a distinctive medal or an Earth Runs tree token upon completion, both celebrating your achievement and supporting environmental initiatives.
The route map is accessible via GPX files or through Plotaroute.com for those who prefer planning ahead. Markings will be clearly visible on race day, ensuring navigation remains straightforward even without prior knowledge of the course layout.
Ruckers are also welcome to join in, with specific guidelines available on how to participate effectively and comfortably.
For those unable to attend on the scheduled date, Skamper offers an On-Demand event experience. Using their app, you can run your chosen laps at a time that suits you best, receiving a medal by post upon completion.
Should any questions remain unanswered or if further assistance is needed, Big Bear Events’ Facebook group and direct email support are available to provide guidance and advice for all participants.
Join us in Sence Valley Forest Park this year for an unforgettable running experience tailored to your personal goals and preferences.