Roly's Run

Nestled in the picturesque Meon Valley of Hampshire, Roly’s Run celebrates the enduring spirit and memory of Rich Walklate, affectionately known as Roly. This annual race offers runners three distinct distance options: 15 miles, 20 miles, and a grueling 40-mile challenge.
The event kicks off from Swanmore Village Hall at New Road in Swanmore, where participants can gather before the start of their respective races. The 40-mile competitors begin early at 8:00 am, while those tackling the shorter distances have until 9:30 am to set out on their journey.
The course takes runners through a scenic loop that starts and ends in Swanmore, incorporating sections of Beacon Hill, Exton, Meonstoke, East Meon, Ramsdean, Butser Hill, and Winchester Hill. The route is predominantly off-road with approximately 80% of the terrain being trail-based, making it an ideal adventure for both seasoned runners and those new to ultra distances.
One highlight of the course is a climb up to Winchester Hill on the South Downs Way, offering breathtaking views that make the ascent well worth the effort. The longer routes provide additional loops through diverse landscapes, including rolling hills and historic villages, ensuring a varied terrain with plenty of elevation changes.
While the trail conditions are generally manageable, runners should be prepared for challenging sections, especially in wet weather or after prolonged rainfall when loose stones and slippery descents might make footing uncertain. To aid navigation, the course is clearly marked with arrows, tape, flour, and flags throughout its length, and an up-to-date .gpx file will be available prior to race day.
Runners can enjoy fully stocked checkpoints along their route, providing essential hydration and sustenance as they push through challenging sections of the trail. Upon completion, all participants are greeted at Swanmore Village Hall with a hot drink and food awaiting them, making for an inviting end to a memorable run.
The event is organized by CHALK & MUD TRAIL RUNNING LTD under UKA rules, ensuring fair competition standards. It’s important to note that dogs are not permitted on the race route due to safety concerns. Additionally, participants must meet age requirements: 17 years and older for the 15-mile distance, 18 years and up for the 20 miles, and a minimum of 20 years old for those taking on the full 40 miles.
Roly’s Run is not just about completing a challenging course; it's an opportunity to connect with nature, test your limits in beautiful surroundings, and honor Roly’s legacy through participation.