Race To The King
20th June 2026
The perfect first ultra marathon. Follow in the footsteps of royalty along the spectacular Monarch’s Way and South Downs Way in this unique and inclusive figure-of-eight ultramarathon.
Write your own piece of history in the heart of the South Downs as you chase the King from ancient coast to sweeping ridges.
You can choose 30km, 50km, 80km or 100k routes:
For the ultimate challenge, the 100k route consists of both loops back-to-back.
50km Coastal takes you along the coastal path of Chichester Harbour AONB, through the picturesque ancient village of Bosham. If Castles are your thing, 50km Castle route winds along the River Arun, past Arundel Castle and up along the South Downs Way before heading back to the finish line.
80km non stop, consisting of the Coastal 50k and the Monarch’s Loop 30k, our new 80k Non-Stop option provides the perfect ‘stepping stone’ for runners and walkers looking to make the jump up from the 50k distance who aren’t yet ready to tackle a full 100k.
30km shares a start and finish with the Castle 50k, the Monarch’s Loop 30k heads out from basecamp at West Dean Gardens towards Bignor Hill via the South Downs Way. From there, it joins the Monarch's Way via Stane Street, an ancient Roman road (now trail) which historically connected London with Chichester. Winding through forests and scenic Downland terrain, the route then finishes with a glorious few miles through the West Dean estate.
You will be treated like royalty on your journey with fully stocked pitstops, laden with food and drinks, and tireless support from our crew and medics.
This is a challenge for all, inclusive of all ages, experience, and fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, patient plodder or weekend walker – take on 100km in one go, or 50km in one day via the coast or castle.
What’s included through the event:
- Training program tailored to all levels
- Fully signposted trails for navigation in day & night conditions
- Routes through heritage sites, AONBs and along National Trails
- Fully stocked pit stops including cereal bars, chocolate, sweets, fresh fruit, crisps, sandwiches and more
- Hot meals, showers, drinks and sports nutrition
- Qualified medical personnel at all pit-stops & medical clinics at basecamp & finish points 1
- Finisher’s medal
- Individual chip timing throughout the event
Join Team #RugbyRunners in one of the most scenic ultra marathons and receive amazing support from the moment you sign up. Everyone who runs with our team receives the following:
- A Team Rugby Runners Welcome Pack full of fundraising tips and advice.
- An IPF t-shirt to show the world you're on our team.
- A technical fibre IPF running vest.
- Unlimited 1-1 support from our dedicated fundraising team.
The 30K Route
Registration Fee: £30
Minimum Fundraising Pledge: £350
The 50K Route - Castle or Coastal
Registration Fee: £35
Minimum Fundraising Pledge: £350
The 80k Route (non-stop)
Registration Fee: £40
Minimum Fundraising Pledge: £450
The 100k Route (non-stop)
Registration Fee: £45
Minimum Fundraising Pledge: £550