Woodpecker Challenge (Greater Spotted)
The Woodpecker Challenge is set in the stunning Brixworth Country Park. Over a varied multi-terrain route the stunning Pitsford Reservoir is the backdrop that’ll make you want to keep on going. So if you’re looking to come along for your first 10K, aiming for a marathon or looking to see how far you can go in 6 hours then sign up to this event!
What’s a 6 hour event?
It is an event that enables all abilities of runner to run together (or hike/walk!). Ultimately you can run as many 5k laps as you wish in the time limit. You can run one lap in 20 minutes, pick up your medal, flapjack and beer and go home! Alternatively you can head out on your 15th lap at 14:55 and finish in 6hr30 having covered over 50 miles! It’s completely up to you. There is no pressure from us,but we’ll also see if you want one more lap! The format is great for people looking to run further than they’ve ever done before, do a long training run for future events or to enjoy a sociable event with your mates.
Course description
The route is truly varied and on all terrains. The majority of the route is over crushed stone pathways but there are sections of asphalt and a grassy hill as well. Given the time of year road shoes are likely to suffice but in wet weather some grip might be useful! The route has stunning views across the reservoir and sections of shade and more exposed areas too.
What does it cost?
We operate a tiered pricing approach. The earlier you enter, the cheaper the event but never ever will you pay a booking fee!
Before 01/01/2021 £23
Before 12/04/2021 £28
After 12/04/2021 £33
Where is it?
Brixworth Country Park, Northamptonshire is a council run country park.
Brixworth, Northamptonshire. Parking and the event HQ is at Brixworth Country Park. The route is mainly within the Country Park but does also use Pitsford Water.
You do have to pay to park (£5.20 at the time of writing). That said, be a hero and car share, save money and the world!
There is an on-site cafe. Use the postcode NN6 9DG for sat navs. It's 10 minutes from Junction 2 of the A14. The closest train station is Northampton
How far is the race?
You decide! The 3.3-mile off-road loop means your race can be just over 5k or over 50k and anywhere in between. You decide how many laps you're going to do on the day within the 6-hour time limit. If you're looking to cover a marathon distance you'll need to complete 8 laps and a half marathon will be 4 laps.
Permissions
Permission for this event has been obtained from Northamptonshire County Council.
I’ve heard you do cupless events?
That’s right! Read all about how we do cupless events here
Has the event been run before?
Yes! You can find the previous results here.
I’ve heard you do nice medals. What will it look like?
We used to like a surprise but actually it’s nice to know what you’re running for!
I’m not that fussed by a medal, drink and flapjack…
In that case our partnership with Trees Not Tees may be of interest! When you sign up to this event you can select to have no finish line swag and instead we’ll donate the cost of this to Trees Not Tees who will plant a tree in their Scottish woodland on your behalf! You can find more info about this initiative here.
What are your refund/withdrawal rules?
You can find them here
I have a question.
No problem, check out our FAQ’s
“The lap system was great, not only for the new snacks to look forward to at the end of each one, but to catch up with other members of our group to see how everyone was doing. The organisation was spot on and the atmosphere was really supportive. ”
