Race Details: Stadium Runners' Woodland Challenge 2008

All you need to know about the race

Race day is approaching so we’ve put together some information to make the day easier for you.

Course Description

From the start outside The Arboretum bar the race route proceeds uphill towards the original site of Storthes Hall hospital, now derelict. After passing the former clock tower the route follows the hospital perimeter road as it heads uphill, levels off and then downhill until a T-junction is reached.

Turn right and then left at the marshal point to join a narrow track heading slightly downhill through the trees. All the off-road sections on the race route may be uneven and slippery, and low branches may also pose a hazard, so please be careful as you run. A couple of right turns brings the runners onto an open grassy field and then uphill once again to meet a track next to some football pitches.

After following the track for a short distance the race route re-enters the woods and then turns left to begin a gradual downhill section. At the next marshal point a right turn along broad woodland track brings runners to a junction of paths. From here a left turn heralds the main descent on the race route. This section of the course is steep in places and can be very muddy with tree roots and stumps to negotiate, so take your time and descend with care. Upon reaching the bottom of the hill carefully cross the stone wall and steps, before turning left through a gate and running across a meadow alongside the river.

After crossing another stone wall/stile and stream with stepping stone, run along the riverbank before the route doubles back on itself and then turns right to head uphill. It is at this point the Woodland Challenge really lives up to its name, with the route following a path steeply uphill through the woods for approximately 500 metres before emerging onto another broad track.

To complete the opening lap turn right and continue along the undulating track until the estate road is reached opposite the University halls of residence. Turn left here, to pass through the start/finish area as you prepare to take on the second lap of the Woodland Challenge.

On the day details

A 2007 Woodland Challenge Runner Race numbers and ChampionChips are not being posted out before prior to race day. They can be collected at Race HQ (marked on the map) from 8.00am on the morning of the race.

There will be a complimentary Baggage Area within The Arboretum for you to leave your belongings prior to the race.

A tag for your bag will be enclosed with your race number.

The Woodland Challenge race route will be clearly marked and fully marshalled on the day of the event, the description and the map is for your information and to make you aware of any specific hazards. Please remember Storthes Hall estate is open to the public, and runners may encounter walkers, dog walkers or cyclists on the course. The route involves steep gradients and uneven paths which may be muddy and slippery underfoot, as such off road/trail running shoes are advised for the event.

After the race, please exchange your ChampionChip for a goody-bag (there will be a £10 fine for non returned chips so make sure you hand it in), grab some refreshments and enjoy the atmosphere. The prize giving will take place in The Arboretum shortly after the last runner finishes.

The results will be available on the Stadium Runners' Woodland Challenge website (http://www.woodlandchallenge.com) shortly after the race. If you would like to receive your results by text message, then please ensure you put your mobile number on the entry form.

We hope the information above has answered any questions about the race but if you still have an unanswered query then please check our our FAQ and if you still cannot find the answer, please feel free to contact us.