Can I take part on my own?

Individuals without a team are most welcome to enter. We can usually find a team for you to join or you can walk on your own if you prefer but you will need to have a supporter to do this.

How much sponsorship do I have to raise?

We suggest that a minimum of £150 is raised by each team member, but ideally the team will be able to raise about £1000 in total as a guide.

How many people in a team?

You can have as many members in your team as you like but there is a minimum of 6 scoring walkers in a team with at least 2 members of different genders. You must also have at least one support vehicle and crew member.

How many teams will take part?

There can be a maximum of 25 teams who can take part.

When is the closing date to get my team in?

31st March 2008

Is there an age restriction?

There is no minimum or maximum age, all we ask is that all walkers are fit and healthy to take part

How do teams score points?

100 - Sponsorship pledge.
10 - By each scoring walker at every checkpoint
10 - Support crew confirm status before leaving
checkpoint.
100 - Team photo at Breakfast checkpoint (all 6
scoring walkers must be present).
100 - Quiz is marked out of 100.
tbc - Scoring walkers receive ranking points at the
finish. (dependant upon the number of scoring walkers entered).

What are the costs involved?

Entry fees must be paid by 31 March but anything paid before that date is refundable.

What is a support crew?

Support crew are members of your team who will drive on ahead of the walking team to each checkpoint. They will have with them the team's refreshments and change of clothing. Support crew needs to be mobile to assist walkers along the route where necessary.

We don't have a support crew. Can we take part?

No, it is essential for you to have adequate support so we will need to attach you to another team.

How many checkpoints are there?

There are 9 checkpoints which vary between 3 and 6 miles apart.

What if we take longer than normal?

If you arrive at checkpoint 9 after 3.30pm you must stop walking here and your support vehicle will drive the team to the finish area.

When is the start and how long should it take to complete?

The event starts at midnight and should take between 12-17 hours to complete.

What route does it take?

Following the South Downs Way from Steyning to Birling Gap through:

1. Upper Bleeding
2. Devils Dyke
3. Ditchling Beacon
4. New Market Inn (A27)
5. Rodmell
6. West Firle
7. Alfriston
8. Seven Sisters
9. Birling Gap

What is the OS ref for the walk?

The route of the South Downs Way is detailed in OS Maps 122 and 123

What kit will I need?

Support Cars:

1. Route instructions
2. Map
3. Copy of the Team Quiz
4. Contact numbers for walkers
5. Strong torch
6. Spare batteries
7. Mobile telephone
8. Spare car keys
9. Plenty of hot and cold drinks
10. Selection of food for energy and vitamins
11. Waterproofs
12. Plasters and basic first aid
13. Individual walker's spare clothing
14. Black bin liners for rubbish
15. Blankets/cushions
16. Sun Cream
17. Fold up chairs

Walkers:

1. Map
2. Route Instructions
3. Copy of the quiz
4. Basic First Aid
5. Mobile telephone
6. Personal food supplies
7. Camera
8. Waterproofs

What if a team member drops out?

Before the event begins:
Notify staff at registration and change scoring walkers if necessary. If you have less than 6 scoring walkers your team will forfeit points.
During the event:
If the team member decides to stop at a checkpoint, they can finish and stay with the support crew. If along the route, the walker cannot go any further you must communicate with your support crew to come and collect them from the along the route. If this is problematic, contact the event organisers.

What if we get lost?

This is very unlikely but can happen. Using your map and navigation skills you can easily pick up the South Downs Way. It is very easy to find and clearly marked. However, we advise you keep in contact with your support crew throughout the event.

What if someone gets injured?

You should have basic first aid with you to deal with any minor slips, trips and cuts. In the event of an emergency call 999 and inform you support crew of the situation, who will in turn, advise the event organisers.

How do I communicate with the team?

Each checkpoint is approximately 5 miles apart and your support crew can give and receive messages if your team is split. Communication on route will be via mobile telephone. Marshals at each checkpoint will also be in communication with each other and will update on status of walkers and teams.

What happens at the end?

Your support crew will be there to meet you and massages will be available for your weary feet and aching muscles. When you are ready, make your way to the hotel accommodation.

Where is our accommodation?

The Cavendish Hotel, 38 Grand Parade, Eastbourne BN21 4DH Telephone: 01323 410222

Can friends and family stay if they don't take part?

Yes - anyone can be added to your accommodation booking form at the same rate as all other team members.

Who I give my medical and dietary requirements to?

There will be a section on your accommodation booking form to include this.