Race the Sun is an exhilarating team challenge for teams of two or four, combining cycling, hiking and paddling. Working together, your team must complete the course within the event time limit, making it a true test of teamwork, determination and endurance!

There are four events in the 2027 series, each set in a stunning UK location: the South Downs, Jurassic Coast, Chilterns and Lake District. Each offers its own unique challenge and scenery, so you can choose the adventure that appeals to you most.

Race the Sun is achievable by people with a reasonable fitness level who are prepared to put in some training beforehand. The more you train, the more you’ll enjoy the challenge. It’s a great incentive to get fit and work a load of different muscles, whilst knowing you’re raising funds for an excellent cause at the same time.

Participants must be at least 18 years old, and be in suitable physical condition to undertake the challenge as set out in the itinerary. 16-17-year-olds may also participate in challenges if accompanied on the challenge by their parent or guardian.

No. Taking part as a team is what makes Race the Sun so special, and what sets it apart from other events. If you’re unable to make up a team then please contact us, and we may be able to match you with teams looking for members.

Don’t worry if you haven’t confirmed your whole team yet; you can register now to ensure that you don’t miss out, and then add teammates later via the online booking platform.

Yes, registration costs £60 per person (£120 for a team of two or £240 for a team of four). This includes full event support, medals, use of canoe/kayak equipment, course signage, event staff and food. Everything you need for an amazing day of adventure with your team!

Yes. Race the Sun is a team fundraising event for children’s charity, Action Medical Research. The money you raise will help fund groundbreaking medical research to save and change the lives of babies and children. Find out more about our work.

The minimum fundraising target is:
- Teams of two: £1,000 (£500 per person)
- Teams of four: £2,000 (£500 per person)

To secure your place, your team needs to have raised at least 60% of its fundraising target two months before the event. This helps ensure we have sufficient funds to support our charitable work and that the event is financially viable.

The remaining fundraising needs to reach Action Medical Research within six weeks of the event.

No, but you could simply add the necessary funds to your overall fundraising target yourself.

Yes, but please ensure that you carry spare batteries, or other spares specific to e-bikes, as these may not be available from the bike mechanics.

For further information, you can view our e-bike policy here

Yes. We provide the canoe, or kayak, paddles, and buoyancy aids, you’ll just need to wear suitable clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. Just in case!!

No previous experience is necessary, and fully qualified instructors will be on hand to help and keep everyone safe.

• Online safety briefing before the event
• Breakfast, packed lunch, drinks and snacks available at Transition Stations / Event Hub
• Fully supported route with marshals and signage
• Bike mechanics and first-aiders
• Timing tracker & GPX route files
• Kayak/canoe equipment
• Team awards & finishers medal
• Meal and celebratory drink at the finish line

In short, no. There will be transition points where you can leave your stuff for the next discipline, but finer details about what to pack will be communicated with teams closer to the event.

Yes, absolutely! We have an award especially for teams who go the extra mile… the Best Dressed Team Award. Race the Sun is all about having fun and raising money for charity! All we ask is that costumes should not pose a danger or be perceived to be found offensive to other participants or spectators. Action Medical Research reserve the right to remove any participants who are deemed to be dressed indecently or offensively, or wearing costumes which pose a danger to others.