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dawn to dusk triple challenge
Take on this incredible team challenge journeying along the beautiful and renowned Jurassic Coast in Dorset that takes in the rich history of Corfe Castle and Old Harry Rocks sea cliffs.
As teams of two or four push your limits to complete a course that sees you bike, hike and paddle between dawn and dusk, racing the sun on this triathlon-style adventure charity fundraising challenge.
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key information
New for 2025!
- Date: Saturday 27 September 2025
- Location: Swanage, Dorset
- 2-person team: £99 registration fee + £950 fundraising
- 4-person team: £198 registration fee + £1,900 fundraising
BIKE
This 34-mile circular road route sees riders climb out of Swanage along small country lanes through Langton Matravers followed by a free-wheeling steep descent down to Kingston, towards the impressive and imposing ruins of Corfe Castle.
From here an undulating climb passes through Church Knowle, reaching the highest point of the ride with incredible views over Kimmeridge Bay. This is followed by arguably the highlight of the day, a stunning descent through the Tyneham Ranges, home of army tank commanders!
After winding through rural villages the ride arrives back at Corfe for a final climb of the day. The effort will be rewarded with long-reaching panoramic views of Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island, before the final long, fast descent back to Swanage.
HIKE
An 8-mile walk starts with a long climb out of Swanage on footpaths through farmland to the top of Ballard Down for stunning views back to the town.
The route then descends to the beautiful village of Studland, before climbing back up to the top of Ballard Down once more via the breathtaking chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks, with views over Poole Bay towards the Needles of the Isle of Wight.
Reaching the top of Ballard Down again marks the start of the descent back to Swanage on the South West Coast Path along the clifftop, catching a glimpse of the paddle section in Swanage Bay below.
PADDLE
Launching from the beautiful sandy beach in Swanage, teams will take to the sea in canoes or kayaks where they will be treated to impressive views of towering Ballard Cliffs which rise out of the water from Swanage Bay.
The 2-mile circular route will be laid out with buoys. No canoe or kayak experience is necessary, and we'll provide everything you need, just bring some clothes you don't mind getting wet, and a sense of adventure!
WHY JOIN #TEAMACTION?
Race the Sun serves up enough adventure to challenge those looking to lay down a fast time, as well as those who just want a fun, exhilarating day with friends and family.
It's truly a charity fundraising team challenge not to be missed, and every pound raised will support life-changing research across the UK to help save and change the lives of sick and vulnerable children.
We will be with you every step of the way, helping you with training and fundraising tips to make sure you have an unforgettable day before the celebrations begin!
We had a fantastic weekend, and loved the novelty of doing 3 different disciplines. What took the event from being really good to being really special was the atmosphere created by the Action staff and the other participants who were all incredible!
EVENT INCLUDES
- Safety briefing
- Changeover stations with drinks and snacks
- Team awards & finishers medal
- Canoe or kayak equipment
- Bike mechanics and first aiders
- Marshals and signage
- Timing tracker & GPX route files
- BBQ and celebratory drink at the finish line
race for a reason
Race the Sun for children like Wilfred
Wilfred spent months in hospital fighting to survive after being born at just 25 weeks, weighing a tiny 2lb 6oz. He needed a ventilator to help him breathe and tests showed that, sadly, he had suffered a bleed on his brain, leading to irreversible brain damage. Doctors also feared that the potentially deadly bowel disease necrotising enterocolitis had taken hold. By taking part in Race the Sun and fundraising for Action, you are helping to fund research to help the devastation caused by premature birth and pregnancy complications.
Frequently asked questions
Pre-Registration
What is Race the Sun?
Race the Sun is a team challenge fundraising event for teams of two or four people, with the aim of completing three disciplines (cycling, hiking, and canoeing/kayaking) in as fast a time as possible!
Where is Race the Sun?
The event HQ is the picturesque village of Swanage, Dorset.
Event Hub address: King George Playing field, 12 Northbrook Rd, Swanage BH19 1AR
What is the route?
Everyone will start and finish each discipline at the event's central hub in Swanage, Dorset.
See the provisional route here.
Please note that the route is subject to change at any time, and without prior notice, although we will do our very best to communicate any changes in plenty of time.
How fit do I have to be?
Race the Sun is achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness 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.
What is the minimum age to take part?
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.
Is it a relay?
No, all team members must compete in each discipline. It’s a team event so you’re only as fast as your slowest team member, you need to stick together!
How long does it take to complete?
Some teams will complete the challenge in as little as five hours and others will take the whole day. Some teams want to compete for the fastest time and others want to simply complete the course – it’s really up to you!
Are there cut-off times?
The course is designed to be achievable in the time available and most teams will complete the full challenge. However, we do have cut-off times for your safety to ensure that the event finishes in daylight hours. These will be communicated closer to the event date and the marshals on the day will advise you if necessary.
Is there a registration entry fee?
Yes, it’s £99 for teams of two, and £198 for teams of four, plus the minimum fundraising amount. That’s less than £50 per person for an amazing day that you won’t forget in a hurry!!
When do entries close?
Registration closes at 17:00 on Monday 29 April, or sooner if places sell-out first. The entire Race the Sun 2023 series sold out before the registration deadline, so be sure to secure your place early to avoid disappointment!
If the event is sold out, how can I get a place?
Race the Sun is growing in popularity, with the entire series in 2023 being sold out. With more choice on offer in 2024 there is bound to be a Race the Sun to suit you, but if the event you have your heart set on has sold out, we will open a waiting list and contact people if places become available.
The best advice is to register early to avoid disappointment!!
What if I don't have a team yet?
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.
Is it possible to take part on my own?
No. Taking part as a team is what makes Race the Sun so special, and what stands 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.
Is there a team fundraising target?
Yes. Race the Sun is a team fundraising event for children’s charity, Action Medical Research. Money raised will help fund groundbreaking medical research to save and change the lives of babies and children. Learn more about the work of Action Medical Research here.
The team fundraising target is £950 per team of two, and £1,900 per team of four. Teams need to raise 50% of the fundraising target two months before the event date to secure their place on the event. We ask teams to do this to ensure that the charity will not be out of pocket. The remaining fundraising needs to be with the charity 6 weeks after the event.
What if our team can’t reach the target?
Please get in touch with the Events Team if you have any concerns about reaching your target and we can talk through your options with you. We have lots of resources to help you reach your target and remember, the earlier you start the easier it is!
Please be aware that if you do not raise 50% of the fundraising target two months before the event then your team’s place may be at risk, and you may not be able to take part.
Will Action help with fundraising?
Yes, it’s what we’re here for! Once you’ve signed up, we’ll be in regular contact with the team captain with fundraising ideas and advice, as well as materials and resources to get you started! You can also read through our comprehensive fundraising guide.
What bike do I need?
We recommend using a road bike or hybrid bike for this event.
As the route is on-road we would not recommend using a mountain bike. However, if you have trained on it and are confident you can complete the course you are more than welcome to use it.
All participants must provide their own bike, which should be in good working condition. We recommend servicing your bike before the event. On-site bike mechanics will be available at registration on Friday evening, and throughout the event to help with mechanical issues encountered on the event.
Can I take part on an e-bike?
Yes, but please note in the interests of fairness that by using an e-bike the entire team will not be eligible for any of the ‘fastest team’ award categories.
Please also ensure to carry spare batteries, or other spares specific to e-bikes, as these may not be available from the bike mechanics.
Are canoes/kayaks provided?
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.
What is included in the event?
- 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
- BBQ and celebratory drink at the finish line
What food and drink are included?
There will be pastries and fruit in the morning before the start for breakfast. Lunch, snacks and water refill points will be available at transition stations during your challenge and when you cross the finish line there will be a BBQ and drink waiting for you!
If you feel that you’ll need more than this, please bring it with you.
Will there be vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options?
Yes, please let us know your dietary requirements on your registration form.
Post-Registration
Where can we stay?
Check out the tourist board website for a list of accommodation options.
Do I have to carry all my stuff?
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.
Can I take part in fancy dress?
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.
When will I receive my race number?
At registration on the Friday evening. You will be given race numbers for your bike and your bag. We will give you your tracker and timer just before you cross the start line. Full details of what to expect at registration will be in your Event Guide which will be sent out via closer to the event.
I have registered but no longer able to take part, what should I do?
Please contact the Events Team if you are no longer able to take part in your event and we can discuss the options with you, which may include transferring to another event or deferring to next year.
Can I transfer my entry to someone else?
Yes. Contact the Events Team for further information.
Can I get a refund, transfer or defer my entry?
Please see our Withdrawals, Refunds, Transfers and Deferrals policy here.
Event day
What are the event timings?
The following is an example of the typical event timings for guidance only. Full details with precise timings will be sent out in the Event Guide closer to the time.
Friday 28 June
18:00 – 21:00
Team registration – Teams will be allocated a time to attend the event HQ to sign in, pick up race numbers, drop off transition bags and have their bikes checked over to ensure that you’re all ship shape and race ready in the morning.
Saturday 29 June
07:00 – 08:00
Event start – Teams depart in waves. Teams will be allocated a start wave about closer to the event.
16:00 – 19:00
PARTY TIME!! – Grab a bevvie as you cross the line, then chill out with your teammates and supporters over a bite to eat! Food and drink is available for registered participants only, there will not be an option for supporters to purchase anything on site, but they are more than welcome to bring their own to join the fun.
19:00
Event closes
Can friends and family watch?
Yes, and why not make a weekend of it! Supporters will be able to join you at the event HQ, then track your progress live online. We’ll share the tracking link with registered participants closer to the event.
Check out the tourist board for the area for inspiration of things to see and do before and after the event.
Does cycling take place on closed roads?
No. Please follow the highway code, and abide by the rules of the road, as well as being considerate to other road users. Take a look at this handy guide to cycling on the roads.
Post-event
Where can I find photos from the event?
Participant photography is not included in the event, but we do often have photographers roving around the course, as well as members of our staff and marshals capturing pictures and videos throughout the event. All images will be uploaded to this album after the event.
When will I receive my official time?
All Race the Sun events have live tracking, so you’ll receive your team’s time immediately after crossing the line. We will also publish the results on a webpage which will be shared with participants after the event.
When do you need to receive my fundraising by?
Teams need to reach their fundraising target 6 weeks after the event.
supported by
race the sun series
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21 June 2025
The Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) delivers a picturesque start and finish for this challenge that sees teams pitted against each other to bike, hike and paddle around the course in a race against the sun.
Race the Sun Cheddar Gorge
12 July 2025
New for 2025! The dramatic cliffs and beautiful scenery along the length of the renowned Cheddar Gorge in Somerset offer a truly unique setting for this challenge that features cycling up the gorge, a bucket-list UK ride.
Race the Sun Lake District Coniston Off-Road
17 May 2025
The village of Coniston, at the foot of one of Cumbria’s most popular and stunning fells, offers a truly striking setting for your route that includes an off-road bike section that explores the area's diverse terrain.
Race the Sun Lake District Keswick
6 September 2025
On this route, you will discover the breathtaking landscape of the Lake District with Skiddaw, one of the Lake District's most iconic mountains, providing a stunning backdrop to the beginning and end of your challenge.
Race the Sun Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
13 September 2025
This exciting route showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Welsh countryside, including the jagged peaks of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales.
Race the Sun Jurassic Coast Off-Road
14 June 2025
The dramatic cliffs and beautiful scenery along the renowned Jurassic Coast in Dorset offer a truly unique setting for this challenge that includes an off-road bike section that packs a punch with some thrilling descents!