The Otmoor Challenge

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2022 OTMOOR CHALLENGE

CANCELLED


With much regret, the 2022 Otmoor Challenge Run & Walk have been cancelled due to recently highlighted safety issues, that are unable to be resolved before the 11th June

All runners who have pre-paid their entry fee will be contacted.

We apologise to everyone who was planning to take part in the event for this short-notice announcement.

We plan to address the issues and re-schedule the event either later this year or in 2023.





So - where is Otmoor and what is the Challenge? Otmoor is an area of fenland between Oxford and Bicester, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a major bird sanctuary belonging to the RSPB. Surrounding the area are the so-called Seven Towns of Otmoor (really villages), one of which is Horton cum Studley. Annually, for more than 40 years, Horton cum Studley has organised a half-marathon with the title "The Otmoor Challenge" around the roads, tracks and field paths of Otmoor, a race that attracts between 300-400 runners of all abilities, both as club runners and as individuals, from the local area as well as much further afield.

The race starts and ends at the Millennium Hall in Horton cum Studley (OX33 1AD), with the course being mostly flat apart from a 130 foot climb up to the village of Beckley at about the 11 mile point. The course has distance markers and water points with enthusiastic supporters to cheer the runners on. Course records show the competitiveness of the event - the current men's record stands at 1:12:08, while the ladies' record is 1:26:00. There are trophies to be won in the main categories, and the first 350 runners finishing are awarded a commemorative medal. Runners are encouraged to also form teams of four, which can be male, female or mixed, to win team prizes in addition to individual awards.

Runners commence the race in a mass start from the field at the Millennium Hall, Horton cum Studley. Walkers can walk the 13 mile route, or alternatively walk a shorter 5 mile version.

Runners can choose to pre-enter (for a reduced entry fee) or enter on the race day.
Runners must read both the Conditions of Entry and the Rules of the Otmoor Challenge, which are both available on this website.

For more details, please see the runners or walkers pages on this website

The Otmoor Challenge is an exciting and competitive event for runners of all abilities. The walk attracts both enthusiastic walkers and family groups who can enjoy either a fast walk or a gentle stroll through the countryside. The money raised from all these events, after operating costs are deducted, is donated to local charities and good causes. In 2019, over £6000 was distributed.
The Otmoor Challenge, The Millennium Hall, The Straight Mile, Horton Cum Studley, Oxon OX33 1AD
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