Join the Revolution! Join the People's Front of Judea... the PFJ. Not the Judean People's Front. Splitters! Minimum requirement to join is that you've got to hate the Romans, and I mean you've got to REALLY hate the Romans.... oh and run a lap of the 4.37 mile route. And we'll ignore the fact that the Romans landed here and set up a huge gateway fortress, after all, what have the Romans ever done for us?
If this all sounds complete nonsense then as part of your pre-event preparations then you really need to watch one of the funniest films ever created - Monty Python's Life of Brian. Where this is one of the scenes and forms one of the main threads of the film. Seriously, watch it, it's very good. Of course if you are a Pythonist then this all makes perfect sense and we look forward to seeing you in February!
The coastal path known as the Viking Coastal Trail runs around Thanet and a section runs along the seafront at Ramsgate (or Remmesgate as named by the Romans!) which forms part of a popular route that we have here.
The route is 4.37 miles and runs both along the top and bottom of the cliffs on gentle slopes. The upper and lower sections are joined by a little "grotto" called the Chine which meanders through the cliff.
This event will have a six hour time limit for you to run as many, or as few laps as you wish. With a timed event, as long as you complete one lap, then you are an official finisher! As with all our challenges events as long as you are out one second before the cut off, so in this case 5 hours 59 mins and 59 seconds you are free to complete a final lap of the course.
What do I get?
You will receive,
1) A really special finishers medal, custom made and designed, not a generic one
2) A nice sized goody bag.
3) A well stocked base camp with plenty of nibbles and refreshments for during and post race replenishment.
Where do I park?
There is lots and lots of free street parking all the way along Royal Esplanade and Government Acre where we'll be set up. You'll pass the cars nearest the sea on each lap so you can use your vehicle as a giant drop bag if you wish if you park wisely!
See photos of location/basecamp
When do I get my race number?
You'll pick this up on race day morning from the race base camp.
Are there time limits?
Yes, six hours to run as many laps as you can. You can finish at any time within the 6 hours and your final distance will be recorded along with your finishing time. As long as you are out on your final lap before 5:59:59 you will be fine to carry on.
Any runner completing 6 laps will have completed marathon distance and will count as a marathon finish for the purposes of the 100 Marathon Club, if you complete 7 or more laps then you've completed an ultra. As long as you finish one lap then you'll receive an official finish time and medal. With timed events there are no DNFs as long as you complete one lap.
How are laps counted?
Depending on numbers we will either manually count laps or we'll dish out lap counting cards. Attach this to yourself with a safety pin or cable tie. At the end of each loop get this punched through by one of the hole puncher people. So basically at the end of each lap, get your card punched, or ring the bell!
You'll have to tell us when you're finished, not the other way around. As it's a timed event you choose when you finish.
We'll have an “official finishers bell” for this purpose, when you're done for the day, ring the bell and the goodies will be yours!
Do you have secure baggage facilities
No. But you're free to leave bags at the start/finish. There will always be someone around but we can't guarantee their security, in the event of rain we can't guarantee things won't get wet.
Can I leave my own drinks/food at the Base camp?
Yes no problem at all, however we encourage you to leave these at your bag or car to save space at the aid station.
Trail shoes? Road Shoes?
Road, road road!
Is the course closed to the public?
No. We are using the Viking Coastal Path. Runners do not have the right of way and need to be considerate of other users of the land, especially near the start/finish area which is a popular area for people walking their dogs, so beware of animals and leads.
What on course facilities do you provide?
Water, squash, nibbles, starter, timekeeper and encouragement every lap! Base station will be well stocked for all runners.
Are there any facilities at the start/finish area?
Water, squash, nibbles, starter, timekeeper and encouragement every lap! Toilets are situated a few yards away and are highlighted on the map, be aware that these are "supposed" to be open at 9.00am.
Can I use an ipod or mp3 player on the course?
Yes. Though please be aware that you are running on public footpaths with the general public so make sure that you pay attention to cyclists, people, children on bikes, wildlife and so on.
Could a supporter meet me at Ramsgate?
Absolutely, its well worth a visit for the walk and views.
Public Transport?
Ramsgate has a main line train station and is about a mile or so from the Start/Finish area.
General RunBelievable FAQ's can be found here