As the UK's only UNESCO World Heritage site, this section of the Dorset coastline is universally celebrated for its beauty and diversity.  It is known as the Jurassic coast and officially boasts more geological variety than any other place on earth.  Epic hills and cliffs characterise this stage of the CTS, incorporating the highest point of the south coast of Britain, Golden Cap.
 
This is a trail runner's paradise offering breathtaking views, demanding climbs and an addictive exposure to the elements. The chances of you leaving this place without having fallen in love with trail running are slim. Beware!

 

 

 

 

 

Please note: Courses run in an anti-clockwise direction.

 

 

10K (km) / 10K (miles)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Predominantly clay mud and grassy trails.  Significant amount of hills.  Expect it to be slippery.  A section of beach to finish - shingle and sand.

 

Verdict - Tough going, trail shoes a must.  Take a steady pace and enjoy the expansive views at every opportunity.

 

 

Courses Records
 
This is a new course.  As a guide please refer to the CTS: Dorset 08/09 records below, which were based on courses out of Worth Matravers, near Swanage in Dorset:
 
Fastest Times:
 
Men
 
Marathon:  03:34:00 - Dave Ross (CTS 08-09)
Half Marathon:  01:33:58 - Andrew Greenleaf (CTS 08-09)
10K:  00:44:56 - Stuart Bowers (CTS 08-09)
 
Women
 
Marathon:  04:06:08 - Angie Sadler (CTS 08-09)

Half Marathon:  02:06:19 - Natasha Poole (CTS 08-09)
10K:  00:55:26 - Flavia Roberts (CTS 08-09)

 

 

 

Manor Farm Holiday Centre, Charmouth, Bridport.  Dorset.  DT6 6QL.

 

 

 

 

Registration:  07:00-08:00

Event Brief:  08:30

Start:  09:00

 

 

Registration:  08:30-09:30

Event Brief:  10:00

Start:  10:30

 

 

Registration:  10:00-11:00

Event Brief:  11:30

Start:  12:00

 

There will also be a pre-event registration session for all participants taking place on the Friday evening from 20:00 - 21:00.  This will take place at Endurancelife Event Base.  Registering early is strongly recommended to reduce registration queuing times on the event day.

 

 

 

Event parking will be located adjacent to the Event Base in a large grassy field.  On entering Charmouth, please follow the 'Parking' signs to the designated parking area.

 

Endurancelife strongly advocate car sharing.  The fewer cars, the lesser the impact on the environment.  Please help each other with car sharing by posting messages on our google group.  Many thanks.

 

Manor Farm Holiday Centre - 01297 560226 

 

Dining in Dorset lists a number of cafes and restaurants in Dorset.

 

Kitesurfing & Landboarding: David Furmage  07811 046457
Climbing: Rockfax has a large online database of all the places to climb in the area
Spa: Esporta  01202 642600 - visit the website and sign up for a one day free trial!

 

Endurancelife is committed to protecting and preserving our beautiful coastline, now and in years to come.  For 2009-10 we have teamed up with the National Trust to put your environmental credentials to the test and challenge you to a conservation activity.  This will be a unique opportunity to get close to nature, have a positive impact on the area, and experience for yourself just what it takes to look after some of the South West's most iconic and special places.

 

The first Eco Challenge takes place at CTS Stage 1: Dorset, at a beautiful location close to Charmouth.  This is the first in the series of Eco Challenges and is sure to be great fun.  It is open to all CTS participants, friends and family.
 
Led by local National Trust Wardens, you will be set your challenge to assist them in their vital conservation work.  The Dorset Eco Challenge is to take place on Stonebarrow Hill and will involve scrub clearing.  Expect to get your hands dirty, work up a sweat and have a great time as you assist in this vital work.

 

Stonebarrow Hill is an site of special scientific interest (SSSI), supporting the habitats of a number of rare breeds of bird ands butterfly.  Your task will be to clear a section of scrub and gorse which currently encroaches on the  grassland and heathland, and continues to endanger the sensitve habitats. 

 

There will be great views, fantastic camaraderie and a sense of satisfaction at the end of the Challenge once all the hard work is done.  If the weather allows, all will be rewarded with a bonfire which will round the day off nicely. 

 

There is a nominal fee of £5 per person, all of which goes directly to the National Trust.  This will cover the administration costs, staff costs and additional equipment that may be needed to be purchased for the challenge.  Any specialised tools or equipment will be provided by the NT so all you need to bring is some sturdy footwear, adequate clothing for the great outdoors and some enthusiasm!  Booking is open now but places are limited so be quick to sign up for a great day out.

 

 

 

 

 

Meet Point:  Stonebarrow Car Park (outside NT shop), Charmouth. DT6 6RA.

Meet Time:  10:00

Duration:  10:00 - 13:00

Parking:  Stonebarrow Car Park

Activity:  Scrub clearing

Equipment:  Bring suitable outdoor wear, sturdy footwear & heavy duty gardening gloves

Other:  Bring a snack & drink.  A camera to capture the views too!