Sunflower Stride
Sunflower Stride is an evening trail event near Dorchester that features two marked race routes through sunflower fields and surrounding bridleways. The event takes place on land that includes public access points and a section opened for race day only.
5k open to accompanied runners aged 13 and above.
10k open to runners aged 16 and above.
Runners meet in a large grassy carpark just outside Dorchester where race administration and refreshments are located. Numbers are collected on the day at the race admin tent. The routes are fully marked and include an aid station approximately halfway round the 10k course. This is a cupless event; drinks are provided on a top-up basis so runners should bring their own vessel. Collapsible cups are available for sale at sign-on.
Both routes cover varied terrain including hills, pasture, stubble fields and short sections of road with marshalled crossings. Part of the course crosses private land by permission; gates and livestock may be encountered and runners are asked to respect farm operations. The 10k has approximately 222 m total elevation and the 5k about 110 m. Sweepers will bring up the rear to check the route.
At the finish all finishers receive a Sunflower medal and trophies are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each race. Food and a licensed bar are available on site. The event supports local hospital charitable causes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Key Points
- Race Venue: The Dorset Sunflower Trail, Maiden Castle road Dorchester, DT2 9PP
- Timing: Registration opens 15.30, 10k race starts 17.00, 5k 17.30
- Race Numbers: Collected on the day
- Dogs: None on the venue please.
Introduction
The event is designed to be a fun filled evening in a very beautiful area of Dorset. Although we aim to please all abilities, this venue is not suited to out and out racing and the quest for a new PB! We will no doubt encounter the public on the castle, have a number of gates to open and close, a couple of road crossings (10k) and the section through the Sunflowers is narrow and twisty. On the plus side we have incredible views, cider, sunflowers, real ale, big hills, hog roast, and more sunflowers. We are also raising money for the Dorset County Hospital Emergency and Critical Care Appeal.
DIRECTIONS
Firstly, PLEASE DO NOT GO TO MAIDEN CASTLE FARM! Although we are on their land you cannot access the venue from the farm, rather you must follow signs to Maiden Castle (brown tourist signs). This is a no-through road just beyond Tesco’s within the town by-pass. We will have the normal Race Event signs out in key positions. It’s simple. From which ever direction you are coming, get on the A35 Dorchester by-pass and turn in towards town at the Tesco (A354 Weymouth junction) roundabout. Head in towards town for approximately ½ a mile then take the left-hand turn sign posted Maiden Castle and continue on this road for approximately 1 mile to reach the venue carpark.
W3W sunflower.badminton.basher Postcode DT2 9PP www.maidencastlefarm.co.uk/find-us
CAR PARKING AND LOOS
A large grass carpark suitable for all types of vehicles is situated a short distance from the sign-on area, here you will find refreshments and loos.
SIGN ON AND START
Find your way to the race admin tent to collect your numbers. We will have safety pins, but please bring ones from previous events if you can to save on cost and wastage. Please pin your number in clear view on your chest. The 10k race starts at 17.00 and the 5k at 17.30. A short race briefing will be given before each race. In the start area there will be a simple bar where beer, cider, pims and gin will be available, and a hog roast will be in attendance along with meat free options. Non alcoholic drinks are available in the normal refreshment area. Loos are situated here too. Access to the Sunflower trail for NON RUNNERS is available on a pay on the day basis, and is not included in the runners entry fee.
ON THE COURSE
Both routes