Is the WCM a road or trail marathon?

All three distances (Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10km) are primarily off-road. You’ll have a short road section at the start of the marathon to clear Exmouth safely, and a few stretches of quiet country lanes to connect the dots. Otherwise, it’s all about beautiful footpaths, bridleways, and coastal views.

Is it a hilly route?

We like to call it "undulating"

• The Marathon features 780m of total ascent (moderate).

• The Half Marathon is a treat as it’s gradually downhill until just after the 10km start line.

• The 10km includes 250m of ascent.

For context, the London Marathon is famously flat with only 85m of total climb. You’re definitely earning your medal here

What are the cut-offs?

All distances finish in Exmouth by 18:00. The marathon starts @9:00, giving 9 hours to complete. If you’re worried that 9 hours feels tight, you are welcome to take an early start (up to one hour before the official gun).

I don’t normally like pre-race dinners, why should I attend this one?

Most pre-race dinners are about eating. Ours is about people. You’ll be sharing a meal with some of the most inspiring women in the running world, who will also join you on the start line: Jenny Kumar, Jo Pavey, Lisa Jackson, Tasha Thompson, Juliet McGrattan and Jen Benson. You will likely spend a lot of time on the course on race day. You might as well start with some new friends.

Is the route difficult?

All marathons are difficult. But only some are truly rewarding. My dog, Tess, is terrified of gunshots. But give her a ball and she’ll walk happily through a battlefield. Think of the marathon as the gunshot and the WCM atmosphere as the ball. It’s tough, but with the support and community around you, you’ll be too busy enjoying yourself to notice the miles.

Are dogs allowed?

Sadly no - not even female dogs! We love dogs (I’d never actually make Tess walk through a battlefield), but there are several places where the path is narrow and allowing dogs would interfere with other runners.

I am thinking of entering the London Maraton in 2027. Why should I do the WCM instead?

The London Marathon is an amazing race. It is an experience you will never forget. I have run it - although so long ago, I can no longer remember it. The WMC will also be memorable, but unlike the London Marathon it is a one off event specifically commemorating the 60th anniversary of Kathrine Switzer’s historic 1967 Boston run. And if it weren't for women like Kathrine, it would be your husband entering the London Marathon, not you.

I don’t like running, is the WCM for me?

I have had many great experiences doing things I thought I didn’t like. The WCM is a running event but mostly it is a celebration of women in sport. If you want to celebrate with us and you really don't like to run, it is possible to walk it within the time limit.

I’ve never run a marathon, do you think I can do it?

Before my first marathon I had never run a marathon. If I can do it, you can. In the words of Sophie Raworth, “we are all capable of more than we think… especially women”.

I live in Cambridge where there are no hills, will I find the WMC too challenging?

I once trained for the Jungfrau Mountain Marathon entirely on the flat towpaths of the River Stort navigation. I didn’t set a world record, but I wasn't running for the time—I was running for the mountain. Take the hills at your own pace and you’ll be fine.

Can I use walking poles?

You are welcome to use poles during the event. Should you choose to do so, please be considerate of other runners and users of the foot path as the route includes some narrow sections.

Mandatory Kit?

Unlike events involving men, we believe you are capable of making the right choice of kit for the conditions. However, if you are uncertain for any reason, please ask.

Are headphones allowed?

Bone conducting headphones are allowed; in ear or over ear headphone are not. If you do choose to wear headphones, don’t let them distract you from the beautiful scenery and the other loverly runners.

I’m 75 next year, am I too old to run a marathon?

I don’t know, I’ve never been 75, but you’ve inspired me to enter a marathon should I reach that age.

FAQs