The Hever Castle Duathlon is a thrilling multisport event that takes place at the stunning Hever Castle in Kent, England. This annual race offers participants the opportunity to challenge themselves across a range of distances, all while immersed in the breathtaking surroundings of one of the UK’s most iconic castles.
Event Overview
The Hever Castle Duathlon is held on Saturday, 28th September 2024, and features two main race distances:
| Race | Distance |
|---|---|
| Standard Duathlon | 10K run, 40K cycle, 5K run |
| Sprint Duathlon | 5K run, 20K cycle, 2.5K run |
The event is a British Triathlon Permitted Event, meaning participants require a race licence or a BTF Race Pass to compete.
Captivating Course Terrain
The Hever Castle Duathlon offers a truly unique course experience, with both the run and cycle segments taking place largely off-road, through the stunning castle grounds and surrounding landscapes.
Run Course
The run course is predominantly off-road, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Hever Castle estate. Runners will traverse through the castle grounds, encountering a mix of trails, paths, and even some gentle inclines that add to the challenge.
Cycle Course
The cycle course is equally memorable, with a well-marshalled and signed route that takes riders through the picturesque Kent countryside. The distance of the cycle segment may vary at each venue, ranging from 64K to 96K, ensuring a new and exciting challenge for returning participants.
Exceptional Event Features
The Hever Castle Duathlon is more than just a race – it’s a true festival of multisport and family-friendly activities.
Festival Village
The event boasts a vibrant Festival Village, where spectators and participants can enjoy live music, shopping, food and drink, children’s entertainment, yoga, and much more. This lively atmosphere adds to the overall experience and creates a welcoming environment for everyone in attendance.
Junior Events
The Hever Castle Duathlon caters to the next generation of multisport enthusiasts, with a range of race distances for 9–16-year-olds. These junior events provide a fantastic opportunity for young athletes to get involved in the sport and experience the thrill of competition in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Relays and Mixed Relays
For those who prefer a team-based challenge, the Hever Castle Duathlon offers relay and mixed relay options, allowing participants to share the experience and work together towards a common goal.
Registration and Cost
Participants can register for the Hever Castle Duathlon through the Castle Race Series website. The cost for each race distance is as follows:
- Standard Duathlon: £80.00
- Sprint Duathlon: £75.00
Additional Considerations
Age Group Racing
The Hever Castle Duathlon hosts the 2025 Sprint Distance Duathlon European Qualifier, providing an opportunity for age group athletes to compete at an international level.
Camping
For those who wish to make a weekend of the event, the Hever Castle Duathlon offers a family campsite within the castle grounds, with pitches starting at £30.
Photography
Official photographers capture the event, and participants can purchase digital photos online at a 25% discount.
The Hever Castle Duathlon is a truly unique and captivating multisport event that combines the thrill of competition with the stunning backdrop of one of England’s most iconic castles. Whether you’re a seasoned duathlete or a newcomer to the sport, this event offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.