17th Tour des Marches (Formally Wistanstow Challenge)

The 17th Tour des Marches (formerly known as the Wistanstow Challenge) is a delightful walking event set in the picturesque South Shropshire region. Lace-up your walking shoes, and let’s explore! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

Event Overview:

• Event Name: 17th Tour des Marches (Formally Wistanstow Challenge)
• Date: Saturday, September 14, 2024
• Event Type: Challenge Event
• Region / Area: Central England / South Shropshire
• Local Group: Marches

Walk Details:

• Distance Options:
  • 26 miles
  • 18 miles
  • 12 miles
• Start Time: Mass start at 08:30 AM
• Route: The walk begins from Wistanstow Village Hall and takes you on an undulating journey through the stunning SW Shropshire countryside. You’ll visit charming villages like Clun and Bishops Castle along the way. Much of your day will be spent in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, established in 1958. While some paths are well-known (including parts of The Shropshire Way), this event also introduces you to more secretive sections of the rights-of-way network. Don’t forget your map (Landranger 137)!

General Notes:

• On-the-Day Entries (OTD): Not available. Please register online in advance.
• Dogs: Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed due to the sheep country terrain.
• Runners: Runners are welcome to participate.
• Popularity: The 17th Tour des Marches is a popular and friendly walk that tends to fill up quickly. By July, it’s usually oversubscribed.
• Charitable Cause: This event supports a good cause within Wistanstow Parish and The Firefighters Charity.
• Online Entry: Register via SiEntries—entry limit: 150 participants.
• Additional Information: Visit the official event website for further details and previous finishers’ lists.

Entry Details:

• Cost:
  • LDWA Members: £12
  • Non-LDWA Participants: £18
  • Includes:
    • Snack breakfast from 07:15
    • Snacks and drinks at all checkpoints
    • Toilets at two main checkpoints
    • A hot meal at the finish (vegetarian option available)
    • Full support and transport back to the start for retirees and 12 & 18-mile walkers
    • Maps and route description
    • Certificate and finishers’ list
• Entry Opening Date: Entries open at the end of March 2024.

Get ready for a memorable day of walking, breathtaking scenery, and camaraderie! 🌿🥾 If you have any further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Phil Clarke via email at [email protected]. Happy trails! 🌟