The 2000 Perch is back! A 10km single-lap race across Epsom Downs, organised by the Epsom Oddballs for runners of all levels.
Race Date: Friday 26 June 2026. Evening start (7pm)
Location: Epsom Downs Racecourse
Distance: 10km (mixed terrain)
About the event
The Perch was a regular fixture in the Surrey running calendar through the 2000s and is now being brought back by Epsom Oddballs Running Club. The race takes its name from an old English unit of measurement. 2000 perch works out at just over six miles, and the original Perch races were run over that traditional distance. Previous editions have been held on Epsom Downs and in Nonsuch Park. The 2026 race keeps that spirit but moves to a 10km single-lap route across Epsom Downs. It’s undulating but very runnable, with wide views of the beautiful Downs.
What you get:
- Full pro chip timing via Sports Systems. Each km will be marked out and marshals will be at all turns on the route
- Finishers medal
- Dedicated bag drop and portable toilets at race HQ
Prizes
- Over £1000 in prize money for category winners
- Top 3 male and female finishers and age-group winners (V40, V50, V60+)
The Course
The race starts and finishes inside the Epsom Racecourse near the Tea Hut and Tattenham Corner. From the start, runners follow the inner side of the racecourse railings heading west before turning left onto Chalk Lane, a short stretch of road leading onto Grandstand Road. From here the course heads into open downland, following bridleways towards Langley Vale Road. Runners descend slightly before climbing steadily through the edge of Langley Vale village and then swing south to join the bridleway that runs parallel to Hurst Road, heading deep into the Langley Vale Centenary Wood area. The course then loops north via The Avenue, picking up the long climb past Epsom Lane North. After crossing the Downs, the final section cuts across the grass ‘chute’ area and one final fast downhill stretch before returning to the original start/finish point. Approx. 70% off-road and 30% road/hard trail.
Entries
Early bird entry: £22 (affiliated) / £24 (unaffiliated) until 30th April 2026
EA Event License: 30824
Transfer of Entries
The unauthorised transfer of numbers between runners is not permitted. Any runner found to have done so will be disqualified. Numbers may be exchanged on the day subject to an administration fee of £5.00.
Inclement weather
We reserve the right to alter and shorten the course in the interest of safety. Should the race have to be postponed due to inclement weather or circumstances beyond our control, your entry will be carried forward to another date, to be advised.
Follow The Perch
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Sponsorship and Local Support
We’re currently speaking with local businesses and community partners who’d like to support the return of the 2000 Perch. If you’re interested in sponsoring the race or getting involved in some way, we’d love to hear from you. This could be anything from water stations and prizes to branded banners and support-in-kind. You can access our sponsorship prospectus via the link below:
https://www.flipsnack.com/57DBDAF7C6F/epsom-oddballs-sponsorship-brochure
To discuss sponsorship or support, email: perch@epsomoddballs.org
