The Pathfinder March 2024
Info: New entries for this event closed on Monday 3rd June 2024.
| Entry Fee (per person) | £35.00 | |
All participants will receive a PFM24 T-Shirt and Finishers Medal. |
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The Pathfinder March is an annual 46-mile (74 kilometre) long-distance run or walk around the County of Cambridgeshire, England. The March route visits the former airbases of the famous Royal Air Force Pathfinder Force who were a vital component of Bomber Command during the Second World War. The Pathfinders were target-marking squadrons in RAF Bomber Command during World War II. Flying Halifaxes, Lancasters, Mosquitos, Stirlings and Wellingtons the force grew to 19 Squadrons; locating and marking targets with flares ahead of the main bomber force. The legacy of this dangerous and lonely role is kept alive today by those who challenge themselves to complete the arduous route.
Starting at 0400 (walkers) or 0800 (runners) from RAF Wyton Airfield (PE28 2EA), participants follow a circular route, passing through Godmanchester, Graveley, Papworth Everard, Elsworth, Childerley, Dry Drayton, Oakington, Oakington Airfield, Longstanton, Bluntisham, Colne, Somersham, Warboys, Warboys Airfield and Kings Ripton, before finishing back at RAF Wyton. Along the route there are 8 checkpoints where participants can have their walker/runner card punched. Although there will be route markers and signs some navigation will be required. You can enter as an solo runner or walker and complete the whole distance, or as a team (running or walking) and break the route down yourselves into a more managable relay.
Registration for the event will open at 0300 (walkers) and 0700 (runners). There will be limited medical cover on the day and all participants should be aware of the risks that an arduous event entails. On the day your should bring with you blister kit, torch (headtorches are best), map (OS Explorer 225) and sufficient supplies for the day. If you are travelling in from outside the local area there are numerous hotels and other accommodation available in nearby Huntingdon. Minimum age for participation is 16, with all 16 & 17 year olds requiring parent/guardian permission.
Please note, we are unable to provide individual timings, and all entrants should make their own provisions should they wish to record their performance.
Included in the March entry fee is a comprehensive route description, a bespoke t-shirt & a medal for all finishers.
We encourage all participants to seek sponsorship and/or fundraise on behalf of our preferred charity, the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA). Alternately, if you have another charity close to your heart, we equally encourage you to create a private donation page and raise money from friends and relatives for your chosen good cause.
All queries can be addressed to WYT-PathfinderMarch@mod.gov.uk.
View the Event Disclaimer / Terms and Conditions.
View the Event Cancellation / Refund Policy.
This event offers the option to purchase XCover, so that participants may be able to get a refund if they are unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.
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