PHOENIX - Wiltshire - Not So Dry January Run

I am absolutely thrilled to introduce a brand-new location for Phoenix Running Wiltshire. Kick off your 2027 discovering the town of Calne, where oxygen was discovered. You'll be in your element with the element that was discovered here!

Shake off the January blues, burn off those festive overindulgences, swap the sofa for the trail and run through a slice of local history! Running along the old Calne Branch line, you will be following the exact tracks that once kept the nation supplied with bacon.

Whether "Dry January" to you means abstaining for the month or just trying to survive the damp winter weather, this event is all about embracing the elements! Swap the duvet days for the scenic trails of Calne, splash through a slice of local railway history, and soar over the famous Millennium Bridge (there's always a bridge involved!).

Whether you are chasing a new PB, looking for a great training run, wanting to test kit, see how far you can go or would just like a lovely walk, run or joggle this event is for you. Rain or shine, you are guaranteed to be in your element!

THE EVENT CONCEPT

This is a timed event, you can start anytime between 7.30am to 8.30am and complete as many or as few 3.28 mile (5.25km) laps as you wish before the finish cut off time of 3.00pm.

For those aiming for a specific distance:

• 1 Lap: Perfect for a quick 5k+ trail fix.
• 4 Laps: A Half Marathon.
• 8 Laps: A Full Marathon.
• 9+ Laps: Ultra-marathon territory!

As long as you complete at least one lap, you are an official finisher with an official time and you will receive our stunning, and completely unique slate "Not So Dry January" coaster/medal and a very special bottle opener. You can stop at any time, take a break, or keep pushing until the clock runs out. You can 'ring out' your achievement on our unique Howzat Howitzer!

THE VENUE

Calne Castlefields Canal and River Park, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0DH https://www.castlefieldscarp.org/

The Landsdowne Strand Hotel is very close to Race HQ and will be open for coffee and food, plus they are very kindly letting us use the hotel for comfort breaks! https://lansdownestrand.co.uk/

THE TERRAIN

A traffic-free mixture of tarmac and gravel cycle paths following scenic riverside and countryside tracks along the former railway corridor.

THE ROUTE

Starting from the picturesque surroundings of Calne Castlefields Canal and River Park, the route follows the path of the historic Chippenham and Calne branch line along National Cycle Network Route 403.

STEP BACK IN TIME AT BLACK DOG HALT

As you run along the tree-lined trail, you'll pass the site of Black Dog Halt, a charming railway station originally built in 1874 to serve the nearby Bowood Estate. Later this stop was part of the famous "Calne Branch" line, often remembered for transporting Calne's famous Harris bacon products! Though the trains stopped running when the line closed in 1965, the old station area remains a peaceful historic highlight along the route.

CROSSING THE A4 FOOTBRIDGE

Further along the path, you'll cross high above the traffic on the striking red Millennium Bridge, also known as the Black Dog Bridge. This bowstring arch bridge gives you a fantastic elevated view of the Wiltshire countryside below. It makes a memorable landmark right before your turnaround point and a great spot to snap a mid-race selfie!

THE FAMOUS PHOENIX AID STATION

We don't do boring race fuel. Our legendary aid station will be located at the start/finish of every lap, meaning you are never more than 1.64 miles away from a feast. Special dietary requirements (Vegan/Gluten-Free) are always catered for!

Places are strictly limited to ensure the paths don't get overcrowded, so grab your spot early and don't miss out on being part of the inaugural event and be in your element in Calne!