Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about the event.
If you do not find the information you require here please don’t hesitate to Contact Us
How much does it cost to enter?
Registration costs £6 Adults and £4 Children (under 16). There is a £1 discount per person if you pre-register online.
Thanks to our generous sponsors, every penny raised through entry fees and donations will go directly to Winston’s Wish.
What is the course like?
You can choose to complete either the 2 or 4 mile challenge.
Both routes start and finish at the Best Mate Enclosure of Cheltenham Racecourse.
The 2 mile course remains for the most part on tarmac road surrounding the racecourse but there is a short section of loose gravel. The 4 mile offers a slightly more challenging terrain with a mixture of tarmac, gravel and grass (likely to be muddy!).
Both routes will be clearly marked and there will be marshals at strategic points to guide and help you if you need assistance.
What time should I arrive at the event?
Registration will begin at 9 am and will close at 10:15 am. The start of the challenge is at 10:30 am.
The 4 mile will be first off, with the 2 mile following closely behind.
You are encouraged to arrive in plenty of time to park, collect your entry number and make your way to the course. Please pre-register online to save time as well as money by avoiding the race day surcharge.
Will there be parking facilities?
There is ample parking free of charge in the ‘Park and Ride’ car park off New Barn Lane.
Will there be refreshments available?
Refreshments (tea, coffee, water, squash and mince pies) will be available at the start / finish area. Every finisher will be entitled to a complimentary mince pie as a reward for completing the challenge
What happens if I can’t finish the challenge?
If you feel that you are unable to complete the challenge, please make your way to the nearest marshal who will take care of you and ensure you are escorted back to the start / finish area
Will there be anywhere to leave any valuables?
Unfortunately there are no facilities to leave possessions at the event so please make sure that you only bring essential items with you.
Will there be first aid facilities?
We will have first aiders available at the start / finish area. If you require assistance around the course please make yourself known to one of our marshals.
Will there be toilets / showers available?
Toilet facilities will be available at the start / finish area.
Unfortunately there are no shower facilities available.
What should I wear?
Most important is for you to wear suitable footwear - something you will be comfortable to run or walk in. The terrain, especially the 4 mile course, is likely to be wet and muddy in places so be sure to dress appropriately. Make sure you have some warm clothing with you for before and after the challenge and don’t forget to bring waterproofs in case of rain.
Can I come in fancy dress?
Absolutely! It is not a requirement but it certainly adds to the fun of the occasion!
Do I need to train?
You can run, walk or crawl the course! The Boxing Day Challenge is aimed at all ages and physical abilities so we hope you can find a challenge that is appropriate to your current level of fitness.
That said, if the thought of running 4 miles right now seems a bit daunting, why not use this as a motivation to get yourself in shape and do a bit of training beforehand.
I have a disability; can I still take part?
We want to encourage as many people as possible to take part. Last year we had a huge range of people complete the challenge including wheelchair users. The course is however quite demanding for disabled participants; there are a number of hills and the ground is uneven in places. For this reason we ask that disabled participants Contact Us prior to registering to discuss the suitability of the event.
How old do I need to be to take part?
There is no age limit for participants, however we do ask that any children under the age of 16 are accompanied by a responsible adult.
Can I bring my family and friends to support me?
You are absolutely allowed to have supporters at the beginning and/or end of the walks; it’s great to have some familiar faces to give you that vital bit of encouragement and support just when you need it most.
Can I bring pets?
We have had a number of dogs complete the challenge in the past. They are always a nice addition to the event. We only ask that they are kept on a lead and under control at all times. Dogs are not allowed inside the Racecourse building so please arrange for someone to look after them outside while you register.
Do I have to get people to sponsor me?
We understand that Christmas is an expensive time for everyone and so do not require you to raise sponsorship. If however you feel you would like to have people sponsor you please download a sponsor form by clicking here and return it with the collected funds directly to:
Winston’s Wish, Westmoreland House, 80-86 Bath Road Cheltenham GL53 7JT
Grateful thanks go to our sponsors.
Please click on their logo to find out more.
The Boxing Day Challenge is a third party organised fund raising event in aid of Winston’s Wish
Winston’s Wish is a registered charity no. 1061359