Frequently Asked Questions

Spires & Steeples Trail Festival

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🏁 Before You Enter

What is the Spires & Steeples Trail Festival?

A multi-distance trail running event in Lincolnshire, starting in Sleaford and following the Spires and Steeples route towards Lincoln. Distances include 10km, Half Marathon, Marathon, and a 50 Mile Ultra.

When is the event?

• Autumn Edition: 3 October 2026

• Spring Edition: 1 May 2027

What distances are available?

• 10km

• Half Marathon

• Marathon

• 50 Mile Ultra Marathon

What are the age requirements?

Minimum ages (on event day):

• 10km: 15+

• Half Marathon: 17+

• Marathon: 18+

• Ultra Marathon: 18+

Can I walk the event?

Yes—participants are welcome to walk, provided they can meet the official cut-off times.

Can I run with my dog or do canicross?

No. This is a strictly no dogs / no canicross event.

Are entries refundable or transferable?

Entries are subject to our Refund, Deferral and Transfer Policy.
Please review this before entering.

📍 Event Day Information

Where does the event start?

All races start at:

Jim’s Gym
Sleaford, NG34 7RZ

Where do races finish?

• 10km → Sleaford (Jim’s Gym)

• Half Marathon → Metheringham

• Marathon → Lincoln (Cathedral area)

• Ultra Marathon → Sleaford (Jim's Gym)

What time do races start?

• Ultra: 07:00

• Marathon: 08:00

• Half Marathon: 09:00

• 10km: 10:00

Please try to register on the day before or arrive early enough to register on the day.

Are there cut-off times?

Yes:

• Ultra: 23:59

• Marathon: 20:00

• Half Marathon: 15:00

• 10km: 12:30

Cut-offs are strictly enforced for safety.

🗺️ Route & Course

Is the route marked?

Yes. The route will be clearly marked and supported by volunteers at key locations.

However, this is a trail event—participants should remain aware of signage and surroundings at all times.

Are roads closed?

No. This is an open route event.

You must:

• Follow the Highway Code

• Take care at all road crossings

• Be responsible for your own safety

Are there checkpoints?

Yes. Checkpoints are located along the route and provide support, monitoring, and communication with race control.

💧 Aid Stations & Support

What is provided at aid stations?

• Water

• Electrolyte drinks

• Fruit

• Snacks

Is this a cupless event?

Yes. You must bring your own:

• Bottle

• Soft flask

• Hydration vest

• Reusable cup

Do I need to carry my own nutrition?

Yes. Aid stations are supplementary. You should carry enough nutrition for your race.

Is this a fully supported race?

No. This is a self-sufficient trail event. You are responsible for:

• Your pacing

• Hydration

• Nutrition

• Safety decisions

⚕️ Safety & Medical

Is there medical support?

Yes. Professional medical cover will be in place throughout the event, supported by trained volunteers.

What happens in an emergency?

• Contact event control (details on race number)

• Speak to the nearest volunteer

Emergency services will be contacted if required.

What if I need to withdraw?

You must report to:

• A checkpoint

• An aid station

• Or an event official

⚠️ Do not leave the course without informing the event team.

Participants are responsible for their own onward transport.

🎒 Kit & Preparation

Is there mandatory kit?

Mandatory kit may apply, particularly for the Ultra Marathon.

Details will be provided in advance.

What kit is recommended?

• Trail shoes

• Waterproof layer

• Hydration system

• Nutrition

• Mobile phone

🌍 Environment & Responsibility

What is your litter policy?

We operate a strict Leave No Trace approach.

• No littering

• Carry waste between aid stations

• Use designated bins

Littering may result in disqualification.

📸 Event Experience

Will there be photos?

Yes. Event photography will be available.

Will I receive a medal?

Yes. All finishers will receive a medal.

Is there merchandise?

Yes. Event merchandise will be available.

🚆 Travel & Logistics

Is parking available?

Yes—details will be provided in pre-event communications.

What if I finish away from the start?

Participants are responsible for their own transport.

Nearby transport options:

• Metheringham (Half Marathon finish)

• Lincoln (Marathon finish)

🌧️ Weather & Event Changes

What happens in bad weather?

The Race Director may:

• Adjust the route

• Delay the start

• Shorten distances

• Cancel the event if necessary

Safety is always the priority.

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📩 Contact

For any enquiries:

James Dexter
Jim’s Gym
📧 JimsGym@Myself.com

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✅ Final Note

This is a challenging and rewarding trail event.
Come prepared, respect the course, and enjoy the experience.