Preparing for the Arc of Attrition: The Ultimate British Ultramarathon

The anticipated Arc of Attrition, also known as the ‘Arc100’, is set to commence soon, bringing together ultrarunners from around the globe to tackle one of the most challenging footraces in the UK. Based in Cornwall, this prestigious event takes place on the stunning, yet formidable, South West Coast Path National Trail. As it has become a staple in the January ultrarunning calendar, participants are gearing up for the physical and mental challenges that lie ahead.

As a 100-mile ultramarathon, the Arc of Attrition is not for the faint of heart. With a demanding 36-hour cut-off time, individuals must be sufficiently prepared to navigate the region’s rugged terrain while contending with infamous winter weather conditions. The Arc100 has gained further prestige by being incorporated into the UTMB World Series, elevating its status among international ultrarunning events. Additionally, the weekend includes the shorter Arc50, giving runners an option to compete at a more manageable distance.

Runners brave enough to complete the full 100 miles will be rewarded with an Arc of Attrition finisher’s buckle, with variations based on their performance time. Competitors achieving a remarkable finish within 24 hours earn a Black Buckle, while those completing the race in under 30 hours are awarded a Gold Buckle. Even completing the course within the stringent 36-hour requirement guarantees participants a Silver Buckle, serving as a testament to their grit and determination.

Understanding the Challenge: DNF Rates and Weather Conditions

A striking statistic highlighting the grueling nature of the Arc of Attrition is its DNF (Did Not Finish) rate, which exceeds 50%. This staggering figure reflects the tough conditions that participants face, primarily driven by the unpredictable Cornish weather and the rigorous demands of the terrain. As runners prepare for race day, understanding the challenges associated with the course is crucial for conducting oneself successfully throughout this ultramarathon.

Event Schedule and Live Tracking

The 2025 Arc of Attrition is scheduled to begin Friday, January 24th at 12:00 PM in Coverack, with a midnight deadline on January 25th for participants to arrive at the Eco Park in Porthtowan. Meanwhile, the Arc50 will kick off on Saturday, January 25th, starting at the iconic Minack Theatre in Porthcurno and also concluding at the Eco Park. Runners for both races will be able to track the action live via UTMB’s tracking system, engaging fans and supporters throughout the duration of the events. This feature enhances the experience for those following the race remotely as they witness the progress of their favorite runners from afar. Check out live race tracking here.

Star-Studded Competitors and Expectations

The 2025 event is poised to showcase numerous accomplished athletes, particularly in the women’s division. Claire Bannwarth from France stands out as a leading contender, holding a top UTMB Index of 705. Following her performance at the Hong Kong 100, it remains to be seen whether she will take on the challenge at Arc of Attrition. Other notable participants include Zoe Murphy, Noor Va der Veen, and Sarah Page, all of whom have impressive track records in ultrarunning.

On the men’s side, Ivan Hrastovec, boasting a UTMB Index of 819, is expected to put up a formidable challenge. He joins fellow competitors such as David Ryan and a host of British runners, setting the stage for a competitive race. Of particular interest will be the participation of Tom Evans, a strong contender for the Arc50 following his recent triumph in the Western States Endurance Run.

Route Overview: Navigating Cornwall’s South West Coast Path

The Arc of Attrition follows a breathtaking point-to-point course, traversing the Cornish coast from Coverack to Porthtowan. Stretching 100 miles, the route features significant elevation, spanning a total of 4,010 meters. While the scenic trail is a highlight of the race, the challenge largely stems from the coastal weather, which can be ruthlessly windy and wet during the winter months. Notably, the race mainly follows trails rather than roads, with only minimal road sections where necessary. Runners will encounter four well-stocked checkpoints along the way, spaced approximately 20 miles apart, assisting their journey through this arduous course.

Record-Breaking Performances

In recent years, the Arc of Attrition has seen remarkable performances that have set the bar high for future competitors. Emma Stuart captured attention when she significantly broke the women’s course record in 2023, finishing nearly four hours ahead of the previous record. Mark Darbyshire made headlines in 2024 by becoming the first runner to complete the Arc under the 19-hour mark, solidifying his status as a two-time champion at the event. Such record-breaking exploits inspire both seasoned and new ultrarunners as they prepare to take on the relentless demands of the Arc of Attrition.

With excitement building as race day approaches, the Arc of Attrition promises to be a challenging yet exhilarating experience for all involved. From elite athletes to enthusiastic amateurs, the ultramarathon celebrates endurance and determination while showcasing the stunning beauty of Cornwall’s coastline. As eager participants gear up to tackle this iconic race, attention will undoubtedly focus on their performances along this punishing but rewarding course.