About the SCS
Meet the Founder
Jake Witney, founder of The South Coast Series, has been a passionate runner since the age of 14. Born and raised on The South Downs near Findon, Jake has explored nearly every trail, lane, and hidden route the area has to offer. From conquering 5Ks to pushing through 100-mile ultra marathons, his love for running runs deep—but a 100km race injury sparked a bold idea: to create a race that felt fully supported, fully stocked, and truly runner-focused.
In 2025, Jake brought that vision to life with The River Run, a race designed to challenge, inspire, and energize runners while celebrating the stunning South Downs landscape. By 2026, the Series had grown into three spectacular events forming The South Coast Series:
The River Run Half Marathon
The Housdean Half Marathon & 10K
The Rings Marathon & 50K
What makes The South Coast Series truly special isn’t just the trails—it’s the local community. Jake is committed to working closely with local businesses, artisans, and producers, making each race a showcase for the region’s best. From local businesses at aid stations to vibrant post-race celebrations, every event is designed to support the community, energise runners, and create memories that last long after the finish line.
Whether you’re a seasoned ultra runner or chasing your first half marathon, The South Coast Series offers a uniquely local, fully immersive running experience—where every step connects you to the trails, the town, and the people who make the South Downs unforgettable.
The South Coast Series
2026 Races
Since the first event the River Run, we knew we could develop and make each event tailored to every runner without having multiple distances on the day.
The South Coast series includes 4 main events.
The River Run - Half Marathon
The Rings - Marathon & 50K
The Housedean Half - Half Marathon & 10k
Each event is created for different types of runners. Whether you enjoy fast, flat runs or a more technical trail run. The South Coast Series has a run for everyone.
The River Run
Our First Race — and Still a Runner Favourite
Starting in the seaside town of Shoreham-by-Sea, this much-loved race follows the river towards Upper Beeding and Bramber. The route begins by passing the airfield and crossing the historic Old Toll Bridge before joining the Downs Link. Runners loop around Upper Beeding and the iconic Bramber Castle ruins, then return along the opposite side of the river back to the start line. It’s a beautifully scenic and super-flat course with zero elevation gain.
Originally launched as both a Half Marathon and Full Marathon, the event is now dedicated solely to the Half Marathon, with the Full Marathon moving to its own day under a new name — “The Rings.” This allows us to focus entirely on delivering the best possible experience for our half marathon runners each and every year.
The course combines trails, riverside paths, and town pathways, making it one of the most enjoyable and picturesque half marathons in the UK
The Housdean Half & 10K
The Housedean Half — A Scenic South Downs Trail Half Marathon
Set in the rolling countryside of East Sussex, The Housedean Half is a brand-new addition to the running calendar that’s already earning a reputation for its breathtaking scenery and runner-friendly course. Starting at the beautiful working Housedean Farm, this race blends open trails, gentle climbs, and wide-open views to create one of the most picturesque half marathon experiences in the UK.
From the moment you set off across the farm fields, the course takes you upward onto the South Downs, rewarding runners with panoramic vistas over Lewes, Plumpton, and the surrounding countryside. The terrain is a mix of well-kept trails, gravel paths, and farm footpaths — offering a refreshing alternative to purely road-based races while remaining accessible to runners of all abilities.
Often compared to iconic events like the Beachy Head Half but with its own unique charm and slightly gentler profile, The Housedean Half is ideal whether you’re chasing a personal best, tackling your first half marathon, or simply looking for a beautifully scenic run.
Runners also benefit from a fully supported race-day experience, with clear course signage, aid stations, race photography, and post-race refreshments in the heart of the event village. Plus, with on-site glamping and camping at Housedean Farm, it’s easy to make a weekend of it in the South Downs.
The Trail Trot
5K, 10K, Marathon & 50K
The Trail Trot — A South Downs Trail Running Festival (Formerly The Rings)
Returning for 2026 with a fresh new name, The Trail Trot builds on the success of last year’s inaugural event, formerly known as The River Run Marathon. With distances ranging from 5K and 10K to a full Marathon and ultra-distance 50K, this South Downs running festival offers something for everyone — from first-time trail runners to experienced endurance athletes.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the South Downs in West Sussex, the event begins on the historic grounds of Lancing College, one of the region’s most iconic landmarks. From here, runners head out across a network of scenic trails, bridleways, and countryside paths that showcase some of the most beautiful landscapes in the South East of England.
The shorter 5K and 10K routes guide runners toward the sweeping hilltop views of Lancing Ring, offering a rewarding introduction to South Downs trail running. Meanwhile, the Marathon and 50K courses venture deeper into the Downs, presenting a more challenging and adventurous journey across rolling hills and ancient landscapes, passing renowned landmarks such as Cissbury Ring, Chanctonbury Ring, and the historic market town of Steyning.
Each route highlights the diverse terrain that makes the South Downs so special — from flowing grassy trails and chalk paths to quiet village footways and panoramic ridgelines. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or simply soaking in the scenery, every mile offers something memorable.
Designed with runner experience in mind, participants will be released in staggered start waves to reduce congestion on the trails and ensure a smooth, enjoyable race for all distances. Combined with beautiful scenery, varied terrain, and a welcoming race atmosphere, The Trail Trot is quickly becoming one of the most exciting trail running events in the South East.
Whether you’re tackling your first trail race, stepping up to marathon distance, or taking on the ultimate 50K challenge, The Trail Trot promises an unforgettable day of running in the South Downs.