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.