Thomas Cup Handicap

Traditionally our first cross-country handicap* fixture, this year's Thomas Cup on 26 September 2026 will mark the start of Ranelagh's 145th season.

This 3.85 mile/ 6.1 km event is suitable for all abilities and is open to all club members aged 15 years and above. 

* HOW DOES A HANDICAP WORK? Runners are awarded individual start times based on recent performances. The one with the most generous handicap will start first, with subsequent runners starting after at their allotted time. In this manner, everyone should finish the race at roughly the same time. For fairness, you must have run a minimum of 3 club events to win a handicap, otherwise you will compete as a guest.

Prizes will be awarded to the first 3 finishers, the 3 fastest open and the 3 fastest women. The first person across the line (non-guest) will take home the Thomas Cup**

** This ornate trophy was originally won by Sid Thomas on 23rd May 1889 in a 10 mile race at Old Trafford Manchester against arch-rival Will Parry of Salford Harriers. One of our club’s greatest runners, Sid was the convincing winner in 54:55. 

Entry is FREE but you must fill in this form @ https://forms.gle/uMxc9PSZa3QWXvAt5 by 23:59 on Wednesday 23 September to allow the club handicapper time to do their job.

Kindly note no on-the-day entries are permitted. Please also refer to our club's disclamer >

Course details (ONE lap approximately 3.85 miles/6.1 km):
Strava: https://www.strava.com/routes/3258019158507273340
Garmin: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/297660955
Jpeg: Thomas-Cup-Course-Map.jpg

Timings:

• 12.45pm: Numbers @ top of Sidmouth Woods https://what3words.com/hips.couple.spit ⬅️

• 1.30pm: Race starts with the first runner set off. Runners to follow after according to their handicapped start time.

• 2.30pm: Anticipated time all runners will come through.

• 3pm: Club photo, followed by clubhouse social. Details & booking to follow.

VOLUNTEERS: As always, we really need volunteers to help with marshalling, time-keeping & numbers. So if you’re not planning to run, please consider volunteering to help out. Duties are very light and it’s a fun evening, with lots of opportunity to cheer your friends along 👏

If you’re able to volunteer, for however long, please email coordinator@ranelagh-harriers.co.uk ⬅️