The Doko Challenge Returns!

Following the success of last year’s race, the famous Doko Challenge returns in 2026. Places are sure to be in demand and competition will be fierce!

This unique event sees participants running in the footsteps of the ‘Bravest of the Brave’. Based on a pivotal part of the Gurkha selection process, we challenge participants to take on a 5km cross-country course with a weighted Nepali Doko basket strapped to their back.

Enter Now!

The Doko North – Roundhay Park, Leeds – Sunday 31 May 2026 10.30am

Register for Doko North

Event Information

11:00 Register and collect your Doko basket and sandbag with your chosen weight
11:45 Welcome & warm-up activity
12:00 Race begins. Collect your T-shirt and medal at the finish
13:30 Finishers group photo

The route is a single lap, starting on a downhill then following around Upper Lake and Waterloo Lake.

View the route map

Download the GPX file for your phone or smart watch

The Doko South – Wimbledon Common, London – Sunday 14 June 2026 11.00am

Register for Doko South

What is a Doko?

A traditional Nepalese conical-shaped basket, usually hand-woven from bamboo, fitted with shoulder straps and a ‘namlo’ (head strap) to support the load.  The baskets are used to carry a whole host of things, from clothing to bricks!

A Historic Challenge

Every British Army Gurkha soldier will be familiar with the concept of the ‘Doko Race’.  During the world-renowned annual Gurkha recruitment drive, the aspiring recruits are tasked with ascending a gruelling course in the foothills of the Himalayas carrying a ‘Doko’ loaded with 25kg of sand.  They must complete the course within 46 minutes in order to proceed through to the next round of selection.

Our Doko Race

Based on the traditional exercise, we have mapped out a cross-country course in Leeds and London.  We challenge you to complete the 5km route carrying a Doko basket weighted with 5kg, 10kg or 15kg.  You can run, jog, or walk, but those looking to push themselves can aim to beat the Gurkha recruitment time of 46 minutes, or even last year’s fastest time of 19 minutes 30 seconds!  Regardless of your time, a coveted Doko Challenge medal and t-shirt awaits at the finish line.

Supporting Gurkha veterans and widows in Nepal

Alongside keeping fit and challenging yourself, you can take great pride in raising money to support our team in Nepal, keeping our Gurkha veterans and widows safe and giving them the means to live with dignity.  We suggest you set a fundraising target of £150.  Your online fundraising page will be created automatically when you register, and we will be on hand throughout to answer any queries you may have.

Additional Information

All participants must be 18 years of age or above on the race day.  There is no maximum age limit.