A Record-Breaking Weekend at Trailwalker 2026
The Ultimate Challenge
Trailwalker is the flagship event in The Gurkha Welfare Trust’s calendar, and this past weekend really showcased the grit, determination, and unwavering spirit of everyone who set foot onto the course.
On Saturday morning, over 1,300 participants stepped up to tackle the iconic 100km route across the South Downs Way. Setting off in waves from Queen Elizabeth Country Park, teams navigated steep climbs, rugged terrain, and an altitude gain equivalent to scaling both Mount Snowdon and Ben Nevis combined.
From high-speed military and civilian finishes before dusk to valiant overnight treks supported by dedicated crews at every checkpoint, participants dug deep to reach the finish line at Brighton Racecourse. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Queen’s Gurkha Signals, Brigade of Gurkhas, event volunteers, support crews, and every walker and runner on the trail, the event has already raised over £217,000 to transform the lives of Gurkha veterans and their communities.
Triumph and Record Books for The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment
A massive congratulations to this year’s winners, QOGLR Blue! They claimed victory in an astonishing 9 hours and 12 minutes, finishing nearly 40 minutes ahead of their nearest rivals. In doing so, they didn’t just take first place; they completely smashed the course record, setting the fastest time ever recorded on this route!
1 RGR Team Green came in second place, completing the course in just 9 hours and 50 minutes.
The third team were not far behind, and the 1315 AASR made it to the finish line in 9 hours and 52 minutes.
The fastest civilian team to charge through the finish line were Team TC, who completed the 100km in 12 hours and 43 minutes.
An event to remember
Energy was high at Queen Elizabeth Country Park on Friday night as Trailwalker 2026 kicked off. Teams checked in, picked up their event T-shirts, and headed straight to the annual Pasta Party to carb-load for the massive 100km journey ahead.
Well before dawn on Saturday morning, the first wave of teams gathered in the dark for the 6am start. Pushed forward by adrenaline and anticipation, all five waves were soon out on the course, with the final group setting off at 8am to the stirring sounds of the Gurkha Pipers.
Over the hours that followed, teams pushed east along the South Downs Way, tackling steep climbs and rugged trails. The fastest military and civilian teams set a phenomenal pace, crossing the finish line before Saturday’s sun had even set. For others, the journey continued long into the night, with relentless determination and invaluable support from their crews providing hot drinks, vital fuel, and the morale needed to keep moving forward.
A huge group of volunteers and proud supporters awaited at the finish line at Brighton Racecourse, cheering every team through. Finishers were then rewarded with a Trailwalker medal and, of course, the legendary Gurkha curry cooked up by QGS!
Download Official Event Photos
A phenomenal success
To all our 2026 Trailwalkers, what you have accomplished is nothing short of extraordinary! Pushing through 100km demands serious mental and physical strength. Whether you set a personal record or battled through every kilometre when exhaustion set in, taking on this iconic route is a massive achievement.
A massive thank you to the Queen’s Gurkha Signals, GWT staff, our selfless volunteers, and the brilliant support crews who kept everyone going every step of the way. You made Trailwalker 2026 an unforgettable success. Special thanks also to Queen Elizabeth Country Park and Brighton Racecourse for hosting us.
“That was, without a doubt, the hardest thing I’ve ever done. During the walk, I hated whoever had marked out the course. Surely the South Downs Way has some flat bits somewhere?!
But that’s what makes the challenge and during that walk up Brighton Racecourse, the hate turned to admiration and respect.
My team and I will never forget the experience.” Andrew, Team Continuum
Finally, to our participants: we are profoundly grateful for your dedication. You have raised over £217,000 for The Gurkha Welfare Trust, creating a lasting impact for Gurkha veterans and communities.
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