WHAT MAKES THE GAUNTLET DIFFERENT?
ABOUT
The Gauntlet combines running and functional fitness stations in equal measure – testing your strength, endurance, and determination from start to finish. Welcoming to all abilities, there’s no time restriction and a category for everyone, whether you’re going solo or with a partner.
The Pairs divisions are designed so that both athletes have to work for each other and together to complete the race. Unlike other events where one partner can carry all the stations and the other just runs, The Gauntlet Pairs format is built to make sure both athletes are genuinely contributing throughout.
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The Gauntlet is a competition built on fairness. Every athlete performs the same movements, to the same standards, judged the same way. That’s what makes the results mean something.
Before you race, take the time to read through the movement standards and rulebook. Know what’s expected at each station, understand the penalties, and arrive on race day confident and prepared.
Founded in Glasgow in 2023, The Gauntlet was born out of a desire to do something different. The founders felt existing hybrid races weren’t serving the wider fitness community – most followed the same run, station, run, station formula with running always taking centre stage. They wanted to build something where the stations carried equal importance, where the ergs, the sleds, and the functional movements weren’t just obstacles between runs – they were the race.
Since then it has grown rapidly, expanding across the UK and welcoming competitors from all over. Built around inclusivity and community, with no time restrictions, participants are encouraged to take on the challenge at their own pace – supported by fellow competitors, volunteers, and spectators every step of the way.
COMPETE
Whether you’re chasing the podium or taking on your first event, there’s a start line waiting for you. Step in, test yourself, and see what you’re capable of.
Live scores and final results are published on chiprace.co.uk. Penalties may be added up to 48 hours after an event ends. Rankings run fastest to slowest within each division and age category.
VOLUNTEER
The Gauntlet is built by its community – and that includes the incredible people who make it happen behind the scenes. If you want to be part of the action without racing, volunteering is your way in. We’d love to have you.
You’ll be at the heart of the competition, managing your assigned station and making sure every rep counts. Full briefings are provided before race day so you’ll arrive confident and prepared.
No event happens without the people who build it. You’ll be setting up the arena and race track before the athletes arrive – a physical, hands-on role involving heavy equipment. Perfect if you love rolling your sleeves up and being part of a hardworking crew.
First impressions matter, and our Front of House team sets the tone for the entire event. You’ll be welcoming athletes and spectators, registering participants, and scanning QR codes. If you’re friendly, organised, and love people – this one’s for you.
The backbone of a smooth race day. You’ll either be guiding athletes and spectators at the entrance or managing designated crossing points out on the track. Right in the middle of the atmosphere, keeping everything running smoothly.
Want to put your first aid experience to good use at one of the most exciting fitness events in the country? Get in touch and include your relevant experience and credentials.
Got an eye for a great shot? We’re looking for photographers and videographers to help capture the energy of race day. Get in touch with details of your experience and any work you’d like to share.
WHAT DO YOU GET?
- All meals and drinks (including coffee) covered for the full day
- Every volunteer receives a Gauntlet t-shirt for helping on one day, or a Gauntlet hoody if you help across both days
- Volunteer one day – get 50% off a solo race ticket and guaranteed entry to any race (£50)
- Volunteer two days – get a free solo race ticket or 50% off a pairs ticket and guaranteed entry to any race (£100)
FAQs
The Gauntlet is a fitness race built for the everyday athlete. Expect a genuine mix of running and stations – not weighted towards one or the other – designed to test your full athleticism from start to finish. Born in Glasgow in 2023, it’s grown into one of the most in-demand fitness race events in the country.
The Gauntlet alternates between runs and functional fitness stations, with the stations carrying equal importance to the running. Full details on the format and movement standards can be found on our Race Format page.
No. There is no cut-off time at The Gauntlet. Whether you’re chasing the podium or completing it for the first time, every finisher matters. Race at your own pace.
No, headphones are not permitted during the race. This is to ensure all athletes can hear race officials and any important announcements throughout the course. Our banging tunes will keep you motivated!
Yes – you’re welcome to carry water or energy gels on your person from the start of the race. There will also be water stations available along the course.
This is no problem at all. Speak to our First Aid team on the day or email us in advance and we will work with you to get the most out of your race. Please note, any adaptations will exclude you from a podium placing, but it will allow you to complete your race safely and receive a finish time.
Our Official Gauntlet Rulebook containing all of the rules, movement standards and penalty protocols can be found in our ‘Race Rules’ section.
Our Official Gauntlet Rulebook containing all of the rules, movement standards and penalty protocols can be found in our ‘Race Rules’ section.
Everyone worries about the hurdles and then ends up loving them! They are roughly 37 inches in height. There is always at least one hurdle in the warm up area to have a go before your race.
We pride ourselves in giving our athletes space to race and there are usually only 12 solos/pairs in each wave.
Pregnant racers are welcome to participate at their own discretion. If you would like to adapt any movements, please contact us in advance and speak to our first aid/physio team prior to your race on the day. Please note, any adaptations will exclude you from a podium placing, but it will allow you to complete your race safely and receive a finish time.
The Gauntlet offers Solo and Doubles categories, with Male, Female, and Mixed Doubles options available. Whether you’re competing individually or want to take on the challenge with a partner, there’s a category for you.
Each division (Male, Female, and Mixed Doubles) is split into the following age groups: 16–29, 30–39, 40–49, and 50+.
Your age is calculated on the day of the event. For Doubles, the average age of both athletes determines the team’s category. Averages are always rounded down to the nearest whole number. For example: Athlete A is 39, Athlete B is 40 – Average = 39.5, rounds down to 39 – Team competes in 30–39.
Rankings are awarded within each division and age category. Podiums are given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place across every age category for Male, Female, and Mixed Doubles. Age categories may be merged at the discretion of the organisers if a category has a limited number of competitors.
Absolutely. The Gauntlet was built with the everyday athlete in mind. You don’t need to be an elite competitor to toe the start line — you just need to show up and be willing to push yourself. The community will take care of the rest.
Head to the event page for your chosen location and select your category.
You’ll receive your heat time around two weeks before the event. Keep an eye on your inbox as it gets closer to race day.
You will need your QR code from your registration confirmation email or Competition Corner account. If you have entered as a pair, there is only 1 QR code – make sure to screenshot it and send it to your partner if you are arriving separately. You will also need some form of ID.
Details on ticket transfers and name changes will be outlined at the point of purchase. Please contact us directly if you have any issues.
You can do this on your Competition Corner account. Log in and click on ‘Dashboard’. Select the event and scroll until you find the 3 dots beside ‘Leaderboard’. You can now select ‘Manage registration’, the ‘Teammates’ tab and click ‘Add a teammate’.
We understand injuries happen and things can change and we try our best to accommodate this. If possible, all changes should be made up to a week before the event. Should anything else arise after that please contact us and we will do our best to help.
Yes. There will be the option on the registration page to add your name to a waitlist if the category you want to enter is sold out. We use this list to contact people via email should any spaces arise.
Yes – spectator tickets are available to purchase separately. If your event is a two-day event, your athlete race ticket will also act as your spectator ticket, giving you access to watch on the day you’re not racing.
Yes. If you or someone attending has specific accessibility requirements, please get in touch with us ahead of the event and we’ll do everything we can to make sure the experience works for everyone.
We recommend arriving at least 60 minutes before your heat time. This gives you enough time to check in, collect your timing chip, and warm up properly before you race.
There is no bag drop at The Gauntlet – at some locations lockers may be available. Please plan accordingly and avoid bringing valuables you can’t keep on your person during the race.
Yes. You’ll be issued a timing chip at check-in on race day, giving you accurate results across the entire course. For pairs, it will be the team captain that receives a timing chip.
Wear whatever you train in. Comfortable training kit, supportive footwear suitable for both running and functional movements, and anything else that helps you perform at your best.
Yes. There will be trained staff and medical support available throughout the event. If you need assistance at any point during the race, our team will be on hand to help.
Yes – race photography will be available at The Gauntlet. Details on how to access your photos will be shared closer to the event.
Absolutely. We want The Gauntlet to be accessible to everyone. If you have any specific needs, please get in touch with us ahead of the event and we’ll do everything we can to make sure your experience is a great one.
We have a variety of merchandise available at each of our events but if you can’t wait for that, click here to visit The Gauntlet Shop.
You can contact us through our website enquiry form. Alternatively drop us an email at info@theofficialgauntlet.com











