The Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) is excited to announce that Race Across the UK (RATUK) is back for 2026 – the ultimate endurance challenge for teams looking for adventure while raising money to support Naval families.
From 6–9 October 2026, teams of two will race from Dartmouth to Inverness, travelling the length of the UK with no cars, no planes and no map apps. Armed only with a paper map, their wits and what they can carry on their backs, teams will need teamwork, determination and a sense of adventure to reach each checkpoint and cross the finish line.
Sign-ups open on 26 December, with teams encouraged to raise £3,000. Every pound raised will make a real difference to Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel and their families, helping those facing injury, illness, mental health challenges or financial difficulties. Donations support vital services, from recovery programmes and wellbeing initiatives to family support and practical assistance, ensuring Naval personnel and their loved ones are valued and supported for life.
Last year’s event brought together teams from across the UK, raising vital funds and creating an unforgettable experience for all involved. Participants praised not just the challenge itself, but the sense of camaraderie and community it fostered along the way.
Funds raised through Race Across the UK help support people like Aimee, a serving Logistics Officer in the Royal Navy. Due to health issues, Aimee was introduced to the Royal Navy Recovery Pathway (RNRP) – a coordinated programme of support designed for Service personnel managing health-related challenges. Through her Individual Recovery Programme, Aimee took part in a range of fully funded, recovery-focused experiences supported by RNRMC and other military charities, helping to improve her physical health, emotional resilience and mental wellbeing.
Beyond the activities themselves, these experiences offered Aimee the opportunity to connect with others in similar situations, rediscover a sense of purpose and rebuild her confidence.
Aimee said:
“The early recovery courses I attended brought me both joy and a sense of belonging during a difficult period when a lot of my time was spent alone at home away from the everyday hustle and bustle of the Royal Navy. I made lifelong friends, and the courses gave me a sense of purpose and the opportunity to try new and exciting things. When I attend the courses now, not only do they bring me joy but they really give me the time and space to reflect on how far I have come on my own recovery journey. I am also now able to help others attending them who are at earlier stages of their recovery journeys by providing first-hand experience and insight into the Recovery Pathway.”
Places for Race Across the UK 2026 are limited, and interested teams are encouraged to sign up early to secure their spot. By taking part, participants can push themselves physically and mentally, while raising essential funds to support the Naval community – making a real difference to the lives of those who serve and their families.
Registration opens on 26 December 2025.
For more information or to sign up, visit: https://fundraising.rnrmc.org.uk/event/race-across-the-uk/home
