After last year's sell-out Doko Challenge South in Wimbledon, we are bringing our infamous event to the North. 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.
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 North Race
Based on the traditional exercise, we have mapped out an undulating, cross-country course through the grounds of Greystoke Castle. On Sunday 8 May 2022, 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 21 minutes 18 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.
registrations are not available
The event is closed.
All participants must be 18 years of age or above on the race day. There is no maximum age limit.
The registration deadline is Midnight on Sunday 1 May. We reserve the right to close registration early if all places are filled. Event timings and all other information will be available closer to the event. Full details will be emailed to race participants in advance.
This event will strictly abide by any COVID-19 Government Guidelines in place at the time of the race. The safety and wellbeing of our supporters is our top priority. If you have any queries or concerns, please contact Keta at [email protected].
We are delighted to be hosting two Doko Challenge events in 2022 – if Penrith isn’t for you, please take a look at our South Challenge, taking place on Sunday 12th June in Wimbledon.