BCNS 24h Challenge 2026

The BCN Challenge returns for 2026!

Start anywhere on the Birmingham Canal Navigations and take any route you like to Titford Pumphouse.

Earn points for locks, miles, decoration and strange trivia questions!

Chase bonus photos and get stuck in places you'd never have gone to otherwise!

Make a detailed plan and tear it up as you go along!

There are 30 hours between the start and end times, with 6 hours of rest to be taken whenever you wish. This makes it viable to enter with a hire boat (or if you dislike boating in the dark) and some usually appear.

The scoring attempts to compensate for length, draught, towing a butty etc. so all boats are welcome and should be in with a chance.

It's not all about winning - you can go all-out for every point, or potter about visiting interesting places and get a good night's sleep.

The finish coincides with the BCNS May Rally where beer, commiserations and tall stories will be available.

The 2026 rules aren't out yet but as an example the 2024 rules can be found at

https://bcnsociety.com/bcns-marathon-challenge/

To register your interest email Jon at bcnschallenge@gmail.com

Entry fee is likely to be ~£25, to include a plaque.