A Candidate Event is a trail race that has been invited into the One Hundred Candidate Event Program and is undergoing formal evaluation for potential inclusion in the One Hundred Trail Series.

Candidate status recognises events that align with the values and standards of the Series but are still progressing through a structured review process before any decision about full inclusion is made.

Candidate status indicates that an event is being evaluated for potential inclusion, but it is not yet a full Series event.

The designation reflects a period of assessment and collaboration between the event organiser and the One Hundred team.

Yes. Candidate Events carry 50% of One Hundred World Championship ranking points, relative to official One Hundred World Championship events.

Events cannot simply apply to join the Series.

Instead, races may submit an Expression of Interest, after which the One Hundred team reviews factors such as:

• The organiser’s track record

• The history and credibility of the event

• Alignment with the ethos of the Series

• Geographic and calendar fit within the global trail ecosystem

• Commitment to meeting One Hundred standards

Selected events may then receive an invitation to become a Candidate Event.

During candidacy, the event enters a structured evaluation period that typically includes:

• Alignment with One Hundred operational and safety standards

• Integration of Candidate Event branding and communication guidelines

• Event delivery and real-world assessment during race edition

• Post-event review and evaluation

This process allows the Series to understand how the race operates in practice while supporting organisers in developing best-practice standards.

Candidate status is time-bound, typically covering a single event edition or a defined evaluation period.

After the event has been delivered and reviewed, One Hundred will determine the next step for the race.

Following the evaluation process, several outcomes are possible:

• Progression to Full One Hundred Event status

• Continuation as a Candidate Event with further development

• Conclusion of candidacy if the event is not aligned with the Series

The decision considers operational standards as well as the long-term structure and balance of the Series.

Candidate Events are reviewed across several core areas that define the One Hundred experience, including:

• Event Operations – planning, logistics, and race delivery

• Safety & Risk Management – medical planning, emergency response, and athlete safety

• Course Design & Environmental Stewardship – route integrity and sustainability

• Athlete Experience – registration, race support, and post-race services

• Systems & Data – timing, results, and operational reporting

• Brand & Storytelling – alignment with the identity of the Series

• Community & Land Partnerships – relationships with local communities and land managers

These areas ensure that events operate responsibly and deliver a consistent athlete experience across the Series.

For athletes, Candidate status signals that the race is part of the One Hundred evaluation pathway and is working towards potential inclusion in the global Series.

The event continues to be organised and delivered by its local race operator while aligning with the standards and expectations of the One Hundred Trail ecosystem.

In some cases, an event may continue within the Candidate Program if further development is required or if the Series wishes to observe additional editions of the race.

Candidate status is not permanent and remains subject to ongoing evaluation.

The Candidate Program ensures that the Series grows carefully and responsibly, maintaining consistent standards across events worldwide.

By assessing races over time rather than adding them immediately, the Series can:

• Protect the quality and credibility of the championship

• Support race organisers in strengthening their events

Ensure athletes experience the same high standards across the global calendar.