Brackla Harriers' Merthyr Mawr Christmas Pudding Race
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Brackla Harriers Merthyr Mawr Christmas Pudding Race
The Brackla Harriers Merthyr Mawr Christmas Pudding Race is a regular event in the South Wales running calendar held on a Sunday in early December, tide dependent. In recent years the race has averaged over 700 entrants aged 18 and over.
The course covers just over 6 miles and takes in a variety of terrain, including the feature known as "the big dipper", Europe’s second highest sand dune. There is a mulled wine and mince pie stop roughly halfway through the route.
The event attracts club athletes in vests and runners in festive fancy dress. Brackla Harriers organise the race with more than 80 club marshalls involved in delivery and safety.
Sponsors for the event include JCP Solicitors, Hunters Estate Agents Bridgend, Brecon Carreg Water, Tesco Extra Bridgend and One2One Therapy. Support and permissions come from local authorities, residents of Merthyr Mawr Estate, Merthyr Mawr Estate landowners, South Wales Police and West Beacons Mountain Rescue.
Charitable fundraising is part of the event. Runners who opt not to receive a Christmas pudding at the finish have the equivalent amount donated to Llamau, supported by JCP Solicitors. Past donations have benefited organisations such as BikeAbility Wales, Action for Children Bridgend, Macmillan Cancer Support and Bridgend Community Bereavement Support.
Event date for 2026 is Sunday 13 December 2026 and entries open Tuesday 13 October 2026 at 20:00. The event base is Bridgend Tennis, Squash and Bowls Club, Church Street, Bridgend CF31 3AZ. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
