Dragon Coastal Races
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Event Overview
The Dragon Coastal Races are ultramarathons on July 18-19, 2026. They are three separate races held along the Wales Coast Path. All races finish at the Norwegian Church on Cardiff Bay Barrage.
Race Distances and Start Locations
There are three distances:
- Dragon 100: 100 miles from Rhossili Bay on the Gower coast.
- Dragon 50: 50 miles from Kenfig Sands Nature Reserve.
- Dragon 30: 30 miles from Dunraven Bay.
The Course
The 100-mile route begins on the Gower coast and travels east, passing Swansea Bay and moving into Afan Forest overnight. At dawn, the route goes through Margam Park before reaching the coast at Kenfig, where the 50-mile race starts. Both routes then pass Porthcawl and cross the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes. At Dunraven Bay, the 30-mile race joins. The final section for all races passes landmarks like Nash Point Lighthouse and Barry before finishing across the Cardiff Bay Barrage.
The trails are described as clear and non-technical. The route features beaches, sand dunes, cliffs, and forests. Approximate total ascent is 3400 meters for the 100-mile race, 1300 meters for the 50-mile, and 460 meters for the 30-mile.
Event Logistics
Transport buses are provided from the finish in Cardiff Bay to the respective race starts. Registration for each race is held at the Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay on the morning of the event, with additional registration available at the start locations.
Checkpoints provide snacks and drinks. There are 12 checkpoints for the 100-mile race, 7 for the 50-mile, and 4 for the 30-mile. GPS trackers are fitted to runners. The route is marked with signs, tape, and arrows, with extra markings for sections off the main coast path.
Entry and Requirements
Entry fees are £160 for the 100-mile race, £95 for the 50-mile, and £55 for the 30-mile. Transport is an additional cost. The entry includes a finisher's buckle for the 100-mile race and medals for the 50-mile and 30-mile races, along with GPS tracking, post-event food, and race photos.
A compulsory kit list must be carried by all runners. Time limits are 36 hours for the 100-mile race, 16.5 hours for the 50-mile, and 14 hours for the 30-mile race. All courses close at midnight on Sunday. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
