The Winter Run to the Castle Ultra
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Event details
The event offers two race distances:
- 42 Mile Ultra (point to point from Aberdyfi to Harlech)
- Marathon (point to point from Aberdyfi to Barmouth)
The entry fee includes a fully recced course, food and drinks at four separate checkpoints, and a finishers medal. Entrants who return to the castle will receive a belt buckle instead of the traditional medal. Results are published online after the race. There is a 12-hour time limit for completion.
Compulsory kit requirements include a rucksack and bladder or bottle to carry a minimum of 1 litre of water, emergency food, a fully charged mobile phone, a waterproof jacket, a whistle, a map of the area (organisers provide a basic route map), a compass, a first aid kit, and a collapsible cup.
Route and logistics
Race headquarters is Aberdovey Village Hall, Aberdovey LL35 0NR. The start is about 200 yards from Aberdyfi train station and the main village car park. The course follows the coastal path via Tywyn, Fairbourne (including Fairbourne bridge), and Barmouth to Harlech, which is approximately 42 miles from Aberdyfi. The finish is about 200 yards from Harlech train station; trains provide a connection back and run roughly every 90-120 minutes, with the journey taking about an hour. One bag per runner will be transported from the start to the finish. The course is well signed and mixes beach, tracks, and pavements. OS Explorer maps OL23 and OL18 are recommended; organisers can also supply basic maps. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.