Black Beacon Mountain Races
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Black Beacon Mountain Races
The Black Beacon Mountain Races are a series of long mountain trail races crossing the Black Mountains and Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Parks from south to north. The event offers four distances with specified ascent and time limits.
- 100 miles with +7500m ascent and 42 hour time limit
- 50 miles with +3750m ascent and 24 hour time limit
- 50 km with +2200m ascent and 14 hour time limit
- 21 miles with +1200m ascent and 12 hour time limit
Routes include high ridgelines, forest "waterfall country", summits such as Pen y Fan and Corn Du, and finishes at village halls or Cusop Hall in Hay on Wye. Checkpoints are provided along each course: 13 for the 100 mile, 6 for the 50 mile, and 4 for the 50 km and 21 mile races; checkpoints supply refreshments, water and snacks. Drop bags are available for the 100 mile (two) and 50 mile (one) entrants.
Navigation and safety: the 50 mile, 50 km and 21 mile routes are marked at major junctions and require use of the published GPS trace and map. The 100 mile route is unmarked for the first 50 miles and must be followed by GPS trace for the full traverse. Competitors must carry compulsory kit and be able to look after themselves in mountain conditions. The entry package includes GPS files, tracking and timing, mountain safety teams, first aid cover, and event photography. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
