Beast Of The Beacons

Event Overview

The Beast of the Beacons takes place within the Brecon Beacons National Park, starting and finishing at Gilestone Farm in Talybont on Usk. The event offers three distinct distances over a course that includes a variety of terrain such as rocky paths, forest trails, river crossings, and significant climbs.

The following distances are available:

• 10 miles
• 20 miles
• 40 miles

Participants on the 40 mile route complete the 20 mile course twice, with the second lap run in the reverse direction. The event has established cut-off times of 8 hours for the shorter distances and 16 hours for the ultra distance. While the course is marked, the organizers do not use tape; instead, the route is supported by marshals.

Course Features

The route begins at Gilestone Farm and follows trails toward a reservoir and dam before ascending to Waun Rydd. Runners traverse ridges and descend toward Blaen y glyn, eventually crossing the Pontsticill reservoir and the Brecon Mountain Railway track at Dolygaer. The path includes a climb to Bryniau Glesision and a descent through forest trails near Talybont reservoir.

Logistics and Requirements

The event is cup-free, requiring participants to bring their own reusable containers. A mandatory kit list is enforced and includes a waterproof jacket and trousers, race vest, base layer, capacity for 1 to 2 liters of fluid, food, a map or GPX file, a telephone, hat and gloves, trail shoes, a first aid kit, foil blanket, head torch, and a whistle.

Facilities at the site include parking for a fee, camping, toilets, and physiotherapy services. Refreshments are provided at three refuel zones and at the finish line, with hot food specifically for those completing the ultra distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.