Beast Of The Beacons

Beast of the Beacons

Beast of the Beacons is a marked trail running event based at Gilestone Farm, Talybont on Usk in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The event offers three distances and marked routes with marshal support and multiple staffed checkpoints.

The route follows a mix of terrain including forest trails, ridges, reservoirs and river crossings. Named features on the course include Waun Rydd, Bryniau Glesision, Pontsticill Reservoir and Talybont Reservoir. Wildlife such as red kites may be visible and snow can still occur on the course.

Cut off times are set at eight hours for the 10- and 20-mile routes and 16 hours for the 40-mile route. The 40-mile option is a second lap using the 20-mile route in reverse.

Checkpoints are described as well stocked and catering for dietary requirements including vegan options; typical supplies include fruit, snacks, electrolytes and drinks. Facilities at headquarters include a camping field, toilets, on-site catering and a medical team, plus physiotherapy provision.

The event is canicross friendly; dogs must be at least 12 months old, fit to run and kept on the lead, with owners responsible for their animals. A full mandatory kit list is enforced at registration and includes waterproof jacket and trousers, race vest/pack, base layer, sufficient fluid capacity, emergency food, map or GPX file, charged mobile phone, first aid items, foil blanket, head torch and whistle. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.