Beast Of The Blacks

Beast of the Blacks

The Beast of the Blacks is a trail running challenge set in the Black Mountains of Wales. It takes place in Crickhowell, Powys. The event offers three distances:

• 11 miles (17 km)
• 20 miles (32.5 km)
• 40 miles (65 km)

The route features forest trails, mountain tops, river crossings, and views of ancient churches. Participants may see wildlife such as red kites. The 40-mile event consists of a reversed loop of the 20-mile course. The course is marked, and marshals provide support.

The event is canicross-friendly. Dogs must be at least 12 months old, fit to run, and kept on a lead. Canicross participants are not eligible for trophies.

Checkpoints provide food and drink, catering to various dietary requirements. Post-race refreshments include homemade cake and sandwiches. A medical team is present.

Participation requires carrying mandatory kit, including a waterproof jacket and trousers, a race vest or pack, a base layer, capacity for 1 litre of fluid, emergency food, a map or downloaded GPX file, a charged mobile phone (for the 40-mile distance), a hat and gloves, appropriate footwear, a first aid kit, a foil blanket, a reusable cup, and a head torch with a whistle. Kit checks are conducted at registration.

Parking is available for a £5 fee. Prizes include handcrafted trophies for the top three finishers and for the first male and female veteran over 50. A separate canicross trophy is awarded. A photography competition offers a free entry to a future event.

Cut-off times are 5 hours for the 11-mile distance, 8 hours for the 20-mile distance, and 16 hours for the 40-mile distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.