Black Beacon Mountain Races
Hay-on-Wye, United Kingdom • 30-1 Oct-Nov 2026
Black Beacon Mountain Races
The Black Beacon Mountain Races are a series of linear, long-distance mountain trail races that traverse the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) and Black Mountains National Parks. The event follows a south-to-north route through the mountain peaks of South Wales, passing features such as waterfalls and reservoirs.
Participants can choose from four distinct race distances:
- Black Beacon 100: A 100-mile ultramarathon with 7500m of ascent, traveling from Hay on Wye to Pontneddfechan and back.
- Black Beacon 50: A 50-mile ultramarathon with 3750m of ascent, running from Pontneddfechan to Hay on Wye.
- Black Beacon South (50k): A 50km trail race with 2200m of ascent, starting in Pontneddfechan and finishing in Llangynidir.
- Black Beacon North Trail Race: A 21-mile race with 1200m of ascent, running from Llangynidir to Hay on Wye.
The courses consist of mountain trails that are fast and not overly technical, with straightforward navigation. Support is provided by event staff and volunteers at several aid stations. The 100-mile race features 13 checkpoints, the 50-mile race has six, and both the 50km and 21-mile races provide three checkpoints each. Optional coach transport is available to move runners between the start and finish locations. The event has a minimum age requirement of 18 years. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.