Canalathon Ultra

Event overview

The Canalathon-Ultra Running Festival is a running event on 22 March 2026 based at Sowerby Bridge Cricket Club, Walton Street, Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire (HX6 1AN). It takes place along the Rochdale Canal and uses mainly canal towpaths with minimal elevation. The organiser is Qswim Adventure (T/A Uswim Adventure Limited).

Distances

• 100 km
• 50 km
• Half Marathon
• 10 km

Course details and facilities

The 100 km is an out-and-back course from Sowerby Bridge along maintained canal towpaths. The 50 km runs the full length of the Rochdale Canal, starting at Ancoats and finishing in Sowerby Bridge. The half marathon starts near The Summit, Todmorden, and finishes at Sowerby Bridge. The 10 km starts and finishes in Sowerby Bridge. Surfaces are mainly hard and dry; trail running shoes are recommended. Race headquarters and all finishes are at Sowerby Bridge Cricket Club.

Event features include chip timing, marshalled and signed courses, transport option for 50 km and half marathon runners from Sowerby Bridge, free parking, on-course portaloo facilities, changing and showers, mobile first aid and sweepers, aid stations with savoury and sweet options plus drinks (participants are asked to bring their own cup or bottle), goody bags, bespoke medals, trophies and prizes, post-race hot food options and photographs.

Entry and age rules

Entries open 2 April 2025 and close 15 March 2026. Minimum entry age is 16. Entry fees listed for 22 March 2026 are: 100 km £90 (also a 4-person relay £120), 50 km £60, half marathon £45 and 10 km £25. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.