Celtic Trail Races

Celtic Trail Races

The Celtic Trail Races are winter trail events that run through Afan Forest, the Rhigos mountain range and the Coed Morgannwg Way, finishing at Dare Valley Country Park in Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taff. Routes include sharp climbs, long flowing descents, river crossings and remote single track on trails described as fast and runnable. Participants pass reservoirs, ancient woodland, wind turbines and viewpoints across the Brecon Beacons National Park. Routes are fully marked with arrows, flags and tape; maps and GPX files are supplied and competitors are advised to download the current GPX because there are course changes from previous years.

Race distances

• Celtic Ultra - 34 miles, 5,850 ft ascent, circular from Dare Valley Park
• Celtic Trail Marathon - 26 miles, 4,200 ft ascent, circular from Dare Valley Park
• Celtic Trail Half Marathon - 13 miles, 2,200 ft ascent, linear from Resolven to Dare Valley Park

There are manned checkpoints providing water, fruit, sweets, biscuits and crisps: seven on the Ultra, six on the Marathon and three on the Half. The Half Marathon is a linear route and coach transport is available at extra cost with a small finish bag allowance of 10 litres; the Ultra and Marathon are circular and do not require transfers. Each course has a published time limit and a compulsory kit list that must be carried. Onsite accommodation is available at Dare Valley Country Park. Entry fees include timing, GPS tracking, event photographs, checkpoint refreshments and land permits. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.