Country to Capital Ultra Marathon

Country to Capital Ultra

The Country to Capital Ultra is a long-distance running event covering 43 miles from Wendover to Little Venice in London. It is presented as the opener for the ultra running season and serves as the first race in the Grand Slam series of four ultra marathons totaling over 180 miles.

The route starts in Buckinghamshire countryside and follows cross-country trails, roads and the Grand Union Canal towpath into central London. Terrain breakdown in the course description lists about 11 miles of cross-country trails, 12.1 miles of roads and paths, and 20 miles of canal towpath, with total elevation changes of approximately +1375 ft and -1720 ft. The route is waymarked but navigation is required.

Real-time tracking is provided via a GPS tracker using the Geo Tracks app with updates every 10 seconds; friends and family can follow progress through the tracking app. There are five checkpoints offering water, snacks and Go Beyond fruit cake. Finishers receive drinks at the finish and a post-race gathering at the Bridge House Pub.

Prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers; all finishers receive a medal and Go Beyond merchandise. Additional details include a baggage transfer for a single carry-on-sized bag, an over-18 age requirement, a specified mandatory kit list including a charged phone, power bank, survival blanket and waterproof jacket, and shoe guidance that advises trail shoes with optional road shoes for the canal section. Training support via the Runna App and a trainer recycling option are noted. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.