Gower Coastal Trail Races

Event overview

The Gower Coastal Trail Races are three long-distance trail events on the Wales Coast Path in the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Distances offered:

• 50 miles (Gower Ultra 50)
• 34 miles (Gower Ultra Bach)
• 23 miles (Gower Trail Race)

The races follow coastal paths, beaches, coves, farmland and cliff tops around the Gower peninsula. The Ultra 50 is a full circumnavigation of the peninsula. The Ultra Bach covers the final 34 miles of the Ultra route, and the Trail Race covers the final 23 miles.

Route and navigation

The route passes locations such as Limeslade Bay, Mumbles Pier, Swansea Bay, Clyne Woods, Gowerton, the Loughor Estuary, Llanrhidian, Rhossili Bay and Worm’s Head, and continues east along Port Eynon, Oxwich, Three Cliffs, Caswell and Langland to Rams Tor. The course mainly follows the marked Wales Coast Path. Runners must self-navigate using a GPS trace, Coast Path signs and the provided map and instructions. Extra arrows or flags will mark sections off the Coast Path or where navigation is tricky. GPS tracking and electronic timing are provided for competitors.

Logistics and provisions

There are multiple manned checkpoints with refreshments and hot food. Provisional checkpoint locations and mileages are listed for the event, including Dunvant, Llanrhidian, Broughton, Rhossili, Port Eynon, Oxwich Bay, Three Cliffs and Southgate. A compulsory kit list must be carried. Coach transport is offered to some start points and some start locations have no parking. Entry age minimum is 18. Entry fees and what the entry includes are specified. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.