Grand Union Canal 145 Mile (GUCR)
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About the race
The Grand Union Canal 145 mile Race (GUCR) is a non-stop ultramarathon run under UK Athletics rules with permission from the Canal & River Trust. The 145 mile route follows the fully waymarked Grand Union Canal towpath from Gas Street Basin in Birmingham to Little Venice in London. The event is open to runners aged 20 or over. It is limited to 125 starters and the organisers can accommodate up to 100 Unsupported runners who rely on event checkpoints rather than a personal support crew.
Support crews are recommended and are welcomed along the route. The race uses a generous overall time limit of 45 hours and has checkpoint cut-off times that competitors must meet. Feed points for Unsupported runners are provided at miles 11, 22, 36, 54, 71, 85, 99, 120 and 133; drinks are available at these stops. There is no first aid or medical backup on course, but transport is provided for Unsupported runners who need to retire. Key rules include completion of the full distance on foot along the recognised towpath where possible, display of race number at all times, carrying a mobile phone and a survival blanket (minimum 140 cm x 200 cm), carrying the provided digital route at all times, and carrying a cup for aid stations.
Buddy runners on foot are allowed only from the 53 mile checkpoint and must not act as pacers or carry supplies for the competitor. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
