Grand Union Canal 145 Mile (GUCR)

Event overview

The Grand Union Canal Race (GUCR) is a non-stop 145-mile ultra run from Gas Street Basin in Birmingham to Little Venice in London along the fully waymarked Grand Union Canal towpath. The race is held under UK Athletics rules with the permission of the Canal & River Trust and is limited to 100 starters. Competitors must be at least 20 years old. The event is organised by Canalrace C.I.C. and offers up to 75 Unsupported places for runners who rely on event checkpoints rather than a personal crew. The overall time limit for the course is 45 hours.

Logistics and rules

Aid and support are provided at regular points on the route; there are specific feed points for Unsupported runners at 11, 22, 36, 54, 71, 85, 99, 120, and 133 miles, and drinks are available at these stops. Support crews are permitted and recommended; solo buddy runners on foot are allowed only from the meeting point at about 71 miles and must not act as pacers or carry supplies. Key requirements include completing the full distance on foot, carrying supplied maps, a mobile phone, a whistle, a survival blanket, and night lighting with spare batteries, and using a personal cup at aid stations. There is no medical backup on course, but transport is provided for Unsupported runners who retire. Entry fees are set by category: Supported £75 and Unsupported £115, with a small additional charge if not attached to a UK club. Refund rules apply depending on cancellation dates. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.