Grand Union Canal 145 Mile (GUCR)

Event overview

The Grand Union Canal Race is a non-stop 145 miles running event from Gas Street Basin in Birmingham to Little Venice in London. The route follows the fully waymarked Grand Union Canal Towpath and is held under UK Athletics rules with the permission of the Canal & River Trust. Runners must be at least 20 years old on race day. The field is limited to 100 starters, with most places allocated by a draw. Support crews are recommended, while up to 75 Unsupported places are available and are served by event checkpoints.

Course, support and rules

The course is described as relatively flat and easy to navigate, passing through urban and rural canal towpath sections. Aid stations provide snacks and drinks roughly every 10–15 miles; specific feed points are at miles 11, 22, 36, 54, 71, 85, 99, 120 and 133. There is no medical backup on course, but transport is provided for Unsupported runners who need to retire. Solo buddy runners on foot are allowed only from the Cosgrove Village Hall meeting point; pacing and walking poles are not permitted. Competitors must carry a mobile phone, whistle, survival blanket, maps and a cup for drinks, and must use a torch or headlamp and reflective clothing at night on road sections. Unsupported kit bags are limited in number and weight (maximum 15 kg). Entry fees are £75 for Supported and £115 for Unsupported, with a £2 surcharge if unattached to a UK club. The overall time limit for finishing is 45 hours. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.