Machen Trail Races

Machen Trail Races

The event on 28 November 2026 offers two trail distances through woodland, common and ridgeway terrain around Machen in South Wales. The routes pass Rudry Common, Cefn Onn Country Park, Coed Craig Ruperra and, for the marathon, the top of Machen.

The routes feature wooded single track, open moor, streams, steep climbs and descents, exposed ridge sections and woodland trails. The half course is fully marked. The marathon requires self navigation with marshals at critical junctions.

Distances

• Half marathon about 14ish miles
• Marathon about 26ish miles

Medical cover and event marshals are provided. There is a compulsory kit check at registration and the organiser provides a full kit list; entries without required kit are not permitted. Every finisher receives a medal and trophies are awarded for 1st to 3rd male and female, plus first male and female veterans over 45.

Cut off arrangements favour steady progress rather than fast pace: the half marathon cut offs allow roughly 2.5 miles per hour. The marathon has an overall time limit equivalent to about 3.25 miles per hour.

The race base is Machen Welfare Ground, Machen CF83 8LA. There is parking at the venue and in Machen, toilets and showers are available. There are no train services to Machen so car sharing is recommended to reduce travel impact. Entry fees are listed as £40 for the half and £50 for the marathon. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.