Saturn Running - Cwmdare

Event overview

The Nearly But Not Quite London Marathon - Wales is organised by Saturn Too Limited (a franchise partner of Saturn Running). The next race date is 26/04/2026 at Dare Valley Country Park, Aberdare, CF44 7PS. A member entry price of £22.00 is available; members are guaranteed entry and receive a mini-me medal pin at each event they attend.

This is a 7 hour Time Challenge that allows participants to choose their distance. The minimum distance to be an official finisher is 3 km. A full lap is stated as 7 km (4.37 miles) but may change to a 3.28 mile loop depending on course conditions. Distance examples: 3 laps for a half marathon, 6 laps for a marathon, 7 or more laps for an ultra. A 50 km distance is also available. The lap includes a 3 km and 5 km turn point for younger runners to meet UK Athletics age rules.

Course, services and rules

The course runs on well maintained footpaths around Dare Valley Country Park with views of the surrounding countryside. The route is suitable for a road trainer. There is an aid and drinks table at the start/finish of each lap offering drinks, savoury and sweet snacks, vegan options, and ice cream for finishers. Finishers who complete at least 3 km receive a themed medal; distance pins are awarded for half-marathon, mega-half, marathon, 50 km and ultra distances and are attached to the medal ribbon. Goody bags are provided, with a vegan option available.

Facilities include toilets and a cafe by race HQ; there are no separate changing rooms or showers. Free parking is available. Number pick up is on race day at registration. A bag drop area is provided but it is not secure. Bone conducting headphones only are allowed. Events use public footpaths, so runners should be considerate of other users. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.