Yr Wyddfa Ultra 50

Event Overview

The Yr Wyddfa Ultra 50 is a 45-mile (approximately 72 km) mountain ultra marathon in Snowdonia National Park (Eryri). The 8th edition is scheduled for a Saturday in early September. The start and finish location is the village green (Cae Llan) in Betws-y-Coed.

Course Details

The route includes around 3,254 metres of total ascent. The mountain trails pass notable landmarks including Tryfan, the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Glyder Fach, Glyder Fawr, Devil’s Kitchen, Llyn Idwal, Llyn Crafnant, and Llyn Geirionydd. Participants follow sections of the Snowdonia Slate Trail. The event uses live online GPS tracking and awards UTMB/ITRA Mountain Points. It is classified as a navigation event.

Logistics and Support

The entry fee is £119. There are 500 participant places available. The overall cut-off time is 20 hours, with specific cut-off times enforced at five checkpoints along the route. Checkpoints provide refreshments including cola, Tailwind, water, juice, sandwiches, salted potatoes, fruit, snacks, crisps, and chocolate. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. Medical or first aid support is present at each checkpoint.

Participant Requirements

Runners must be at least 20 years old on race day and must have previous ultramarathon and mountain experience. Applications are reviewed individually. Competent map and compass navigation skills are required for safety; reliance solely on GPS devices is not permitted. An extensive mandatory kit list must be carried at all times, including a waterproof coat, compass, survival bag, headtorch, and emergency rations. Random kit checks are conducted.

Awards and Series

Finishers receive a medal: the top 200 finishers get a gold medal, places 201-400 receive silver, and 401+ receive bronze. Bespoke trophies are awarded to the top three male and top three female finishers. The event is part of the GB Ultras 50 Mile Slam and Grand Slam series. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.