The MTC Hafren Ultra
Hafren Forest, United Kingdom • 8 Jul 2026
The MTC Hafren Ultra (Day 1 of the Severn Challenge)
The MTC Hafren Ultra is a point-to-point ultra running event held on 8 July 2026 as Day 1 of the MTC Severn Challenge. The organiser lists the distance as 27 miles. The course has total ascent of 872 metres and total descent of 1,069 metres, and includes an altitude drop of about 1,600 ft from the river source stage. The published course record is 3:59:00 and this is the 10th edition.
Route, facilities and entry details
The route starts at Rhyd-y-benwch picnic area, follows a near four-mile mountain approach up Plynlimon to the source of the River Severn, then follows the Severn Path back towards Rhyd-y-benwch with two checkpoint stations along the way and a finish at Mid Wales Arts Centre, Maesmawr, Caersws. Checkpoint food is provided and entrants can select vegan or gluten-free options at registration; competitors with other dietary needs must supply labelled food bags for checkpoints. Events are now cup-free so runners should bring a reusable cup.
Entry is by paid Standard Solo registration (£80.00) and all payments are non-refundable. A deferral option to the next year is available for a fee of £15 if requested within the organiser’s published deadline. Competitors must meet the organiser’s age requirement, carry mandatory kit (backpack, OS Map 150, compass or GPS, whistle, mobile phone, basic first aid), and maintain a minimum average speed of 4.0 mph to meet mandatory checkpoint cut-offs. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.