The MTC Hafren Ultra

The MTC Hafren Ultra

The MTC Hafren Ultra is a point to point ultra marathon held as Day 1 of the MTC Severn Challenge. The course is listed as 27 miles with 872 m of ascent and 1,069 m of descent. This is the 10th edition and the course record is 3:59:00.

The route begins at Rhyd-y-benwch picnic area and includes a near four mile mountain trek up Plynlimon to the source of the River Severn. Plynlimon is noted for splattered and concealed bogs and competitors are advised to keep to the designated routes. A race marshal will be positioned at the source before runners follow the Severn path back toward Rhyd-y-benwch, now checkpoint one, then on to a second checkpoint and the finish at Mid Wales Arts Centre in Caersws. The route features an altitude drop of about 1,600 ft from the source and varied countryside.

Logistics and services include two staffed checkpoints with vegan and gluten free food options, the ability to provide labelled personal food bags at registration, and a cup free policy so competitors must bring a reuseable cup. All finishers receive a bespoke finishers medal and runners are issued an MTC head visor at the start. Trophies are presented to the first male and first female finishers.

Navigation files are recommended because the Severn Path can be overgrown. Competitors must arrange their own travel for the point to point format. A minimum average pace of 4.0 miles per hour is enforced and mandatory kit includes a backpack, Ordnance Survey Map 150, compass or GPS device, whistle, mobile phone, and a basic first aid kit. Entry fee is £80 and payments are non refundable; a deferral option is available for a fee within a set period. Entrants must be at least 20 years old on the race day. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.