Ultra in The Black Country

Event Overview

This is the ninth edition of the Ultra in the Black Country. The event takes place on Sunday, 29 March 2026. The start and finish location is Baggeridge Country Park, near Dudley in the West Midlands. Parking is available for a £3 charge.

Distances and Format

The event is based on a single 32-mile loop. This course is broken into four sections, allowing participation in different formats:

• Solo: One runner completes the full distance.
• Pairs: Two runners complete two legs each as a relay team.
• Team of four: Four runners complete one leg each as a relay team.

The Course

The route is described as a scenic urban loop through historic Black Country landscapes. The course is 97% traffic-free, using well-surfaced paths such as disused railway lines and canal towpaths. It includes a mandatory head torch section for the 2.7km Netherton Tunnel and passes through the shorter Coseley Tunnel.

The route passes through areas including Pensnett, Brockmoor, Tipton, and Wolverhampton, returning via Himley Hall and Wombourne to Baggeridge Country Park.

Event Details

The course will be fully waymarked, and a GPX file will be provided to runners. There are three checkpoints on the route, which also serve as relay changeover points. Each checkpoint offers water, energy drink, and assorted food. A finisher's medal and a bottle of Teme Valley Brewery beer are awarded at the finish. Refreshments can be purchased from the Baggeridge Team Room cafe on site.

Participation Requirements

The minimum age for participants is 18 years old on race day. The event has a 9-hour time limit to complete the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.