Vale Coastal Races

Vale Coastal Races 2026

The Vale Coastal Races celebrate their 11th year in 2026, offering three distinct trail running distances along the rugged coastline of the Vale of Glamorgan. Each course follows the Wales Coast Path, taking participants past clifftops, rocky formations, and secluded coves.

The event offers three point-to-point race distances:

• 32.5 miles (Ultra): Starts from Penarth Pier and covers the entire Vale of Glamorgan Coast Path, passing 19 beaches.
• 18.5 miles (Mini Ultra): Begins at Porthkerry Park in Barry, joining the coastal route beneath the viaduct.
• 10 miles: Starts at Llantwit Major Beach and follows the final section of the longer courses.

All participants finish at Ogmore-by-Sea Village Hall after a final ascent known as the 'Hill of Doom'. The routes are self-navigated but remain close to the sea following the well-signposted Wales Coast Path markers. Runners also receive a marked map and detailed route notes, and additional flags are placed at junctions where the course leaves the path.

The event provides manned checkpoints offering water, energy drinks, and various snacks. For the 32.5 miles distance, there are 6 checkpoints; the 18.5 miles race has 4, and the 10 miles race has 2. Participants must carry a compulsory kit, and a drop bag service is available to transport belongings from the start lines to the finish. As these are linear routes, optional event buses are available to transport runners from the finish area parking at Ogmore-by-Sea to their respective starting points. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.