Vale Coastal Races

Vale Coastal Trail Races

The event offers three point-to-point coastal trail races along the Wales Coast Path on the Vale of Glamorgan coastline. Routes run largely on trail and clifftops, pass a chain of beaches, and include a long section along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast known for dramatic cliffs, rock formations, secluded coves, and rolling countryside.

Distances:

• 32.5 miles Vale Ultra, follows the entire Vale of Glamorgan Coast Path.
• 18.5 miles Vale Trail, joins the Ultra route at Porthkerry shoreline.
• 10 miles Vale Trail 10, follows the final 10 miles of the longer routes.

All races converge to finish together at Ogmore-by-Sea Village Hall, ascending the final climb locally called the Hill of Doom. The route is self-navigated but follows the well signposted Wales Coast Path; competitors receive a marked map, detailed route notes, and organisers place extra markers at tricky junctions.

Support and logistics include manned checkpoints (six for the Ultra, four for the 18.5, two for the 10) offering water, energy drinks, squash, sweets, biscuits, oranges, and crisps. The race is linear; parking is at Ogmore-by-Sea Rivermouth Car Park (CF32 0PR) with coach transport options to start locations. Drop bags left at the start are transported to the finish. A compulsory kit list must be carried and may vary with conditions.

Entry fees include electronic timing, checkpoints, a finisher medal, emergency first aid cover, and free race photographs. The event is in its 11th year and entry spaces are limited per distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.