100km over Pen-y-Fan through the Brecon Beacons — a Western States qualifier by application
Other trail races within 193 miles
Starting near Talybont-on-Usk and finishing at Llangadog RFC, this 100km route traces the official Beacons Way National Trail through the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Runners gain 3,178m of ascent crossing the summit of Pen-y-Fan — South Wales' highest peak at 886m — before navigating the wild and remote Carmarthen Fan range. Self-navigation with paper maps and compass is mandatory; pacers are not permitted. A Western States 2027 qualifying race for finishers within 21 hours. Entry is by application. Part of the GB Ultras 50 Mile Slam and Grand Slam.
Some ultra experience recommended
Abergavenny, Wales, United KingdomJuly 25, 2026
Must complete a 50 Mile race or longer within the qualification window
Entry is by application. Participants must have completed at least a 50-mile ultramarathon under race conditions, have experience in mountainous terrain, and be competent at self-navigation using map and compass. Minimum age 20 on race day. Experience details are verified by the event team.
| Location | km | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
Start Start | 0.0 | 124 m |
Checkpoint 1 - Talybont Aid Station | 12.1 | 416 m |
Checkpoint 2 - Storey Arms Aid Station | 22.5 | 438 m |
Checkpoint 3 - Sarn Helen Aid Station | 33.8 | 351 m |
Checkpoint 4 - Penwyllt Aid Station | 44.3 | 340 m |
Checkpoint 5 - Llandeusant Aid Station | 62.0 | 262 m |
Checkpoint 6 - Mountain View Aid Station | 73.1 | 478 m |
Finish Finish | 99.8 | 57 m |
Sign in to see cutoffs, crew access, drop bags, and services for every aid station.
The 100km starts at noon and runners will experience the full range of summer mountain conditions in Wales. Afternoon temperatures at valley level can reach 18–22°C, but the high ridges above 600m are noticeably cooler with wind chill. Night sections through the Carmarthen Fans are typically 8–14°C with frequent rain and low cloud. Mandatory waterproofs are strictly enforced. The Brecon Beacons are among the wettest upland areas in England and Wales, and conditions on exposed ground can deteriorate quickly regardless of the morning forecast.
Welsh mountain weather changes rapidly. Conditions above 600m can deteriorate from clear to heavy rain and low cloud with little warning.
The Brecon Beacons receive significant rainfall. July races regularly encounter rain and saturated moorland ground, especially on the mountain sections.
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