FAQS

Although the event is possible in ‘normal’ trainers it should be understood that the majority of the event is off-road. Having said this; a large proportion of the off-road is ‘hard pack’ trail although there will be some sections (namely ‘The Gap”) that is rocky and a couple of miles after this muddy sections will be encountered on the footpaths that take you down to Pencelli. You might therefore consider either ‘cross’ trainers or even better some trail shoes. However, it must be noted that the route is NOT fell orientated and for this reason fell shoes would NOT be considered appropriate. Ideally something along the lines of the Inov-8 Roclite style would be a great guide in our opinion which gives a great balance between comfort, speed and grip; though of course there are other makes out there that would similarly also be applicable.

Highly probable! Remember this is Wales in winter, so a ‘bit of damp’ is highly likely. There are options (Goretex trainers or Sealskinz socks etc) that you might want to consider although us ‘Likeys’ lot just prefer to get wet feet!

In short; “No” …… BUT…. you will definitely require a head torch as part of the compulsory equipment and unless you really are a whippet you will almost certainly use it (remember it will get dark about 4:45 pm during this weekend) and so if there is a piece of kit that is worth investing extra money in; then this could be it! Remember to have the batteries charged (or ready to go) and also to have spare batteries with you; these are also part of the compulsory kit list, so don’t turn up without either unless you intend to buy one from a certain kit supplier on the day!

“Yes” – This is compulsory kit. The Beacons Ultra takes place in the Welsh Mountains in November, so weather wise anything can happen! Even if you are the type that never runs in waterproofs there is always a slight risk that despite every attempt to ensure your safety, there is still an outside possibility that an ‘incident’ may occur. Should such a situation arise, the body can cool very quickly, particularly in adverse conditions, so please make sure you carry these even if you don’t intend to use them.

For the same reasons as above, a form of hat and gloves are compulsory kit.

Mmmmm, It was nearly decided to make this compulsory kit, although I hate forcing technology on anyone and even believe it can be a hindrance or unwanted luxury when attempting to find isolation in a remote environment! Paradoxically, for the purpose of the Beacons Ultra, it would be wise to take one although if you don’t own one then you will still be allowed to race. Closer to the time emergency numbers will be issued as part of your race pack for all competitors regardless of whether you have a phone or not.

Again make sure the batteries are fully charged. It should be understood that reception is patchy and some networks have a higher success rate than others. Climatic conditions on the day will also influence the degree of reception. Despite this, it is estimated that you should find coverage for approx 70% of the route.

For the race itself, copies of the relevant map extracts will be provided by us so it is not a requirement to bring map(s) with you, but for general interest and/or for more comprehensive navigation during the event, some people have opted to buy the map(s). If you do decide to buy the relevant maps then the most appropriate one is the Explorer (1:25 000) OL12 (Brecon Beacons & Western Areas Map) which covers 85% of the course. If you really want the entire route then you will also require OL13 Eastern Area. There will be extra markers on the day as well. Of course for you techie types then there are also the ‘memory map’ options that will also give you the course profile etc should you want more detail.

The Beacons Ultra route was chosen specifically so that a competitor can enjoy the wonderful variety of terrain, experience an element of wilderness and hopefully take in views which the area has to offer, but without requiring a heavy degree of navigation to be able to take part. The route is well marked and well trodden with marshals present at key points.

Having said this, it certainly won’t do any harm to have a bit of practise with a map and compass before you turn up and perhaps try it out as a ‘test’ on the day. An element of map reading may also mean that you might be able to prepare yourself and pace yourself during the event.

In short, during the race - No!
The race itself really is about self sufficiency (just like a real ultra!) There are no ‘shops’ on route so don’t expect to buy anything anywhere. You should plan and take all you provisions for the day. There will be no ‘drops’ on route.
However, on completion we will have a cup of tea/coffee ready for you together with an array of biscuits and cakes.

No! You should make sure that you have all your essential kit and food with you at all times for the entire duration of the event. This is because of the self sufficiancy nature of the event and more importantly safety reasons.

You will need to start the day with full water rations; running water from the tap is available at the registration, so there are no excuses for starting this event dehydrated. There will be water available on route at checkpoints approx 8 miles apart (do not underestimate the time it might take you to cover these 8 miles; they might all be uphill for example) details of water stops are to follow in due course

The second loop begins at 22.5 mile mark; the cut-off time will be 3pm. If you arrive at the end of the first loop and it is after 3pm you will be retired from the challenge having completed one lap.

The time limit for the race as a whole is 11:00pm on Saturday 20th; It is a day race and so needs to be completed on the day! The start is at 8am so this means that you have up to 15 hours to complete the challenge. If there are any folk still on the course at this time, they will be retired from the event.

No! Your feet are your responsibility as are your provisions for dealing with them. Tailor your compulsory first aid pack to suit your personal needs.
There will however be qualified medics & first aiders available to deal with emergencies should they arise.

Of course! It will be a fantastic opportunity to meet other like minded folk, learn a lot, and attempt a considerable challenge all at the same time. Despite the event being designed to welcome all types into the world of ultra running, you will probably have a better experience if you take some steps to ensure that you are reasonably familiar with your kit, footwear, food etc before the event itself.

If you do have any further questions then please don’t hesitate to fire away and we’ll get them posted up no matter how daft you think they may be!