Got your mandatory kit sorted?
Browse the ultra runners' kit list for all your essential gear.
Dragon Coastal 30 Mile (49km) Ultra Marathon
The Dragon Coastal 30 mile ultra is the "sprint" finish to the Dragon weekend, though 30 miles is hardly a sprint for most of us!
Ideally positioned as an entry-level ultra marathon or a fast-paced training run for seasoned veterans, this linear race takes on the final 30 miles of the Dragon Coastal 100 route. It skips the brutal sand dunes of Merthyr Mawr and starts you right in the thick of the spectacular cliff-top scenery at Dunraven Bay (Southerndown).
With a generous 14 hour cut-off and manageable elevation, this is widely considered one of the best "first ultras" in the UK. You get the big race atmosphere, the fully stocked checkpoints, and the epic finish in Cardiff Bay, without the sleep deprivation.
Course
The race begins at 10:00 on Sunday morning outside the Heritage Centre at Dunraven Bay.
You start with some of the best views of the day. The route heads east along the clifftops, passing the striking Nash Point Lighthouse and the historic St Donat’s Castle (Atlantic College). The running here is generally on good grassy paths, though there are a few rocky/pebbly beach sections near Llantwit Major that will test your ankle stability.
After leaving the wilder coast behind at Aberthaw, you’ll head through the lush greenery of Porthkerry Park and onto the tarmac promenades of Barry Island. Yes, you might spot some "Gavin & Stacey" landmarks as you run through!
The route hugs the coast past Sully Island and into Penarth. Just like the longer distances, you have to face the Kymin Steps, a sharp, steep climb that greets you just a few miles from the end. Conquer that, and it’s a victorious flat run across the barrage to the Captain Scott Memorial at the Norwegian Church.
Logistics
- Park at the Finish: Drive to Cardiff Bay on Sunday morning and park near the finish line.
- Bus to the Start: Catch the event bus (approx. 08:45) which takes you to the start line at Dunraven Bay.
- Run Back: Run back to your car. It’s the easiest logistics you’ll find for a linear race.
The route follows the Wales Coast Path. The Run Walk Crawl team supplements the official signage with running arrows and ribbons, making navigation very straightforward. There are also 4 manned checkpoints on the route. You are never too far from a jelly baby or a refill of water.
