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Vale Coastal 50K Ultramarathon
The Vale of Glamorgan Ultra is the original and definitive race along this stunning stretch of the Welsh coastline.
If you love sea air, dramatic cliffs, and the sound of waves crashing against the rocks, this is the race for you. It is a linear, point-to-point ultra marathon that traces the entire length of the Vale of Glamorgan Coast Path.
Starting from the Victorian elegance of Penarth Pier and finishing at the rivermouth in Ogmore-by-Sea, the route is a visual feast. You’ll pass 19 different beaches, historic viaducts, and hidden coves. It’s widely considered a "runnable" ultra, making it perfect for those chasing a fast time or stepping up to the 30+ mile (50km) distance for the first time, but don't underestimate the undulating cliffs or the final "Hill of Doom" at the finish!
Course
The race begins at 08:00 on the decking of Penarth Pier. From here, you turn right and keep the sea on your left for pretty much the entire day.
The early miles hug the clifftops, dipping in and out of rugged bays. The path is generally well-defined, following the official Wales Coast Path markers.
The second half of the race (the final 22km) enters the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, a protected area famous for its striking rock formations and geology. You’ll run beneath the towering Porthkerry Viaduct, cross Llantwit Major beach, and traverse the high cliffs of Southerndown.
The race concludes at Ogmore-by-Sea Village Hall. Be warned: the finish line is at the top of a short, sharp climb known locally as the "Hill of Doom." It’s a final sting in the tail before you earn your medal and a well-deserved sit-down.
Logistics
This is a point-to-point ultra, meaning the start and finish are in different locations.
- Park at the Finish: It's recommended to park at Ogmore-by-Sea (Rivermouth Car Park).
- Bus to the Start: The organisers offer a coach service (must be booked with entry) that departs Ogmore at 06:30 to take you to the start line in Penarth.
- Bag Drop: You can leave a bag at the start in Penarth, and the organisers will transport it to the finish for you.
The Wales Coast Path is permanently waymarked, and Run Walk Crawl add extra flags and arrows at tricky junctions. However, this is technically a self-navigation event, so you should carry the map (provided) and have the GPS route on your watch or phone.
If you fancy giving the Run Walk Crawl Vale Coastal Ultra a go, visit the official race website for full details and registration.
