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Punk Panther's Welcome Way 55K Ultra Marathon
Don’t let the polite name fool you. While the Welcome Way was created to connect the friendly communities of Otley, Burley, and Baildon, this race packs a serious punch. With over 1,200m (4,000ft) of climbing on the 55km (34 mile) course alone, this is a proper Yorkshire test of legs and lungs.
As Race 3 in the Punk Panther calendar (and the opener for the 50 mile series), the Welcome Way Ultra takes runners on a spectacular tour of Wharfedale and beyond. It’s a route that celebrates the very best of the local landscape from the gritstone crags of The Chevin to the sweeping moorlands of Shipley Glen.
While the 34 mile 55km Ultra is the sweet spot for many, the event also offer a 50 mile ultra option.
Course
The route largely follows the waymarked Welcome Way trail, a community project that highlights the history and beauty of the area.
While the course is taped and flagged, veteran runners know that tape can go missing. You are expected to be self-reliant. A GPX file is essential, and you must carry a hard copy of the map. The terrain is a classic mix of muddy trails, moorland trods, and woodland paths, trail shoes are non-negotiable here!
Every Ultra runner is issued a GPS tracker included in the entry fee. This allows your friends and family to follow your "dot" in real-time as you traverse the moors, and you won’t go hungry either. Checkpoints are stocked with the usual ultra fuel (water, Coke, snacks), but the real magic happens at the finish line. Return to Otley Cricket Club and you’ll be greeted with homemade pie, cheese toasties, and 10-bean chilli (with vegan and GF options). It’s proper Yorkshire hospitality to warm you up after a long day in the hills.
The Welcome Way Ultra Marathon from Punk Panther offers big vert and beautiful views. If you're ready to sign up, head over to the official race website for all the latest info.
