Leeds & Liverpool Canal 130 Ultramarathon

Leeds & Liverpool Canal 130 Mile Ultramarathon

Spanning the historic industrial heartland of Northern England, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal Race (LLCR) is a monumental 130 mile, non-stop ultramarathon. Taking you from the docks of Merseyside to the bustling centre of Yorkshire, it is a phenomenal test of physical endurance and mental fortitude.

Organised by the highly respected team at Canalrace CIC, the LLCR is a true classic on the UK ultra-running calendar. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, flawless logistics, and deceptively brutal terrain, this 130 mile journey forms a crucial part of the prestigious "Canal Slam" (alongside the GUCR and the KACR).

Course

The route follows Britain's longest single canal built as one waterway, offering an incredible cross-section of Northern English history and scenery.

• The Journey: The race typically begins early on Saturday morning in the heart of Liverpool. From the city's iconic waterfront, you will follow the continuous towpath eastwards, navigating the spectacular Bingley Five Rise Locks, traversing the scenic fringes of the Yorkshire Dales, and finally crossing the finish line at Office Lock in Leeds.
• The Terrain: The course is entirely off-road, but it is far from soft. You will be running on a mix of hard-packed gravel, dirt, and concrete towpaths.
• The Flat Surface Challenge: Much like its sister race, the GUCR, the lack of elevation is a double-edged sword. With just a few gentle rises at the locks, the entirely flat profile means you will be using the exact same muscle groups relentlessly for up to 40 hours. This repetitive impact requires dedicated training and a flawless foot-care strategy.

Supported vs. Unsupported

Canalrace CIC offers two distinct ways to tackle the 130 mile distance, allowing runners to tailor the challenge to their own logistical preferences:

• Supported (With Crew): Runners can enlist their own dedicated support crew. Your team can meet you at designated access points along the towpath to provide specific nutrition, fresh shoes, blister care, and pacing support through the long Saturday night.
• Unsupported: If you prefer to run solo, you will be entirely reliant on the race organisers. The LLCR features an excellent network of well-stocked checkpoints (roughly every 10 to 15 miles). The brilliant volunteer teams provide hot meals, snacks, drinks, and the vital encouragement needed to keep you moving towards Yorkshire.

The Leeds & Liverpool Canal 130 mile ultra is a historic and brilliantly brutal event. It offers a slightly shorter time commitment than the 145 mile GUCR but retains all the prestige and immense challenge of a major Canalrace CIC event. The camaraderie among the runners and volunteers is second to none, and crossing the finish line in Leeds to earn that bespoke LLCR medal is an unforgettable achievement. 

Due to the popularity of the Canal Slam, entry places are highly sought after. For the most up-to-date event details and complete registration info, please visit the official Canalrace website.