Is there anywhere to find a list of ultras in the UK? Alsowhat would be a good 50 miler to have a crack at and a good 100 miler?
Is there anywhere to find a list of ultras in the UK? Alsowhat would be a good 50 miler to have a crack at and a good 100 miler?
Here maddaddy, try this: http://www.ultramarathonrunning.com/
A good 50-miler to start with is Round Rotherham. A good 100-miler with the best possible support is the annual LDWA 100, usually held at the end of May but this year's Games 100 is special, so it's at the beginning of June. I believe there are still some places left but you have to qualify with a 50 completion.
I'd echo the Round Rotherham as a good shout for your first 50. It was my first race over 26.2 miles, and a great intro to ultra running. It's a very 'runnable' course so you might be surprised at how fast you can get round, but the time limit is very forgiving if it goes less well, as many entrants will walk the whole thing. Plus the organisation and support at checkpoints was great!
Another good 50-miler to have a crack at is the Whitby Frostbite 50 (aka Yorkshire Ultra) which takes place in January every year. It's pretty new, only about 3 years old, but a glorious route which combines the Cleveland Way along the North Yorkshire coast with a route around the North York Moors. Great support crew too. Check it out and read reviews here: http://www.adventurehub.com/Ultra_Races.html
......yes, I know I'm a bit muddy
There's a good ultra calendar here: http://beyondmarathon.com/
Another vote for rotherham for a first 50, you can run walk the 2nd half if it all goes wrong. Not a bad route and excellent support, plus there'll be plenty us on it too for a natter.
You could bridge your training for the RR in October with Long Tour of Bradwell in August Maddaddy. Cracking little Ultra.
Be Humble. Sit Down.
Something thats a way-marked path is a good bet as a first. Like the Cataran up in Scotland. Might be a bit hillier but less chance of getting lost!
I M Povey New Marske Harriers
http://manwithoutashed.blogspot.com
The High Peak 40-miler from Buxton in September is another good one that's marked, and it's ideal as a final warm-up for Round Rotherham in October.