The organisers of the Cape Wrath Ultra and the Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race have confirmed that both events will take place annually from 2021.
Previously held on a biennial basis in the May of alternating years, the races will bookend the summer.
The Cape Wrath Ultra will stay in May, while the Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race will move to September. It returns to the month in which it was originally held.
The Cape Wrath Ultra and Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race are staged by Ourea Events and are regarded as two of the most challenging and spectacular expedition races in the world.
Demand for places at both events has increased in recent years, as the global popularity of ultra-running and expedition racing has grown.
Shane Ohly, race director, said: “This move comes in response to the growing international reputation and huge popularity of both races, meaning that every year many people miss out on an entry.
“Changing the schedules will allow more participants to take on these ‘bucket list’ events.
“Entry numbers in each race will not increase significantly, so that we can ensure that their unique atmosphere stays the same, but, of course, we will now have two amazing events every year.
“All participants and event volunteers will continue to enjoy the personal, friendly and welcoming elements that already characterise both races.”
What is the Cape Wrath Ultra?
The Cape Wrath Ultra journeys for 400km over eight days through the Scottish Highlands, from Fort William to Cape Wrath at the most north-westerly tip of the UK.
The last two editions of the event were in 2016 and 2018, and the next is already sold out and will run from May 24 to 31, 2020. The race will stay in May and entries for 2021 will open a year in advance.
Also read: Cape Wrath Ultra: 19 things to know.
What is the Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race?
The Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race follows the mountainous spine of Wales from north to south and is acclaimed as one of the toughest mountain races in the world. The last two events were in May 2017 and May 2019 – and the next race will be in September 2021. Entries will open a year in advance.
The original Dragon’s Back Race took place in 1992 and the first modern edition was played out in 2012. Both were held in September, so this change is a return to the original month of the event.
Also read: 19 things I learned while reporting on the Dragon’s Back Race.
Winners of the Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race 2019.
Shane Ohly added: “We have a truly excellent team behind these events and we remain committed to maintaining their outstanding reputation for bulletproof organisation.
“But we also want to continually improve the races to ensure that they endure as iconic, life-changing journeys for everyone who takes part.”
See www.capewrathultra.com and www.berghausdragonsbackrace.com.