The Excalibur Marathon offers a tough and challenging trail for both routes of this run through spectacular countryside. As well as offering a gruelling challenge it also gives you the chance to see of the most beautiful parts of the Clwydian Range. This marathon is most definitely aimed at fitness fanatics and seasoned fell runner so not ideal for first timers because this is very uneven terrain.
The Clwydian Range is a big feature of the landscape in North East Wales extending through Flintshire and Denbighshire. This between range of mountains and hills can be seen in from Ruthin, Denbigh and Mold.
The Excalibur Marathon is the third annual off road event which is organised by Claire House Children’s Hospice. This race will cover over 5,500 feet of steep ascending terrain and it was certainly chosen to push athletes to the limits of endurance. While not for the faint hearted this is a fantastic Denbighshire event that everyone will want to come and observe as the runners put themselves through their paces.
The race actually offers two options of routes this year. There is a 26.2 mile route and a shorter 13.1 mile trail for those slightly less experienced runners. Both still offer a great challenge to different skill levels.
You can either run or walk the marathon depending on what you want to get out of the race. It is perfect for those looking to enjoy the best of hill walking through breath taking scenery and more experienced marathon runners in it for the adrenaline.
To get to the race start line head to Bwlch Penbarras which is accessible by taking the A494 between Mold and Ruthin and follow signs to Moel Famau. Moel Famau is the highest hill in the Clwydian range and so makes the perfect start point for our marathon.
The Clwydian range contains many areas of outstanding natural beauty and has been described as a scenic gateway into North Wales.
The marathon will take place this 10th May and the race begins bright and early at 8:30am on the Saturday morning but please arrive at 7:30am for an 8:30 start to get confirmations of registration out of the way.
This is a marvellous sporting event that the whole of Denbighshire are looking forward to and remember it is for a good cause as entry fees go to the hospice.
