On 28th February 2026, the inaugural Castle2Castle Ultra, organised by Adrenaline Sporting Events, finally came to life, and it didn’t take long for runners to buy into the vision. The race sold out in just 80 minutes, a remarkable response to an idea that had been in the works since 2019, when founder Alan and route designer Julian first had the logo created.
The 31-mile ultra begins within the grounds of Powis Castle, winds alongside the Montgomery Canal, climbs through woodland and rolling farmland, and eventually joins Offa’s Dyke Path before finishing beneath the magnificent Chirk Castle at Caffi Wylfa.
A mix of canal towpaths, technical trails, steady climbs and punchy ascents, this is a course that rewards endurance and grit in equal measure.
Julian on Designing a Balanced Challenge
For route designer Julian Morgan-Ayres, the aim was always clear:
“When planning the route from Powis Castle to Chirk Castle I always wanted something which would benefit both first timers and the experienced — enough challenge to appease both at a time of year when people are starting to ramp up for bigger events.”
Even with adjustments to the start due to heavy rain in the weeks prior, the course still delivered demanding elevation and technical terrain.
“Despite some good fortune with the weather, runners still had to tackle some technical and challenging ascents and descents — but they were awesome.”
Julian also highlighted something rarely seen in endurance events:
“We had a near 50/50 male-to-female split, which is pretty much unheard of. There were some rapid times at the front and some incredible efforts all the way through the field.”
The Runners’ Experience
From the moment runners arrived on race morning, the tone was set.
Simon Pritchard, taking on his third ultra, praised the organisation from the outset:
“Great pre-event info and the New Year webinar made everyone feel in safe hands. On the morning itself, kit check, tracker and bib issue and brief were efficient and super friendly and professional.”
He also singled out the checkpoints:
“Food stops were brilliant — huge variety and amount of food and drink options made it very difficult to leave!”
For Gaz Richardson, the combination of challenge and scenery stood out:
“An amazing event overall. The course was challenging, yet absolutely stunning with support all along the way from friends and family to random strangers. The aid stations were fantastic with plenty of food and drink to keep you fuelled.”
And then there was the finish.
Tam Goode summed up the emotional payoff perfectly:
“The route was just amazing, taking in some beautiful views and making the hills worth it… almost! There was so much support out on the course making the canal slog a lot more palatable and the aid stations were top class. I would absolutely recommend this to others — the sense of achievement and cheers when you finish is awesome!”
Whether battling the canal miles, grinding up climbs, or pushing through the final ascent towards Chirk Castle, runners consistently spoke about the atmosphere; the cheers, the camaraderie, and the shared sense of achievement.
Alan Reflects on Year One
For Alan, founder of Adrenaline Sporting Events, the inaugural edition was emotional:
“Year one was an absolute blast. I’m just absolutely in awe of all the runners that achieved the Castle2Castle Ultra.”
He was quick to credit the wider team; from Julian’s route expertise to volunteers, medical staff, local businesses, stakeholders, and partners who helped deliver food stops and finish-line goodies.
“The support from everyone behind the scenes and out on the course made this event what it was. If you want to go again in 2027, let us know — we’ll see what we can do.”
Looking Ahead to 2027
If year one is anything to go by, Castle2Castle Ultra is only just getting started. A sold-out debut, glowing runner feedback, a balanced and beautifully brutal route, and a finish-line atmosphere that people are still talking about – it has all the ingredients of a future classic.
If 2026 was about proving the concept, 2027 could be about cementing its place as one of the must-run ultras in the region.
Missed out this year? Keep your eyes peeled. If entries open anything like they did this time, you won’t want to hang around.
