There has never been a better time to slay the dragon following the announcement of two new formats for one of the UK’s most popular races.
Max King and Jo Meek reigned supreme last year at the epic 236-mile (380km) Dragon’s Back Race, which takes competitors all the way from Conwy Castle to Cardiff Castle, with over 16,000 metres of climbing in between.
But next year, two new mountain challenges and have been added – the Dragon’s Fire and the Dragon’s Tail – which offer a more accessible, two-day alternative to the full six-day race.
“Open the door”
Event director Shane Ohly said: “I’m incredibly excited. These two new races open the door for more runners to experience the magic of the Dragon’s Back Race in a more accessible and achievable way.
“These aren’t watered-down versions of the main event; they are must-do mountain running challenges. Completing either is asignificant achievement, and one any runner should be proud of.
“I also hope these races serve as a stepping stone for aspiring Dragons. Many runners don’t realise what they’re truly capable of – and I hope these new races will ignite that sense of belief and adventure.”
Entries open from the end of this month for the two new events, which are both sub 150km and offer full race support and overnight camps.
The Dragon’s Fire begins at Conwy Castle and covers the most technical terrain of the main race, including Snowdon massif and the Rhinogs, covering a distance of 110km, with a 7300m+ ascent. It takes place on September 7-8, 2026.
The Dragon’s Tail joins the race on Day 5 for a stunning traverse of the Bannau Brycheiniog and a celebratory finish at Cardiff Castle, covering a distance of 137km, with a 4500m+ ascent. It takes place on September 11-12, 2026.
This year’s eagerly-awaited Dragon’s Back, given its name because of the jagged, narrow mountaintop terrain’s resemblance to the back of the legendary beast, begins on September 1.
