PHOENIX - South Wales - We're All Mad Here

Join Phoenix Running South Wales on Sunday, January 3rd, 2027, at Rhydycar in Merthyr Tydfil for an unforgettable running experience. The venue offers runners and walkers alike the opportunity to explore a scenic course along the Taff Trail, known for its unique flexibility and accommodating atmosphere.
The event features a looped route that measures approximately 5.3 kilometers (3.28 miles) one way, with participants able to complete as many laps as they desire within a generous seven-hour window. The trail winds southward from Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre towards the turnaround point and then returns north past Merthyr College before heading back to the aid station for finishing.
Registration opens at 7:30 AM, with staggered starts beginning promptly at 8:30 AM. This format allows runners to start when they're ready without waiting in long lines or feeling rushed. The course itself is entirely paved and certified by AUKCM as a road race route under classification 25/472.
The event's highlight, aside from the stunning Welsh landscape, includes an exclusive finisher’s medal for all participants who complete at least one lap of the course. For those looking to keep costs down while still enjoying the full experience, Phoenix Running South Wales offers a no-medal entry option starting at £20, which covers essential race amenities and services.
Runners can expect well-stocked aid stations along the way, real-time results available on-site, personalized athlete profiles, digital bibs, finisher certificates, and more. The event is licensed by Welsh Athletics to ensure safety and compliance with UK Athletics rules regarding distance restrictions for participants under 20 years of age.
Whether you're aiming to complete a single lap or push yourself through multiple loops, this race offers something special for every level of runner or walker. Don't miss the chance to be part of an event that celebrates individual achievement in a supportive and scenic environment.