There are 7 events in the Race the Sun series in 6 stunning locations across the UK.
This unforgettable charity fundraising team challenge starts and finishes Brecon, thebustling market town right at the top edge of the glorious Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.
Starting from our ‘Event Hub’ this challenge features a challenging 36-mile road bike section (split in to 2 x 18 mile sections) along the Talybont Valley that really packs a punch with a steep ascent being the sting in the tail! But what goes up, must come down, so you'll have the pleasure of the descent on the return journey.
It's then on to the Hike, a 9.6-mile circular route which summits the famous Pen y Fan, the highest point in South Wales. The route also takes ion the summits of Corn Du, Pen Y Fan and Cribyn.
Once you’ve conquered the hike, it's on to the paddle. Launching from Pontsticill Reservoir, teams will take to the water in either 2-person sit on top kayaks, or 4-person canoes to complete site 2-mile course.
Please note: The order in which you undertake these activities may vary.
Heading out of Bannau (Brecon) the stunning 36-mile ride is split into three sections, with plenty of climbs to keep you busy!
You'll start with a 15 mile ride along the Talybont Valley to the Pontsticill reservoir, after cycling the length of the reservoir to climb to the Torpantau Railway Station, a steep but short climb that is achievable for any cyclist.
From there teams will travel to either the canoe phase or the mountain phase before a 15-mile ride back to Bannau and the finish line!
After leaving your bikes with the event marshals, it's time to tackle the stunning 9.6 miles circular hike to the summit of Pen Y Fan, which at an altitude of 886m offers spectacular views of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.
Setting off from Taf Fechan Forest, the fully signed and supported route takes in the mountain tops of Corn Du, Pen Y Fan and Cribyn, before you begin your descent back to Taf Fechan Forest and your bike.
It's time to get on the water!
In either open-top canoes or kayaks your team will navigate a 2-mile journey around the breathtaking Pontsticill Reservoir.
All safety equipment is provided and you will be fully supported throughout, so no kayak or canoe experience is needed.
Action Medical Research has been funding medical breakthroughs for 70 years.
We have helped to beat polio, fight meningitis, prevent stillbirths and develop ultrasound scanning in pregnancy, helping to save thousands of children’s lives and change many more. Today we continue to tackle the challenges disease and disability present by funding high quality research to save and change children’s lives and are driving forward research to help protect children.
To register for a place on this event, please visit our charity partner website.
Search our knowledgebase. Helping you be prepared for your DofE expedition or Challenge Event.
Many minds are full with ideas for 2025: goals to conquer, adventures to be had, challenges to be set. We are delivering a whole calendar of epic events that throw down the gauntlet for those feeling determined.
Your bike is your prized possession. So why not give it the love it deserves to continue on many more miles in the future? Ensuring your kit is ready for action is a key element in preparing for your challenge and makes for a far more enjoyable experience overall. Here are some of our recommendations to maximise your enjoyment when you are on a challenge (or generally out enjoying time in the saddle!) and minimise your chances of having to stop en route to carry out fixes. Let the hills keep on rolling!