Since its inception, this iconic event has pushed endurance athletes to their limits, and this year promises to be no different.
Over six relentless days, participants will attempt to traverse the 380km spine of Wales, tackling knife-edge ridges, soaring peaks, and wild, untamed valleys as they make their way to the finish at Cardiff Castle. Race Director Shane Ohly reflects on the past 10 years of the race; “To every runner who has dared to line up for the 2025 Dragon’s Back Race: you have my deepest respect. This is a challenge that demands everything – physically, mentally, emotionally – and your courage, resilience, and determination define the very spirit of this event. Thank you for continuing to inspire all of us and for keeping the legend of the Dragon alive”
Heading to Conwy Castle for the start of the 2023 Montane Dragons Back Race No Limits Photography
Ones to watch
Women’s Field The women’s field for the Dragon’s Back Race® 2025 promises an exciting battle across the mountains. Altra athlete Holly Wootten arrives as one of the favourites, known for her consistency and explosive climbing power, while Jodie Gauld brings versatility and experience to the course. Suzy Whatmough, fresh from her SheRaces Trail Serires victory, will be looking to build on that winning momentum, while Lianne Van Dijk is tipped to shine on the technical terrain despite making her Dragon’s Back debut. Popular ultrarunner, writer, and podcaster Allie Bailey also joins the line-up, bringing her trademark grit, determination, and wealth of endurance racing experience to the challenge. Local runner Rhian Tazioli rounds out a highly competitive women’s field, combining strong form with valuable home-ground knowledge — making the women’s race one to watch from start to finish.
Men’s Field
In the men’s race, the field is just as intriguing, with an exciting blend of speed, strategy, and unique personalities. Pieter de Wortlaer brings a calm, calculated approach and the stamina to match, while previous Cape Wrath Ultra winner David Parrish enters as a dark horse with the endurance to upset the favourites. Ieuan Belshaw – A Dragon’s Back veteran, Cape Wrath Ultra finisher, and current FKT holder on the Mountain Goat Circuit in North Wales, expect him to attack hard from day one.
Meanwhile, fans will be watching Andrew Nunn closely alongside Federico Silva. Richard Elsworthy, a Research Fellow at the University of Birmingham’s School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, brings both scientific insight and serious athletic ability to the race. With so many different strengths in the field, the fight for the men’s podium is set to be unpredictable and fiercely contested.
Hugh Chatfield wins the 2023 Montane Dragons Back Race No Limits Photography
Follow the Race Live
Fans, friends, and family can follow every twist and turn of the race via the live GPS tracking page from the moment the dragon awakens at 06:00 BST on Monday 1st September.
Send daily motivational messages directly to participants using the Dragon Mail™ service — helping runners push through the darkest moments.
Daily Highlight Films
Our award-winning film team will be out on the course, capturing breathtaking mountain vistas and raw human emotion as the story of the Dragon’s Back unfolds.
• Daily highlight videos, presented by Lowri Morgan, will be posted at 8am each morning on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
• Expect drama, triumphs, heartbreak — and some of the most spectacular imagery in ultrarunning.
Robyn Cassidy wins the womens 2023 Montane Dragons Back Race No Limits Photography
Looking Ahead: Enter the 2026 Dragon’s Back Race®
Think you have what it takes to slay the dragon? Entries for 2026 are now open, with two exciting new options for aspiring adventurers:
Dragon’s Fire – Conquer the first two days of the race.
Dragon’s Tail – Take on the final two days and cross the iconic finish line in Cardiff Castle.
Whether you're chasing the full six-day epic or dipping your toes into the fire, 2026 is your year.
Links for More Information
Full Dragon: https://www.dragonsbackrace.com
Dragon’s Fire: https://www.dragonsbackrace.com/dragons-fire
Dragon’s Tail: https://www.dragonsbackrace.com/dragons-tail
The Hatchling: https://www.dragonsbackrace.com/the-hatchling