A new-look Rabbit Run Wales is returning for 2025 on Saturday 19 July – and it will be bigger than ever before.
For the first time, an exciting new 40K distance will be added alongside the much-loved original 12K Rabbit Run race.
The new trail event will allow keen trail runners to experience the natural beauty of South Wales. As well as incorporating the 12K route, the new 40K distance will send runners on a spectacular adventure along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, with highlights including Ogmore-by-Sea and the iconic stepping stones by Ogmore Castle as well as taking in the stunning views along the cliffs of Southerndown.
The race also includes a short sharp incline through a quarry – challenging runners as they make their way around the course.
While the 40K distance will be self-guided, there will be checkpoints and feed stations enroute, including at several beautiful pubs in the area, allowing participants’ friends and family the perfect spot to cheer on their loved ones.
The original 12K route remains unchanged and will once again offer a unique chance to run through the private grounds of the Merthyr Mawr Estate. It offers something different at every twist and turn, taking in the stunning trails and hills of the area with runners running along muddy woodland tracks, splashing through rivers and even tumbling down the Big Dipper – the highest sand dune in Wales.
As well as the two adult races there will also be a series of children’s races for the whole family to get involved in, including a 2K Bunny family fun run, 4K Double Bunny Run for those ages between 11 and 17 and a 100m toddler dash for the under-fives.
The event was delivered by Run 4 Wales for the first time in 2024 in partnership with the Merthyr Mawr Estate. It hopes that the new look and new course addition will help add even more excitement to the event and allow even more people to experience the beauty of the trails along the South Wales coast.
Steve Brace, Race Director at Run 4 Wales, said: “We’re really excited for the 2025 Rabbit Run Wales. Not only are we bringing a new and refreshed look to the event but we’re introducing a longer race distance to allow trail runners to explore even more of our beautiful coast and countryside.
“This is a fun trail event with lots for runners to see and experience around both courses. Trail shoes are recommended to tackle the varying terrain, and we recommend that those who are looking to take on the new distance, familiarise themselves with the route as this race will be self-navigational.”
For those who want to make a weekend of the experience, Friday and Saturday night camping packages are available right on-site on the Merthyr Mawr Estate, in the enchanting Candleston Woods. Pitches cost from £25 per night and campervan pitches are also available.
For those looking to relax and unwind over event weekend, runners can take the opportunity to destress in a wood fired forest sauna. Including a cold shower, cold drench bucket as well as an immersion pod, the sauna sessions enable runners to reap the benefits of hot and cold contrast therapy to relax tired muscles. Sessions last 50 minutes for up to six people and cost just £20 per person.
A limited number of early bird entries are available for both distances, offering runners a £5 saving on general entry. However, runners are being encouraged to act quickly as the offer is expected to sell out fast. For more information about the new-look Rabbit Run Wales or to enter visit: www.rabbitrun.wales/
