Grand Union Canal 145 Mile Race
Info: This event uses pre-selection lists to allocate entries.
Supported: £75 (Attached) £77 (Unattached) |
To enter you must first Log In or Register your Details with SiEntries.
To get a pre-selection list entry just enter as normal. No payment is required at this stage as there is no guarantee of being offered a place. If the Event Organiser is able to offer you a place they will send you an email inviting you to enter. You will then be asked to come back to this site and make your payment to confirm your entry. For more details please see our Pre-selection List Help.
The Long Run – Downhill
Grand Union Canal Race 2026
Introduction
The 2026 GUCR is back—and yes, it’s “downhill” from Brum to Lon (if only it felt that way after mile 100).
Held under UK Athletics rules and with the kind permission of the Canal & River Trust, this non-stop 145-mile race takes runners from Gas Street Basin in Birmingham to Little Venice in London, following the fully waymarked Grand Union Canal Towpath.
Open to anyone aged 20 or over, the event welcomes runners of all abilities. Support crews are recommended, but up to 75 Unsupported places are available—these runners are looked after by the organisers, Canalrace C.I.C.
(Trail Running Association Permit Number: TBC).
Widely recognised as one of Britain’s most iconic ultras, the GUCR offers a flat(ish), easy-to-navigate course that winds through a mix of urban and rural landscapes. From canalside cities to quiet countryside, this race delivers variety—and a real sense of journey.
What Makes GUCR Special?
This is a race organised by runners, for runners—built on passion, not hype. It’s friendly, low-pressure, and welcoming to anyone ready to take on the challenge, whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner or going long for the first time.
There are no formal entry qualifications—just determination and a sense of adventure. You’ll need to keep a steady pace to reach the finish within the generous 45-hour cut-off.
Here’s what you can expect:
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Straightforward navigation – Follow the canal and our detailed maps.
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Regular support – Snacks and drinks every 10–15 miles.
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Help if you need to stop – Transport to the nearest station for retirees.
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Generous cut-offs – 45 hours to get the job done. No panic pacing.
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Open to all – Many finishers have completed just a marathon before this.
Course Records
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Men: 22:16 – Dan Lawson (2015)
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Women: 25:45 – Samantha Amend (2021)
Entry Process
Thanks for your interest in GUCR 2026! Here's how to get involved in this iconic race:
Step 1: Pre-Register (by 31st October)
Register your interest on SiEntries. No payment is taken at this stage. You'll receive an automatic confirmation email—be sure to use the correct email address for the runner being registered.
A lottery draw will be held in early November. Details of time and location will be shared beforehand, and runners are welcome to attend. Successful applicants will receive an “Invitation to Enter” via email shortly after the draw. Unsuccessful entrants will also be notified.
Note: Choosing the Supported category (running with your own crew) significantly increases your chances of securing a place. Unsupported spots are limited and in high demand.
Step 2: Accept Your Invitation
If selected, follow the email link back to SiEntries to make payment and confirm your place. Once completed, your name will appear on the race Entry List.
Good to Know
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This is a minimum support race, with regular feed points and drinks for all runners.
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There is no medical crew on course. Unsupported retirees will be transported to the nearest station.
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Support crews are welcome throughout. Buddy runners (on foot, not pacers) may join from the 75-mile point onward.
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Cut-off times at checkpoints are based on the overall 45-hour limit—meaning a finish by 03:00 on Monday morning.
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Most places are allocated via the lottery draw.
For full details, including Pre-Entry Notes, Terms & Conditions, and Race Rules, visit the
GUCR 2026 How to Enter page on canalrace.org.uk.
View the Event Disclaimer / Terms and Conditions.
View the Event Cancellation / Refund Policy.
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