2015 Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race™ entries
The North Face sponsored athlete Jez Bragg running in the spectacular Te Araroa, New Zealand. ©Damiano Levati - The North Face
The initial line up for 2015 Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race™ has been announced and there is some stand out British names taking part such as Jez Bragg and Lizzie Wraith.
Winner of The North Face Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc and a Commonwealth 100km gold medalist, Jez Bragg had this to say, "The Dragon's Back Race has been on my radar for some time now so I'm excited to have the opportunity to run the race in 2015. The route down the spine of Wales is an absolute classic, and will no doubt test our mountain craft and running skills to the absolute limit, not least because of the severity and wild nature of the terrain. I fully expect this race to be one of those week's to remember forever; it will be epic for sure!"
These initial entries were offered after a pre-registration period ending on the 8th September 2014. Although there were 293 applications less than 150 were accepted by the organisers and therefore there will be a few additional places available for the 2015 race. These last few entries are being offered on first come, first served basis but subject to the usual vetting criteria.
Race Director, Shane Ohly, explains, “All applications are still subject to vetting and the most important thing to me is that the competitor can demonstrate, through previous experience, that they are capable to staying safe in the mountain environment whilst also having a reasonable chance of completing the race”.
Jon Barker and Catherine Holloway at the 2014 Great Lakeland 3Day™ will both be taking part in the 2015 Berghaus Dragon's Back Race™. © Ian Corless
Many competitors from the 2012 Berghaus Dragon’s Back Race™ are returning to this iconic mountain race in 2015 and yet again, the event has attracted a strong international field with runners coming from as far afield as Hong Kong, Australia, Canada and America as well most major European countries. Jon Barker from the US explained why he is returning, “The rugged beauty of Wales, which I had not visited for over 30 years lured me to attempt the 2012 Dragons Back Race™. The tough, beautiful, journey from north to south did not disappoint. A Lifetime of highs & lows crammed into five days of cross-country running. It seems only natural to return in 2015.”
Charlie Sharp on his way to 2nd place at Berghaus Trail Chase™ held in the stunning North York Moors National Park - August 2014. © Ian Corless
Up and coming British ultra runner Charlie Sharp is also competing. He was actually one of the volunteer marshals at the 2012 race and explained that; “Having being part of the volunteer crew in 2012 I saw some of the struggles that went on for runners so I'm expecting a challenging event! I love the hills and can't wait to spend a week running down Wales with the sort of inspiring people that the event attracts. Having the luxury of a nights sleep between stages will be nice too! I'm looking forward to the adventure!”
Potential competitors wishing to snap up the last few places will need to complete the online application form. After completing this competitors will be added to a waiting list and their entry vetted. Usually a potential competitor will received a decision within 24 hours. Entries will close again as soon as the race limit is reached.