The Twelfth
LEEDS & LIVERPOOL CANAL 130 MILE RACE
(LLCR 2026)
Liverpool - Leeds
"The Trans-Pennine Run"
Saturday 29th August 2026 06:00 at Old Hall St, Liverpool, UK
How to Enter the LLCR
Everyone’s welcome — no ultra experience, no problem.
You don’t need to be an ultra veteran, a gear nerd, or someone who calls a 4am start “fun.” If you’ve run a marathon — or just love a challenge and don’t mind a bit of towpath grit — you’re in the right place.
There are no qualifying standards, no gatekeeping, and definitely no need to “look” like an ultrarunner (whatever that means). Whether you’re chasing a new goal, building confidence, or just want to see what you’re made of — we’d love to have you on the start line.
Bring your courage, your snacks, and your sense of humour. We’ll take care of the rest.
Canalrace events are for everyone — all paces, all backgrounds, all kinds of brave.
Whether you’re brand new to ultras or have a wall full of finish-line photos, you’ll be welcomed with open arms by some of the friendliest volunteers you’re ever likely to meet (seriously, they’re the heart of these events — and they bring snacks).
Thinking, “I’ve never run that far before…”? Well, no one has — until they do. You don’t need to know you can finish — you just need to be willing to try. And if things don’t go to plan? No drama. We’ve got a sweeper’s bus and a kind soul to help you get home. No shame. No pressure. Just support.
Worried about navigation? Don’t be. We’ve conveniently placed a canal or river next to nearly the entire route — so just follow the water. And to make doubly sure, you’ll get detailed waterproof maps as part of your race pack.
Not sure about carrying all your kit? You don’t have to. Our experienced checkpoint crews will transport your drop bag from point to point. You’ll have time at each stop to refuel, rehydrate, change clothes, and reset — all well within our generous cut-offs.
Thinking of entering? Here’s what to do next:
✅ Decide if you’ll run Supported (with your own crew) or Unsupported (looked after by our lovely volunteers)
✅ Read the [Race Info]
✅ Read the [Pre-Entry Notes]
✅ Read the [Terms & Conditions]
✅ Read the [FAQs] (you’ll probably find a few laughs in there too)
The 2026 race calendar, including entry dates for LLCR and others, is available here. Keep an eye on the News section for updates, and everything you need to get ready for the towpath, in particular the 2026 Canalrace Season Entry Notes.
Important: Entries via SiEntries close at midnight on 31st July 2026 — don’t miss out!
We strongly encourage runners to enter as Supported (with your own crew), if possible. Unsupported spots — for those relying solely on race organisers and checkpoint crews — are extremely limited and in high demand.
We cap Unsupported entries at 85 to ensure no more than 75 are actually on the start line. If the Unsupported option isn’t showing on SiEntries, that means it’s full. In that case, please: Select the Supported option if you can arrange a crew. If not, contact the organiser to be added to the Unsupported Wait List.
Spots from the wait list are offered on a one-out, one-in basis — so there’s still a chance to join the fun if someone drops out.