The dates are set for the 2026 not-for-profit two ultra race Canalrace series.
Grand Union Canal 145 mile Race (GUCR) 2026
Birmingham – London
“The Long Run – Downhill”
Saturday 23rd May 2026 06:00 at Gas Street, Birmingham, UK (Spring bank holiday weekend).
Pre-registration to enter the GUCR draw for places opens 06:00 18th September 2025 on SiEntries.co.uk and closes 31st October.
Race Information | How to Enter
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 (Summer bank holiday weekend).
Entries open 06:00 18th September 2025 on SiEntries.co.uk
Unsupported (tended by organisers) places will be limited to 75. Thereafter an Unsupported Wait List will be maintained for those that get in touch.
Race Information | How to Enter
We are both humbled and honoured to take on the responsibility of overseeing the Canalrace events. It’s a delightful surprise to find that my greatest achievement has been convincing everyone of my qualifications for this role—hopefully, without taking an unexpected dip in the canal!
Reflecting on my journey from nervously participating in the GUCR 145 in 2018 to now proudly coordinating the Canalrace series in 2026, it has truly been an exhilarating experience. Our biggest challenges often involved managing our enthusiasm and keeping snacks away from the ducks, all while navigating the intricacies of event planning.
Cerys and I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dick, Keith, Wayne, and the entire Canalrace family. Their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have built a vibrant community, transforming the GUCR 145, KACR 145, LLCR 130, and WRCR 111 into events that go far beyond mere racing. These events foster connections, provide support, and cultivate a shared sense of achievement. As we step into this new role, we pledge to honour their legacy with humility, care, and deep respect for what they have accomplished.
Our mission is clear: to preserve the warmth and sense of accomplishment that define these events while infusing them with fresh enthusiasm and excitement.
In the spirit of the Canalrace C.I.C. motto, we encourage participants to set their expectations low—then halve them! This approach ensures that everyone can enjoy the journey, both during and after the race.
Rhys Jenkins