There was some fantastic news for ultrarunners this week – especially those in Britain – after it was announced that Ultra X have acquired the Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse, securing their future and honouring all entries for upcoming editions.
Last month Ourea Events, who created and organised some of the UK’s most iconic ultrarunning races including the Dragon’s Back, ceased trading with immediate effect.
They had made a huge impact, not just with the Dragon’s Back multi-day event across the spine of Wales but also with the Cape Wrath Ultra and Northern Traverse.
‘Exciting new chapter’
But after that hammer blow came the welcome update from fellow organisers Ultra X who said they were “proud to announce the acquisition of Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse out of administration, securing the future of two of the UK’s most respected and demanding endurance events”.
Former Ourea Events Operations Director Greg Mickelborough has joined the Ultra X group and will be heading up the delivery of the two events.
And Shane Ohly, former CEO of Ourea Events, has been contracted by the group to ensure ongoing event continuity.
Ohly said: “I’m very pleased that Ultra X has secured the future of Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse, an organisation that shares a strong commitment to operational excellence, participant experience, and attention to detail.
“It is also very encouraging that Ultra X will be honouring existing entries. I’m confident this represents an exciting new chapter for both events.”
2026 Dragon’s Back to go ahead
And a statement from Ultra X co-founders Sam Heward and Jamie Sparks read: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse into the Ultra X family. Our priority now is to provide certainty for participants and to deliver these events in the way that people already love!”
As a gesture of goodwill Ultra X say:
The 2026 edition of Dragon’s Back Race will go ahead as planned in its existing format. All existing entries will be honoured.
All entrants for the 2026 Northern Traverse will have their places transferred to the 2027 edition.
All entrants to Cape Wrath Ultra 2026, which the Ultra X Group will not be organising, will be able to convert the fee they paid into Ultra X race credit. This credit will be redeemable against any races operated by the Ultra X group for a period of up to 3 years. That includes Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse.
Registered entries to all 3 races will be contacted shortly with further details and further updates will appear on the Ultra X website.
Character will be preserved
The statement continued by saying: “The acquisition marks an important moment for Ultra X as it continues to invest in world-class adventure and ultra-endurance experiences. Both races have built passionate communities, distinctive identities and hard-earned reputations for delivering unforgettable journeys through some of Britain’s most spectacular landscapes.
“Crucially, both Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse will remain entirely separate brands from Ultra X. Their character and positioning within the market will be preserved and respected.
“Looking ahead, Ultra X’s aims for the two events are centred on stability, stewardship and measured/sustainable growth.
“The acquisition reflects Ultra X’s broader vision of building a portfolio of exceptional endurance events that inspire people through adventure, challenge and exploration.
“Registrations to the 2026 edition of Dragon’s Back have now re-opened, and registrations to the 2027 Northern Traverse will re-open soon. Further information can be found on the respective websites.”
