Ultra Marathon Firm Collapses, Leaving Runners Stranded

Ourea Events, a prominent UK ultra marathon organiser, has ceased trading, causing dismay among runners. The company, responsible for events such as the Dragon's Back Race and Cape Wrath Ultra, stated that it had operated at a loss since the pandemic, exacerbated by Brexit's impact on international participation. This decision means races like the 186-mile Northern Traverse, scheduled to start on March 28, are affected.

Participants expressed frustration and feelings of being scammed, with many having paid substantial sums for race entries, including deposits, transfers, and meals. Ben Morris reported paying approximately £900 for the Northern Traverse, while Nick Moore and Sophie Hatfield each paid around £800, with insurance policies found to be ineffective for cancellations. Some runners are exploring bank recourse or planning to complete the routes independently.

Ourea Events founder Shane Ohly acknowledged the situation as a "deeply painful moment." The company hopes that ceasing trading now will maximize the chances of the events continuing under a different structure or ownership, though participants face uncertainty about refunds and the future of their planned races.