Rhayader Round The Lakes

Got a question about the Rhayader Round the Lakes? Whether you're wondering about registration, race day logistics, or what to expect on the course, our FAQs cover the most common queries. If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to get in touch — we're always happy to help!

When is the 2026 Race ?

Saturday 7th March 2026.
How do I enter?

Enter either the 30km or 10km race here https://www.riderhq.com/events/p/qogwus3i/f/rhayader-round-the-lakes-2026
What’s the minimum age for entry?

30km 18 years on race day 10km 15 years on race day
What replaces the usual male or female entry category?

There are now two entry categories as follows: OPEN - Anyone FEMALE - Born or assigned female at birth
When do entries open?

Entries for the race open on the 1st October
What happens if I want to alter my entry details?

Log into your RiderHQ account https://www.riderhq.com/login and you can manage your details yourself.
What happens if I can’t run the race?

You can swap races if there are places available or substitute someone else. There is no option to defer to another year or get a refund.
How do I swap races?

Log into RiderHQ. If there are places available on the race you want to swap to: You can move from 30km to 10km with no refund or move from the 10km to 30km where you will have to pay the additional entry fee. Sign in Here
Can I transfer my entry to someone else?

Yes. You can do this in RiderHQ yourself up to the cut-off date. Log into RiderHQ. (Sign in Here ) Find your entry Click ‘view details’ From the drop down menu at the top choose “substitute someone else’ If you know their details you can enter them or you can opt to send them a link to fill in their details. In RiderHQ there is NO OPTION to reclaim the cost of your entry from the substitute runner. Selling of places is a private matter which Round the Lakes and RiderHQ take no part in.
What if I miss the cut off date?

There are no exceptions to the cut off date so please don’t ask.
Can I switch to another race on race day?

No. Your race bib includes a timing chip and is printed with your first name and has a coloured stripe specific to the race you entered. Running a different race skews our results and you will be disqualified.
Is there a maximum number of runners for each race?

Yes, the 30km race is limited to 600 entrants and the 10km race to 200 runners.
Is there a waiting list if the race gets full?

Yes - each race has a waiting list of 20 places automated within RiderHQ. This year both entries and the waiting list filled very quickly.
Is there a cut off time for the races?

No, but the Race Committee + Director reserves the right to use the sweep vehicle / runner to withdraw participants who are taking so long to complete the race that they are putting themselves or our marshals at risk. There is an expectation that entrants will have a level of fitness commensurate with the race and walking the entire route is not be permitted.
What time do the races start?

The 10km race starts at 11.15am and the 30km at 11.30am
Where is the race start and finish?

The Smithfield Market, LD6 5BU W3W ///middle.rinsed.outs
Where is Registration, when does it open ?

Rhayader Leisure Centre North Street, Rhayader W3W///dealings.glows.pages Registration is the Friday before the race 6-8pm at the leisure centre, Race day 9 am - 10:45am at centre
Can I wear headphone during the races?

No. Because both races use roads which are NOT closed, you cannot wear in ear or over ear headphones. Bone conducting head phones are permitted but any runner seen wearing in ear or over ear headphones can be disqualified.
What does disqualification mean?

If you are disqualified during the race you will be asked to stop running and remove yourself from the race. If you are disqualified after the race has finished your time will not be published. And your entry will show as disqualified.
Are there changing facilities at the race HQ?

Yes, showers and changing rooms at Rhayader Leisure Centre. https://www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/centres/rhayader-leisure-centre/.
What other facilities and services will there be at race start + finish / race HQ?

We hope to have a couple of food concessions offering hot food and drinks; pre and post race massages; plus some local organisations and running related goods. Please note that some of these services may operate on a cash only basis.
Is there secure storage for bags?

YES! Your race number will have an integrated tear-off strip to use at the free secure bag drop which we hope will be run by the local Scouts. Whilst this is free, the Scouts will happily receive donations.
Where can I park on race day?

Parking on Race Day Parking in Rhayader can get busy on Round the Lakes day, so we recommend arriving early and leaving plenty of time to find a spot, register, and warm up. There is limited parking available in town, including at the Leisure Centre and nearby streets, but these can fill up quickly. Car sharing is a great option — not only does it help reduce congestion, but it’s also a nice way to travel together and share the race-day buzz. Please be mindful of local residents and avoid blocking driveways or parking on verges. Stewards will be on hand to help direct you where possible. Allow extra time, especially if the weather is poor — we want everyone to arrive relaxed and ready to run!
Are there water stations ?

Yes, 10km the water station is at the turn around, halfway point. see map 30km at approximately every 6k around the course ( 4 locations) see map