The Dragon Ride 2026

Cycling the Black Mountain Pass

Widely regarded as one of the toughest sportives in the United Kingdom, the Dragon Ride is the apex of the road cycling calendar. While the event starts near Port Talbot, the route penetrates deep into the Brecon Beacons, using the roads right on our doorstep.

2026 Event Date

Sunday, June 14, 2026

A Major Change for 2026

Organisers have announced a Route Reversal for this year. This changes everything. Climbs that were previously descents will now be your primary obstacles. The approach to the Black Mountain (located just south of Llandovery) will likely be from the Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen side—a long, exposed drag that tests morale as much as leg strength.

The Distances

  • Macmillan 100 (98km): A taste of the Beacons.
  • Medio Fondo (157km): A serious step up.
  • Gran Fondo (215km): Comparable to a Tour de France mountain stage.
  • Dragon Devil (296km): The ultimate challenge featuring 4,600m of climbing and the "Devil's Staircase"—a 25% gradient wall near Abergwesyn.