The sixth edition of the Barry Island 10K returns to the iconic seaside location on Sunday 17 May – and it’s set to be its biggest yet. 

This year the race is collaborating with Gŵyl Fach y Fro, extending the celebration of Welsh language, arts and culture into a full two-day event, bringing a festival feel to the popular seaside spot on race weekend. 

More than 4,600 participants have registered to take on the scenic, undulating course which takes in some of the town’s most iconic landmarks including Whitmore Bary, the Knap and Romilly Park. 

The route has been devised by double Olympic marathoner Steve Brace and is the second event in the R4W 10K Series.  

What time will it start?

The main race gets underway at 10am, but there is something for all ages and abilities to take part in. 

The 50m Toddler Dash aimed at children aged three and under begins at 12:15pm, followed by the Future Challengers race at 12.30pm – a competitive 1-mile race for competitive young athletes. The event then finishes with the Family Fun Run at 1pm. 

Starting pens for the 10K open at 9:45am, so runners are urged to leave plenty of time to make it to Barry Island on time. 

What is the route?

The route takes participants from the promenade through Barry’s regenerated retail area before arching around the iconic Barry Docks Offices building.  After tackling the race’s only significant climb on Subway Road, runners will go down Broad Street, pass Barry train station and head into Romilly Park. 

Scenic views of the Bristol Channel and Porthkerry Country Park await the runners at the 6K mark. They will then take in the picturesque Knap pebble beach and head up The Parade before getting back to the Island to take on the final 2K. 

Runners will pass the roaring crowds before a loop of the amusement park and a downhill finish alongside the gardens on Friars Road. 

Where can I leave my baggage?

A designated baggage drop-off will be located adjacent to the event village and will be clearly signposted. This is open from 8:45am. 

Bags can be collected after the race upon receipt of your runner number. Only runners and staff will have access to this area which will be manned by security staff who may ask to check your bags. 

What do I need at the start?

In your pack you will find a timing chip and your running number. The chip will contain your running number and will allow friends and family to track your progress on the Run 4 Wales app, which can be downloaded on IOS or Android. Also ensure your running number is pinned to the front of your top and that you’ve filled in the emergency contact details on the back. If you’re bringing old clothing with you to keep warm while in your pen, these can be donated to Cancer Research Wales for them to sell in their stores. Please leave items in the signposted bins.  

Who is the lead charity?

Cancer Research Wales is this year’s lead charity. Many runners will be fundraising to help the only charity wholly dedicated to funding cancer research in Wales for Wales, supporting the best cancer researchers and clinicians to make pioneering discoveries to help transform the lives of cancer patients. 

Where is the event village?

The event village is located along the promenade overlooking Whitmore Bay. The event Village is perfect for chilling out post-race, or a day out with your family soaking in the vibes from the Gŵyl Fach y Fro performers. 

There’ll be entertainment, a photo wall for post-race selfies, deckchairs, a tasty selection of street food and a number of retailers and exhibitors including: 

• Cancer Research Wales – The event’s lead charity will be offering massages for a donation 

• Scimitar Sports – Our official merchandise partner 

• 2wish – Welfare support 

• Sports Chaplaincy – Welfare support 

• Dragons Bar Coffee Van – Providing refreshments 

• Love Live Lab – Bringing their acai bowls and matcha alongside their recovery lounge 

Will there be drinks available on the way round?

There will be a water station at the 5km mark. Brecon Carreg will also be hydrating runners at the finish line.     

How can I get there and where can I park on race day?

A number of official car parks will be in operation for the Barry Island 10K, with park and walk or park and ride options available. These must be pre-booked online ahead of event day. 

Runners will need to arrive to the car park of your choice by 08:30 am to avoid road closures. 

 
For more information or to book a space visit www.barryisland.co.uk/travel-parking/. 

For those wanting to cycle, a free bike park is available near the event village. 

Transport for Wales are also providing additional train services between Cardiff Central and Barry Island on race day morning, arriving in time before the 10:00am start (with 08:09, 08:29 and 08:43 services).  

Will there be road closures?

To facilitate the safe passage of participants, it will be necessary to implement road closures along the route, which have been agreed with the Vale of Glamorgan Council. The route has been designed to keep disruption to residents and businesses to a minimum. We work closely with the emergency services, whose access to the route will not be affected by the event. To see a full road closure map, head to barryisland10k.co.uk/road-closures/ 

Can I run with headphones in?

The organisers advise against running with headphones, as they can distract you from your surroundings. However, if you really want to listen to music wear bone conducting headphones or put them in one ear.  

What will the weather be like?

The weather is expected to be cloudy with highs of 15 degrees. 

Where will I get my commemorative t-shirt?

All runners will receive a commemorative t-shirt (unless they’ve opted out to donate to the Run 4 Wales Climate Action Fund) and medal when they finish the race. The size is clearly marked on runners’ race numbers, so listen to organisers to ensure you get a t-shirt that fits. 

Who are the event partners?

The event would not be possible without the support of High5, Brecon Carreg, Waterton Motor Group, Vale of Glamorgan Council and Coopah. 

Can you track runners around the race?

The Run 4 Wales App on iOS and Android can be used to inspect the route pre-race and live track participants on the day with full Google maps functionality.  

Find out more or download the app here: barryisland10k.co.uk/live-tracking/  

Race day guide

A full lowdown of all the important event information can be found here: barryisland10k.co.uk/event-information/