I loved this event. The Embrace Team really go to town with the support factor. I don't particularly need swag at the end, but I do need a bit of love on the course, and we got that in buckets. The volunteers could not have been more helpful. The pre-race information had everything we needed, and the option of booking a shuttle from the finish line to the start was most appreciated, it took the headache out of the logistics of a point to point course. The course itself was pretty challenging in places, but that is all part of a trail ultra. Navigation was not a problem, the course was well marked and a gpx file was provided beforehand which I used to navigate via my watch. This was my second Embrace event and it will definitely not be last!

Being my first ultra , Embrace have set a very high standard, I wasn’t fast or very well trained for the event, but having all the support along the way kept me going, marshals and aid stations were brilliant, even the rain In the final few miles couldn’t stop me , meeting up with other people kept us all going at the end of the day, people were so friendly. I’ll be back next year 😀

It really was an outstanding event. From the regular fun race nights prior to the event itself. Friendly and helpful organisers who were welcoming to a newbie. The aid stations were well stocked and supported the runners. Sign posting was good throughout and while the route itself was challenging, they gave some hints and tips in what to expect. It was also great to see the professionalism to ensure safety with checks on mandatory kit - I felt in good hands that they had the runners best interest at heart throughout.

Amazing event - pre race details were very clear with emails and race directions. On arrival simple registration and good to see the mandatory kit being checked. Having a warm hall and toilets available while we waited for the start was useful and it was a quick stroll to the start line. Off we went and around a beautiful course to Wye. Aid stations full of extremely helpful people and good food choices. Marshals on the course were great and signage so good I didn’t need to look at my watch gpx once. Finish line was amazing to reach and the post finish hall with drink and food was welcome. Cake and custard is now my new post race food!

The 50km Winterlust Ultramarathon was exceptional in almost every area and easily one of the most enjoyable events I’ve taken part in. The organisation, atmosphere and overall execution put it firmly in the category of races you genuinely want to return to. The setup on the day was excellent. Everything ran smoothly and you can tell it’s been put together by people who care about the runner experience. The course itself was a proper test, challenging without being overwhelming but also one of the most beautiful routes I’ve run. Varied terrain, big scenery moments and that sense of adventure you want from an ultra. There were a couple of route points that caused some confusion and the start was fairly congested, which made settling into pace harder than ideal. Neither issue overshadowed the day, but they’re worth noting as small tweaks that could elevate the experience even further. Refuel stations were spot on. Well placed, well stocked and staffed by supportive volunteers who knew exactly what runners needed. And the finish line treat a bowl of chilli and chocolate cake was absolutely perfect after 50km on your feet. Huge credit goes to Phil and Jen. What they’ve achieved with this event is genuinely impressive. The passion and detail are obvious. They’ve built something far more than a race,it’s a community experience. And that community deserves recognition. Friendly, encouraging and welcoming from the moment you arrive. Whether you're new to ultras or a regular, you feel like you belong. Overall, Winterlust was a tough, rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable event, with only minor improvements needed. I’m already looking forward to lining up again in 2026.

Finished the Winter Wanderlust 50k. A wonderful event. Found it tough and came in last because of the weather but the sweepers were so kind and held me up when I was flagging just as I came across the finish line with minutes to spare. The race tested me for sure but it was so well organised, very well signed along the course, the marshalls were amazing and the check points were fully stocked.

Absolutely splendid event. Beautiful course. The weather the week before made some of the run very muddy but the route is beautiful, undulating heavily in the first half and a big steep climb before the down hill a few km before the finish. Lovely aid stations. Really superb finish area meal and party atmosphere. There was a mindful mile from the Calm Charity which was very moving. Thank you to all involved.