Ultra X Secures the Future of Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse
Ultra X acquires Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse, securing their future and honouring all entries for upcoming editions.
Ultra X is proud to announce the acquisition of Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse out of administration, securing the future of two of the UK’s most respected and demanding endurance events.
Former Ourea Events Operations Director Greg Mickelborough has joined the Ultra X group and will be heading up the delivery of the two events. Shane Ohly, former CEO of Ourea Events, has been contracted by the group to ensure ongoing event continuity.
“I’m very pleased that Ultra X has secured the future of Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse, an organisation that shares a strong commitment to operational excellence, participant experience, and attention to detail. It is also very encouraging that Ultra X will be honouring existing entries. I’m confident this represents an exciting new chapter for both events.” said former Ourea Events CEO Shane Ohly
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse into the Ultra X family. Our priority now is to provide certainty for participants and to deliver these events in the way that people already love!,” said Ultra X co-founders Sam Heward and Jamie Sparks.
As a gesture of goodwill:
- The 2026 edition of Dragon’s Back Race will go ahead as planned in its existing format. All existing entries will be honoured.
- All entrants for the 2026 Northern Traverse will have their places transferred to the 2027 edition.
- All entrants to Cape Wrath Ultra 2026, which the Ultra X Group will not be organising, will be able to convert the fee they paid into Ultra X race credit. This credit will be redeemable against any races operated by the Ultra X group for a period of up to 3 years. That includes Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse.
Registered entries to all 3 races will be contacted shortly with further details.
The acquisition marks an important moment for Ultra X as it continues to invest in world-class adventure and ultra-endurance experiences. Both races have built passionate communities, distinctive identities and hard-earned reputations for delivering unforgettable journeys through some of Britain’s most spectacular landscapes.
Crucially, both Dragon’s Back Race and Northern Traverse will remain entirely separate brands from Ultra X. Their character and positioning within the market will be preserved and respected.
Looking ahead, Ultra X’s aims for the two events are centred on stability, stewardship and measured/sustainable growth.
The acquisition reflects Ultra X’s broader vision of building a portfolio of exceptional endurance events that inspire people through adventure, challenge and exploration.
Registrations to the 2026 edition of Dragon’s Back have now re-opened, and registrations to the 2027 Northern Traverse will re-open soon. Further information can be found on the respective websites.