What does AL mean in fell racing?

AL means it's a long race (20km or more) with category A climbing—at least 50 metres of ascent per kilometre. Basically, you're in for several hours of serious uphill work across mountain terrain.

Does an AL race mean I need to navigate with a map and compass?

No, the AL code only tells you about distance and climbing, not navigation. Some AL races are well-marked with flags, while others require full navigation skills—you need to check the individual race details to know which.

What's the difference between AS and AL fell races?

AS races are short but steep—under 10km with category A climbing, often over in under an hour but brutal. AL races are 20km or more with the same serious climbing, requiring endurance and pacing over several hours.

Trail Running and Fell Running

What AL Means in Fell Racing: Category A for Severity, Long for Distance

AL is the Fell Runners Association code for a category A race—long distance and serious ascent—not a navigation requirement or a promise that the route is unmarked. Whether you need to navigate depends on the individual race, the weather, and how well the course is flagged on the day.

17 August 20268 min read