The Elan Valley 10 mile Road Race, took place on Saturday, November 17 in wonderful Welsh sunshine.
The conditions were perfect for running and and 192 runners took part in the race, an increase in numbers from 162 the previous year. Competitors travelled to the race from various parts of Wales, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire.
There were also runners from Thames Hare and Hounds, who train on Wimbledon Common but are definitely not Wombles, and a runner from Cork in Ireland.
John Walshe was the runner from Cork. He is well known in Irish running circles and is a contributor to a number of newspapers and magazines in his home country.
The race was started at 1pm by Rhayader Running Club member Chris Martin and all 192 starters completed the race.
The winner of the men’s race was Ross Jones, Ebbw Vale Running Club, in a time of 61 minutes 46 seconds. He was followed home by Dominic Jenkins (62.09) and Matt Prior, Les Croupliers Running Club (63.12).
The first woman to finish was Rebekah Prior, Thames Hare and Hounds in a time of 66 minutes 33 seconds.
She was followed home by Caryl Davies, Sarn Helen Running Club (70.50) and Kate Stubbs (71.53) who was last year’s female winner.
Thanks again go to Elan Valley Visitor Centre for the use of their facilities and also the provision of refreshments after the race. Thanks also go to club members and local people who supported and marshalled the course.
Full race results can be obtained by visiting the Club website: www.rhayaderac.org.uk