One of the UK’s toughest, most picturesque and friendly marathons has become one of the most popular too, as all 2700 places for the 34th Brooks Snowdonia Marathon Eryri were snapped up in just 12 hours after opening on the 1st of January.
The 2016 race takes place on Saturday the 29th of October, with its traditional start time of 10.30am.
Last year’s event filled to its 2700 capacity in 2 days, however the popularity of the 2016 race even outstripped race co-ordinator Jayne Lloyd’s expectations:
“I’m delighted that our event has filled so quickly this year. It’s a tribute to the hard work of our team and to the great welcome our runners receive from the local community. The race has grown in popularity over the years and has developed in to something really special, 2016 looks to be no exception to that. I’m really looking forward to seeing some old faces and a few well known new ones on our start line in October.”
Last year’s event was notable for the fact that the biggest field ever took to the roads of Snowdonia, embarking on what is considered one of the most stunning 26.2 mile races on the UK calendar. The mere fact that the race takes in an elevation of almost 3000ft marks it out as one of the most brutally tough too.
With last year’s women’s champion Tracy McCartney set to to return, alongside 2015 men’s runner-up Mike Kallenberg, competition for the coveted winners’ trophies will once again be fierce.
Also taking to the start line in 2016 will be Welsh rugby great Shane Williams MBE who will be running the race as part of a year of running and triathlon challenges which include the Buff Winter Trail Wales in January and the Wales Ironman event this summer. Shane, along with a group of fellow fundraisers, will be taking part in aid of south Wales cancer charity Velindre Cancer Centre. Commenting on the race the former British Lions wing stated:
“I’m really looking forward to coming to Snowdonia! It’s a great Welsh marathon and I know it’s going to be a big challenge, but can’t wait!”
