Brecon Fans Races

77 runners were not deterred by the forecast of relentless rain and low cloud, but 38 didn't show up at all.

20 slower runners were allowed an early start, 30 minutes before the main race - this was definitely a mixed blessing, popular with these runners, but making everything more complicated for marshals and RO.

Although the temperature was benign, conditions were pretty tough with poor visibility on higher ground, rain and blustery winds. Things did slightly improve as the day went on, and the sun was even glimpsed by the time all runners were back and enjoying tea, cake and beer in the village hall.

Despite the distance, the race was not too spread out, and very competitive. The main decision for runners was whether to re-ascend Pen y Fan by the usual race line via Corn Du, or take the direct and near vertical route up the rough ground. A handful opted for the latter including women's winner, but we'll need to study some Strava tracks to see which was better.

Peter Sammon (Unattached) won the race by about 30 seconds, in 3:19:11, managing to keep ahead of a fast-descending Will Evans (CDF). 3rd place went to Robin Woods from Builth

Katy Ironside was a clear winner in the women's race, in 3:43:08, with Nat Taylor second, just under the four hour mark, and Rose Lewis in third.

Mynydd Du took the men's team prize with solid performances from Steve Hepton, Ian Whistance and Steven Priestnall.

There was no women's team.

The verdict for this new race seemed hugely positive, and we'll certainly think about holding it again in future. But next year will be back to normal: Pen y Fan Race and Fan y Big Race on separate days.

Thanks as always to the marshals: Robin Flower, Mike, Sally, Andrew and Tony Law, Cara Perfrement (sweeper), Robert Flower, Debbie Nicholson, Adam Loverock, Stewart Bellamy, and to Dave Austin and Fabian 4 for timing and online entry.

Photos coming soon. See full results on Racetek.

Summary results and prize winners