*Pictured above - Steve Bozier was the first NWRRC member back at the Eryri marathon in North Wales.
Hundreds of athletes tackled the iconic Marathon Eryri on its 40th anniversary.
Report by Don Hale. Some photos by Dave Jones and others.
Nine North Wales Road Runners were involved with the gruelling challenge of the famous Marathon Eryri last Saturday morning, which started and finished at Llanberis in the Snowdonia National Park, and this year celebrated its 40th anniversary.
Run over mountain trails, farm tracks, and tarmac, it’s one of the toughest ever marathons, yet it also included some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK.
The event has twice been voted the Best British Marathon, and the demanding course which encircles Yr Wyddfa – the highest peak in Wales – has served to makes this an iconic event in the running calendar.
Steve Bozier was back to his best following some recent injuries and led home the NWRRC team to finish in 3 hrs 54 mins and 31 seconds. He was followed by Cheryl Frost, who had a determined run in 4.28.42, whilst Adam Lemalle ran his first-ever marathon, and performed really well in 4.31.13.
*Kevin Slattery (above left), with Steve Roberts and Cheryl Frost.
Steve Roberts, who has recently celebrated his 60th birthday also seemed satisfied with his run in 4.38.00, and club chairman Kevin Slattery was also on song in 4.53.50. Gwen Charlton claimed a new marathon PB in 5.19.47, and Rachel Morris put in a gritty and determined performance to finish in 6.59.51.
*There were plaudits too for the race organisers, and to all the volunteers and marshalls, with additional praise awarded to NWRRC couple Ben and Sarah Ferguson, who bravely acted as race sweepers, ensured that everyone returned home safely, and eventually recorded a time of 7 hours and 14 minutes.
*Steve Bozier (above left) gets a warm hug from his daughter Amber at the finish after completing his race, with Adam Lemalle, and Cheryl Frost.
After the race, Steve Bozier commented: “What a lovely day for a jog in the most beautiful place there is! Well-done to everyone who ran it today and I’m suffering for it now! And thanks to all the amazing people who supported and sponsored me raising over £500 for Tenovus Cancer Care / Gofal Canser Tenovus. Do I give up marathons (again) or just carry on regardless?”
Marathon debutant Adam Lemalle (*pictured above), said: “That was actually unbelievable. What a race. I have nothing left! Well, to say that was hard would be an understatement. First ever marathon complete: 4.31.13, but what a stunning race it was - beautiful weather, perfect conditions, and amazing support right the way through. I am completely empty.”
And Rachel Morris added: “That was so hard, but amazing to be part of such a tough marathon. Even more so that it was the 40th anniversary for the marathon. Support on route was amazing, and so nice to see familiar faces. Can’t walk right now but nothing a few ‘seccos’ won’t sort.”