The route to be run anti-clockwise in 2024.
General Race Information:
Navigational Skills (NS) is required as a condition of entry. NS means map and compass. You may be asked to confirm you have appropriate traditional navigational skills or experience, noting that the use of GPS for navigational purposes is not allowed, (except in an emergency) – any competitor using such a device will be classed in results as NC (non competitive).
Fell running experience (ER) is also a condition of entry. This race is not suitable for those who are inexperienced or unfit. Despite entering the race via Fabian4, the Race Organiser will request prospective competitors to demonstrate that they have sufficient fell running experience.
Kit: Bring full kit (if you don’t know what this means, then this race ain’t for you). Kit check at start and finish. Please note that the weather is frequently inclement (even in July) with waterproofs being required on several occasions.
As usual, no prizes – just the warm glow that you’ve beaten your adversaries. We will meet up for a few drinks in the pub post race.
IMPORTANT: This year the race returns to the traditional anti-clockwise route.
Please also note that there is a cut off time of 120 minutes at Fan Nedd. Competitors will be compulsorily retired from the race if they do not make this time. So, please be sure you can achieve this (and then of course finish the remainder of the race safely). We should be able to accommodate an early start (10:30) for those who are slower than average (but have appropriate fellrunning experience).
If you have any doubt over your experience, please contact me (the RO) beforehand – this will avoid any possibility that you will be refused entry on the day.
Stats: 18km/ 1200m – 11 miles/ 3900ft
This is a Category ‘A’ Medium distance race.
The Course
The map indicates a possible route that competitors may wish to follow, but please note that this may not be the optimum route and that, for fine navigation purposes, competitors should carry their own map of the area. The race includes 4 checkpoints which must be visited in the correct order, namely:
CP1 - Fan Frynych trig point, GR SN 958228
CP2 - Fan Nedd trig point, GR SN 913184
CP3 - Fan Llia (true) summit which is almost entirely unmarked, GR SN 938186
CP4 - Fan Fawr cairn, (not the trig point) GR SN 969193
Fences & Walls: If you jump a fence or wall, you will be disqualified from this and all future races. Please only use the stiles (local knowledge may be helpful here).
Hazards: Competitors should expect to face a range of hazards usually expected of a fell race, across remote and rough hilly terrain. These hazards may be exacerbated by the weather likely to be encountered. So please bring appropriate kit and ensure you have the necessary skills and experience to deal with the conditions likely to be encountered. Specific hazards to note, include:
Road Crossings: You will need to cross (and re-cross) the Heol Senni mountain road. These road crossings are not marshalled and competitors should take every care when crossing and must give way to vehicles which have the right of way.
River Crossings: There are two river crossings (Afon Llia and the confluence of the Nant y Gwair and Nant y Gaseg). It is the competitor's responsibility to judge whether it is safe to cross these rivers and to select an appropriately safe place to cross in light of the prevailing weather conditions and water levels. If in doubt, competitors should consider heading up stream where the water flow/ levels tend to be lower and/ or take an alternative route.
Dogs: This is sheep country - no dogs (apart from registered service dogs).
Emergency Procedure
In the event of a medical or other emergency (where you are immobilised), summon help by using your whistle to give the emergency signal – six blasts repeated every minute. Ignore any three blast replies – keep blowing the whistle until help arrives. If you are mobile, make yourself highly visible and move safely to the nearest checkpoint, road, or main footpath to seek assistance.
If you have a phone, call the Race Organiser (07809 404181) or send a text (remember a text may get through when a call won’t), stating your position as accurately as possible, and race number. If you do have to summon a Mountain Rescue Team yourself:
· Dial 112 (preferably) or 999 if that doesn’t work
· Ask for Police, then ask the Police for Mountain Rescue
· Tell them where you are, preferably with a full grid reference including the letters – the operator may be miles away!
· Tell them the problem (injuries, hypothermia etc)
· Keep your phone switched on and stay by it
If you do retire, the golden rule is to tell the Race Organiser (and return your Fabian4 wristband) before leaving the area – this will prevent a needless rescue operation being initiated.
