From challenging local trails to the world triathlon stage, Sarn Helen athletes have plenty to celebrate, with a victory for Rory Fairhurst, an extraordinary ultra-triathlon performance from Teifion Davies and another world gold medal for Emma Palfrey.
Pumpsaint.. another success!
Alongside the Pumpsaint Half Marathon, runners could take on a 10K trail fun run—although, with the amount of climbing involved, some might question the “fun” description!
Seven Sarn Helen runners chose this challenging option. Rory Fairhurst led the way, finishing first overall in an excellent 50:48. Ioan Lloyd finished in 1:01:29, followed by Heiddwen Tomos in 1:12:15, Arwyn Jones in 1:12:49, Ella Phillips in 1:13:13, Vicky Phillips in 1:13:28 and Tony Hall in 1:15:36.
Teifion conquers the Brutal Triple
Teifion Davies thrives on a challenge, but his latest was his greatest yet. Taking on the Brutal Triathlon Goron (Triple) in Llanberis, he completed an extreme continuous ultra-triathlon to finish second overall in 54 hours, 35 minutes and 11 seconds, including transitions.
The event began at 7am with a 7.2-mile swim in Llyn Padarn, which Teifion completed in 5:07:01. He then tackled a 347-mile cycle, following repeated undulating laps on open roads through Eryri, including the climb to Pen y Pass. His time on the bike was an astonishing 24:47:50.
The final challenge was a 78-mile run, beginning with an ascent and descent of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), followed by hilly off-road laps. Teifion completed the mountain section in 2:58:08, with the remaining running taking 20:37:38.
He crossed the finish line at 1.30pm on Monday, having taken just one 20-minute break throughout the entire challenge. His reaction afterwards said it all: “I enjoyed it all the way.”
Teifion undertook this immense challenge in memory of his grandfather, who died from prostate cancer, and to raise money for charity. Anyone wishing to support his fundraising can donate through his JustGiving page.
He was also keen to emphasise that this was a team effort, thanking his family and friends for their tremendous support throughout. An incredible achievement, Teifion!
Welsh honours at the Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean Autumn Half Marathon takes a slightly different route from the spring event, following forest trails with no road crossings. Its challenging hills are rewarded with beautiful woodland scenery as the late-summer canopy gives way to autumn colours.
Mike Davies had the honour of wearing the Welsh vest once again and produced a strong performance, finishing sixth in the MV55 category in 1:30:36. Carwyn Davies also enjoyed a good race, crossing the line in 1:44:03.
Emma strikes world gold again
Emma Palfrey is a world champion once again after claiming another gold medal as part of the mixed relay team at the sprint triathlon event in Pontevedra, Spain.
Emma also achieved an outstanding fourth place in the individual sprint triathlon, rounding off a remarkable set of results.
Her success reflects the enormous amount of training and dedication she gives to the sport. Congratulations, Emma, on another fantastic achievement!