Nick Beer 10K anniversary race finally given green light

Report by Don Hale. Most photographs by Steve Jeffery

Organisers of the ever-popular Nick Beer 10k race around Llandudno’s famous Great Orme have finally been given the green light by the Welsh Government and Welsh Athletics and are now back on track to stage their commemorative 30th anniversary event on Sunday, February 13th.

This latest news came as a welcome boost to race directors John and Kay Hatton from event hosts North Wales Road Running Club, following the lifting last weekend of Covid-19 restrictions, which now permits up to 500 people to attend outdoor activities.

It will also come as a huge relief for runners of all ages and abilities, and from all parts of the UK and abroad, to accept that they will be able to take part and share in the excitement of competing in this scenic, yet challenging race.

It is expected that all normal services will be resumed following last year’s pandemic prohibitions, which meant the usual February date had to be hastily re-arranged to a very hot day in July.

And yet, despite all these problems, the event still raised over £2,500 for St David’s Hospice and the Lions Club of Llandudno charities.

Race officials John and Kay Hatton have supervised this prestigious 10k race for over 20 years and were delighted to receive confirmation that outdoor numbers have been increased from 50 to 500 runners, with the probability the limit may be increased again before the race date.

John also explained that athletes will also be able to collect the final part of a unique three-year medal set on completing this year’s exciting 10k anniversary run. And in addition, there is also a special fun-run for children on the prom just before the start of the main event.

Starting and finishing on Llandudno promenade, opposite the Imperial Hotel, and incorporating a tough climb around the spectacular Great Orme and back, this 30th annual 10k charity race will help to commemorate the life of a former well-known athlete, Nick Beer, who sadly passed away, three decades ago, just after completing the Lake Vyrnwy half-marathon, and following his brave battle with hydrocephalus.

John Hatton provided some background to the origin of this race and explained: “Nick joined NWRRC from Colwyn Bay AC, and his smile soon made lots of friends. He was there at every race. He tried and tried until his improvements staggered us all, and you could always rely on that smile at the finishing post.

“We all need occasional laughter to make us feel good, and Nick provided that in abundance. His presence was welcome, pervasive, selflessly giving, and never asking the price. Nick was living with hydrocephalus and passed away aged 27, at the Lake Vyrnwy race in September 1992.

“Maybe when we run his race each year, it will remind us of the importance and positive results that trying hard and participating can bring. Nick Beer was a true son of the sporting ethic, who left us with a wealth of fond memories, and a legacy of inspiration.”

The organisers, who say they have understood the hesitancy of entering the race due to previous Welsh Government restrictions, but now urge all interested parties to enter as soon as possible, as they anticipate a bumper response for this special anniversary race, and the fact that so many runners couldn’t take part last year due to problems associated with the pandemic.

Race headquarters is at Venue Cymru on Llandudno promenade. 10k start Time: 12-noon. The cost of entries is £17 affiliated and £19 non-affiliated, and if you enter after midnight on Thursday, February 3rd, you will need to collect your number on race day from registration, between 9.30 and 11.30. Online entries are expected to close at midnight on Thursday, 10th February.

Cash Prizes will be awarded in many categories, with further awards also available, including a prize of £150 for breaking the course record, and £250 for breaking the record and finishing under 30 mins. NOTE: If anyone is available to help marshal on the day, please contact asap.

For further details please contact the event organisers: http://www.nwrrc.co.uk

*Email contact: greenc72@gmail.com

*PLEASE USE THIS LINK TO REGISTER FOR THE 2022 NICK BEER 10K:
https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=5402