Husband and wife Martin and Carla Green led way at wet and windy Conwy Parkrun

Report by Don Hale.
https://donhaleblog.blogspot.com

It was back to the cold wind, rain, and numerous puddles on the Conwy 5k parkrun course on Saturday, December 15, as 200 mixed-ability athletes returned following a few weeks of stop, starts, and cancellations due to various storms.

This week’s event also paid an emotional tribute to former regular parkrunner Rob Porter, who sadly lost his life whilst taking part at a similar event at Conwy almost exactly 5-years ago.

North Wales Road Runners entered 13 members with Martin Green leading the team home in 6th place overall, and he was 2nd in his VM50 age cat in 19.32.

There a real battle of Wills for the next placings with Will Evans and Will Williams in close pursuit, and finishing just a few seconds and in consecutive places just behind Martin.

Will Evans finished 7th with a new PB in 19.35 and was 2nd VM40, with Will Williams 8th, and 3rd VM50 in
19.39.

Stuart Culverhouse took 15th place in 20.39, and Harry Driscoll was 26th in 22.44.

Carla Green was 3rd female finisher, and won her VW50 age cat in 22.59, with Richard Scamans 37th in 23.19. Daniel Owens ran with his very able guide Iain Burgess once again, and finished well in 44th, with Iain sharing the same time of 24.21.

Mollie Evans was 46th with a new PB of 24.38, and 2nd SW20 age cat, whilst in-form master vet Rob Fryer was 1st VM70 with a determined run in 25.57, and fellow master Don Hale was 3rd in the same age group, positioning 80th in 27.19.

Mark Davies continued his incredible recovery journey with another PB on his 8th Conwy parkrun this year, finishing in 137th place in 32.40. Steve Mason and his dog Coco were tail walkers again this week among the 200 finishers.

The 1st finisher overall was VM40 athlete Simon Cole (GOG Triathlon) in 17.09, but he had an exciting battle with SM18 runner Cai Curtis-Roberts, who was just one second and one place behind, with VM35
Dave Hughes 3rd with a new PB in 17.30.

The 1st female finisher (and 14th overall) was Tamsin Seguin (Menai Track & Field) on her course debut in 20.24, with SW20 athlete Amelia Anderson (Tristars) 2nd (29th overall) in 22.53, and VW50 athlete Carla Green (NWRRC) 3rd (31st overall), in 22.59.
*Praise was given to the run director and to all the volunteers and marshals. This is a link to the provisional results from Conwy:
https://www.parkrun.org.uk/conwy/results/latestresults/

Menai Suspension Bridge is back in the race!

Report by Don Hale & Emma McIntyre

Following numerous sporting problems caused by successive storms across North Wales in recent weeks, we can now confirm something positive and uplifting with news that the ever-popular 2025 Jones o Gymru Anglesey Half Marathon & 10k, will again include the famous Menai Suspension Bridge next March.

This announcement is an exciting and welcome update for hundreds of runners, and especially for local charities and fundraisers, as for the first time in three years, the iconic Suspension Bridge will be back as a key attraction within the race route!

Now in its 14th year, this much-loved event has historically started at the famous Menai landmark, attracting runners from across the country, and beyond, to this stunning starting line.

However, since October 2022, essential maintenance work temporarily removed the Bridge from the course, yet now, with the completion of these works, event organisers Always Aim High (AAH) Events are thrilled to announce its triumphant return.

AAH managing director Nigel Kendrick shared his excitement, saying: “We are absolutely thrilled to have the iconic bridge back at the heart of the event. This isn’t just fantastic news for us and the race itself, but also a wonderful boost for the town of Menai Bridge and the wider community.”

On Sunday 2nd March 2025, the start and finish lines will still remain at Wood Street in Menai Bridge, but the restored route will now include two crossings of the Suspension Bridge, offering participants two
opportunities to enjoy its breathtaking views.
 

From seasoned runners chasing a personal best to first-timers and fundraisers, the event’s undulating course is the perfect challenge for all abilities. Families won’t be left out either, with the Dragons Dash Kids Race, a 1.2-mile event for children as young as five, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The 2025 event will also support Alder Hey Children’s Charity, which provides care for 450,000 young patients annually, including over 3,257 children from North Wales who needed expert care last year.

If anyone wants to fundraise, please tick the box on your booking form when entering. There is no minimum amount, but every penny counts – and anyone who commits to raising more than £100 will receive a free running shirt from the charity. If you would like to apply for a free charity place (minimum sponsorship £200) please contact
joanne.bartels@alderhey.nhs.uk
*Entries are now open, so runners are advised to secure a place asap:
https://alwaysaimhighevents.com/events/anglesey-half-marathon-and-10k-2025