Scott Snowdonia Trail Marathon

There was also a mini Orangegrove exodus to Wales this weekend for the Scott Snowdonia Trail Marathon which will take place on Sunday 26th July in the vicinity of Llanberis. Those attempting the full marathon will travel the usual 26 miles but, in addition, will ascend 1685m in the process.

The marathon route is basically a circumnavigation of Snowden through Rhyd Ddu, Beddgelert, Nant Gwynant, Pen y Pass with an ascent of Snowden itself. The half marathon option takes in a number of the above locations but also the Padarn Country Park in the vicinity of the Dinorwig Slate Mines. Members of Orangegrove in Wales this weekend would appear to be Thomas Leitch, Liz Leitch, Sharon Dickenson and Darren Marshall.

My information is that Thomas will run the full marathon distance, while Sharon and Darren will opt for the half marathon. May luck be with them and may they both embrace and enjoy the challenge and return to Northern Ireland fulfilled if not refreshed. The weather forecast for Sunday is far from favourable and it is likely that rain and low visibility will add to the excitement on the day.

Results from Wales:

Full Marathon (actually 29 miles!)

Half Marathon

Superb running from the Orangegrove trio, particularly from Thomas in the full marathon which turned out to be more than full with an extra three miles in the worst possible conditions. A most excellent result in a very prestigious event. Clearly a season of Hill and Dale in the Mournes did him no harm at all.

Very well done too to Darren in the half marathon. Sharon injured herself early on but kept going to the bitter end. All three deserve the admiration of everybody at Orangegrove. Particular thanks to Liz for her usual organization and support on the day. Medical treatment was required by all three at the end from the doctor on call. There are possibly easier ways to spend your Sunday! Any beer they might drink this evening is well deserved.

Tags: Half Marathon, Marathon, Snowdonia, trail