Cwmbran runner first to thunder down Snowdon
Cwmbran’s Matthew Collins was the first Welshman home in the gruelling, ten-mile International Snowdon Race last weekend (Saturday 28 July 2007). The 28-year-old has dominated the South Wales fell racing scene this season and managed to finish 14th overall, having clocked a time of 1:13:52. Salford Harrier Andi Jones – who finished 10th in this year’s London Marathon - defended his title comfortably. He finished the route, which takes runners from the edge of Lake Padarn in the village of Llanberis to the mountain summit and back down, in 1:05:38 – a clear winner by more than two minutes. Richard Roberts, 28, from Bethesda gave the North Wales crowds plenty to cheer coming home in 16th place and as second Welshman. Just two spots behind, Harry matthews also finished inside the top 20.
The International Snowdon Race is one of Europe’s toughest challenges and attracts a field of 450 runners. Anna Bartlett, 37, from Shrewsbury continued her rich vein of form finishing fifth overall in the ladies category and was the first Welshwoman to cross the line.
Rhos on Sea’s Andrea Roberts impressed by finishing 12th, despite the fact is it was just her second international outing. The 33-year-old has shown a significant improvement over the last 12 months.
Despite the ruthless test, teams and supporters travel from Italy, France, England, Scotland, Ireland and of course Wales to compete.
The race is twinned with the longest running mountain race in Italy - the Trofeo Vanoni which celebrates it's 50th anniversary in October. The first three British male and top two female runners to finish Snowdon will now be invited to run as a team in this event.
As a result of the close relationships built up between the two races, Llanberis and Morbegno are now twinned towns and social and cultural exchange visits are now regularly held throughout the year.
The race's record has been held for 18 years by K Stuart. He completed the challenge in one hour, two minutes and 29 seconds in 1985.
The event is supported by Snowdon Mountain Railway, First Hydro, Royal Victoria Hotel, Gwynedd County Council Events Commission and Llanberis Community Council.
For more information, please contact Jane Williams on 029 2033 8274
or visit www.snowdonrace.com
