Not just a marathon, but a marathon run in the epicentre of storm Antoni (yes! A named storm and so severe it was credited as a threat to life at some point by the meteorologist’s) What should have been a pleasant experience, turned out to be quite the opposite. In Dan’s own words “it’s still a brilliant race! I’ll be back next year”
The Cybi Coastal is partially way-marked and follows the paths, tracks, beaches and coastline of the Welsh national/Anglesey Coastal Path. The entire route passes through magnificent coastline scenery with fine views of wide bays, sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, the famous South Stack lighthouse and the summit of Holyhead Mountain. Starting in the port town of Holyhead this race takes you on a variety of surfaces. Easy going paved paths, a small amount of road sections, sandy beaches, fields and single tracks. Tricky cliff tops and with a few good hill climbs and to top it all off a short sharp climb to the top of Holyhead Mountain and back down to sea level. Dan massively under estimated the Storm Antoni! Just walking fully waterproofed up to the registration he got absolutely soaked! Runners set off in lashing rain and storm force winds that persisted for approximately 13 miles. Rain and winds eased at that point albeit only briefly, with the wind picking up again towards the end but only light rain. Organisers rerouted the course to avoid runners having to go over the top of Holyhead Mountain. I don’t think results matter in cases like this, it’s amazing that runners completed it. All in all Dan put in a monumental performance and can take pride in finishing such a dangerous encounter and living to tell the tail. Fantastic running Dan, extremely well done!
