Race Report from Glen at the TEC Brecon Beacons Long Half Marathon (26.52 km, 856m elevation) on Saturday 4th May.

I found myself pining for a bit of adventure last week and got myself a late entry to TEC Brecon Beacons for today. I enjoy trail running and knew this would be stunning but also quite tough. It was going to be a good proxy for the usual weekend long run so why not!

I had an early start and made it to Talybont-on-Usk just before 09:00. Definitely a ‘no frills’ organisation affair and was glad to get on the move at 09:30. A slow gradual ascent up a valley for the first 7km or so, and things were getting more beautiful by the minute. Weather was good but it was very muddy. Things got steeper for another 3km before a long descent to the first feed station. Probably some of the most technical trails I’ve been on, was very difficult to get in a rhythm and still scratching my head now as to how my ankles are intact.

Refreshed, it was time for the second steep climb of the day. No one was running this segment but the ascent was worth it, as there was an incredible ridge run at the top to enjoy, looking out across the beacons. Another 4km descent followed, very uneven and muddy, but at least the sun was shining. The final 50m to the next feed station was shin-high mud, not sure my trail shoes are going to recover

5km to go from there, all downhill on the road and along the towpath, and I was picking up some pace. I finished strong despite just plodding round most of the course for fun. Over the line in 03:46:17.

Legs are smashed and I’m pretty tired but I loved it all, really good to be out there!!