A 68-year-old man has died while taking part in the Fan Dance, a 15-mile endurance event used in SAS selection, on Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons. Emergency services were called to Bannau Brycheinog National Park at around 11am on Saturday 4 July following welfare concerns for the participant.
Details of the Incident
The man was understood to be competing in the Fan Dance, which race organisers Avalanche Endurance Events (AEE) describe as a "gruelling SAS Selection test march" staged over south Wales' highest peak. The event is known as the world's oldest and most famous SAS selection test and is organised by veteran SAS soldiers. Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the man's next of kin have been informed and that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
Response from Organisers and Emergency Services
In a statement, AEE director Ken Jones expressed condolences: "At this immediate time our focus and thoughts are with the family, therefore, AEE, nor I as the March Director will issue any further press release until the family is in possession of the full timeline of events and approve any further messaging." He added: "Our team is working on this at the time of posting. I wish to express my thanks to the Air Ambulance Service, Brecon Mountain Rescue Team and AEE's Mountain Safety Team for their swift response and professionalism."
Dyfed-Powys Police stated: "We received a call following welfare concerns for a male on Pen y Fan at around 11am on Saturday 4 July. Officers attended alongside Mountain Rescue and the Ambulance Service. Sadly, the 68-year-old man passed away."
Impact and Context
The Fan Dance is a notoriously challenging event that involves carrying a heavy pack over rugged terrain. This incident highlights the risks associated with extreme endurance activities, even for experienced participants. AEE has said it will not comment further until the family approves any additional messaging.
