This weekend's Marathon Eryri has been cancelled due to severe weather caused by Storm Austen, which has battered North Wales with gale-force winds and torrential rain. Organisers said the decision was made after a course assessment deemed the route unsafe, with wind gusts, tree debris and flooding reported.
Storm Causes Widespread Disruption
Storm Austen hit different parts of Wales on Friday, bringing train cancellations and fallen trees as fierce winds and heavy rain swept through the region. Weather warnings remained in force throughout the day, with more wet and windy conditions forecast for Saturday.
The event, which begins and finishes in Llanberis and is renowned as the UK's toughest marathon, was scheduled to take place this weekend. The cancellation follows what organisers described as a "long and difficult week" as they tried to ensure the race could go ahead.
Organisers' Statement
In a statement released this evening, organisers said: "It's been a long and difficult week for us all here at Marathon Eryri and we'd like to thank you all for your patience whilst we have been trying our best to get the race on for our amazing runners."
They added: "Following today's course assessment, our Course Management team deemed the course unsafe, with wind gusts, tree debris and flooding across the course. We've been taking advice from all the sources we can, and consulting with safety experts."
"Though conditions have eased this evening, unfortunately the forecast for tomorrow has worsened considerably and we have had to make the regrettable decision to cancel this year's Marathon Eryri."
Deferral and Future Plans
Organisers said they are "heartbroken" but must prioritise the safety of everyone involved, including marshals who can be out on the course for over eight hours. They confirmed that all runners' places will be deferred to next year, with further details to be emailed to participants.
The statement concluded: "This race has over 40 years of history, and one of the most loyal and cherished communities in the world of running, long may that continue. Love from us all at Tîm Eryri."
