Endurancelife Coastal Trail Series: Stage 5 - Pembrokeshire (Marathon, Half Marathon or 10K)
The Best in the West?
Will Turner (Endurancelife) / 18.03.2009
As the 430 strong field of adventurous runners started to trickle their way into the picturesque coastal village of Little Haven in South Pembrokeshire, everyone was struggling to believe just how fantastic the weather was – again! The Coastal Trail Series has seen its fair share of bad weather over the years, but 2009 has seen a change of fortune allowing these stunning race locations to be displayed in all their glory.This stage of the Coastal Trail Series was hosted in yet another special location, in Britain’s only Coastal National Park, Pembrokeshire. A must-visit destination of the UK, the field had a truly international feel about it with numerous Kiwis, Aussies, S Africans and mainland Europeans in the field. There was also a strong and ever-cheerful Irish presence, making the journey across the pond on a popular ferry route.
With all participants registered and safety briefed for their respective race (Marathon, Half Marathon or 10K), it was ready for the off. Starting from the seafront, runners soon found themselves negotiating this wonderful stretch of coastline. They soon realised why it is an entry requirement to wear trail shoes, as the slippery mud and exposure cliff paths was ever-more apparent.
The route followed the coast path, working its way south west. The sun beat down as runners weaved their way in and out of the quiet sandstone coves and along rocky cliff edges. This section offered magnificent views over the Atlantic, with numerous mega sized tankers awaiting entry into the UK’s largest natural harbour, Milford Haven. As an area renowned for it marine and wildlife, some runners even caught sight of seals and rare sea birds – a welcomed distraction from the challenging terrain!
Once all runners had completed over half of their distance, the route turned inland across some fine Welsh countryside. A short section back on the coast path and finish-bay was in sight. A gentle downhill assisted tired runners across the line, where supporters gathered to cheer and applaud.
After collecting their finishers’ medal, Tshirt and meal, many headed straight for the pub to watch the nation’s beloved game (rugby). Others opted for a slightly different means of refreshment, choosing to ‘cool-down’ with a stroll along the water’s edge of the beach.
With only two stages remaining of this epic trail running series, the demand for places in the series very high. Only a handful of places remain in the Stage 6: Cornwall event and the final and awesome) event, Stage 7: Exmoor. To book your place, please visit www.endurancelife.com.
Congratulations to all those who took part at Pembrokeshire, and we look forward to seeing you all soon!See All Event Posts
