with the Clwydian Range Runners

On June 7th, the idyllic afternoon set the stage for the highly anticipated encounter with The Beast, an infamous annual race held in Maeshafn. The event is organized by Dan Hurst and the Clwydian Range Runners, a friendly group of running enthusiasts who delight in conquering the hills and mountains of North Wales while fostering a spirit of relaxation and enjoyment in hill and mountain running.

Part of a race series supported by the Welsh Fell Runners Association, The Beast takes place on Wednesdays between June and July. Other races in the series include the Hot Foot Up in Moel Famau on June 14th, The Druid on July 5th , the Green Green Grass on July 19th, and the Ponderosa on July 26th. Additionally, a winter version of the race, called the Dash in the Dark, is held in Llandegla on November 3rd. Participants, numbering 83, gathered on the Maeshafn playing field for registration. People of all ages and skill levels, representing both running clubs and individual entrants, joined in. Due to refurbishments, the usual meeting point at the Miners Arms was temporarily closed. The £4 admission fees collected not only went towards prizes but also served as donations to NEWSAR (North East Wales Search And Rescue), aiding in raising awareness of their crucial work and ensuring their presence throughout the race to provide assistance if needed.

The race covered a challenging course of 7.5km, ascending to an altitude of 430m. Runners navigated through the Big Covert, circumvented Burley Hill Quarry, and faced the most arduous segment on Bryn Alyn, where they had to scramble uphill using their hands before making their way back to Maeshafn. The current record for the fastest male participant stands at an impressive 36 minutes, while the record for the fastest female participant is 46 minutes. Notably, an 83-yearold participant has showcased remarkable endurance and determination.

Joel Gnomes emerged as the triumphant winner of this edition, completing the race in a remarkable 37 minutes. Joel received a well-deserved trophy, along with refreshing beverages and some chocolates. Additionally, the largest group of participants was awarded a generous 50kg bag of potatoes to share among themselves.

For further details on upcoming races, please refer to the Clwydian Range Runners Facebook page or visit their website at clwydianrangerunners.co.uk

Jodie, 18 years old, Chester

How did you hear about the Beast?

I found out about it through Facebook. One of my coaches from West Cheshire Athletics Club posted about it, and it caught my interest.

Why are you participating?

The race is relatively local, not too far away. I simply enjoy trail running, so I thought I’d give it a try. I did it for the first time last year and finished in about 51 minutes.

What do you like about it?

It’s just different, you know? The scenery is fantastic, and running in a scenic environment is always enjoyable compared to running on flat roads. It adds a level of interest to the experience.

Debbie, 65 years old, Frodsham, Helby Club

How did you hear about the race? By the running club. It’s part of their competition. It’s part of their competition and club events. We have many social runs. I’ve already done the Beat five or six times in the past.

So what was your best timing here?

I don’t know. I just come for the scenery!! I enjoy the race as I’ve done it before. And I love the hills, the mountains? I like to run different place…

Sean, 32 years old, Runcorn, individual runner

Why do you like to come to the race? One of the main reasons is that it’s a local race, and the entry fee is affordable at £4. It’s a fantastic event with plenty of climbs. I’ve only done it once before, but there’s nothing quite like running on trails when the sun is shining.

What is the hardest part of it ? This year the challenge is to finish, as last year, I got to the top of the second climb but got picked up by an ambulance because I rolled my ankle… put me out for six weeks!!

Derek, 58 years old, Spital-Wirral, Wirral Vikings club

How did you hear about the race? It’s something I’ve done in the previous years. I’ve not done it since covid. So with it being a nice evening, I thought it was a good opportunity to get out the house and stretch my legs.

What do you like about it?

I like this part of the world? Like I say, it’s better than just sitting in the house of an evening. You get out, get some exercise, see some nice countryside.

Do you run regulary?

A couple of times a week. So I’ll be nowhere near the front. I’ll be, uh, somewhere near the back. But I’ll enjoy myself and, maybe have a beer or something afterwards just to reward myself.

So what do you think is the best side of the race? The finish is the best, and I guess the worst bits of the hills. But they’re quite character building and a bit of a scramble here and there. But like I say, you just do your best and just go for it!