As a starry, cold night gave way to a perfect dawn, eager runfurther.competitors struggled through the twists and turns of the mid-Wales roads to make the 10.00 registration cutoff for Pumlumon. Others were having a more relaxed start having arrived the night before and sipped coffee, chatted to friends and admired the Red Kites of this beautiful location.

It wasn't as hot as Fellsman back in May but Pumlumon saw a welcome return to clear skies and warm temperatures after the totally rubbish summer we have endured.

 

 

With so many events on the calendar these days, numbers were slightly down on last year for the 11th race in the Vasque series but competition was no less as final placings in most categories were far from finalised.  Mark Hartell made an early break from the lead group when the others followed a "short cut" through the first set of woods and
used this 100metre advantage to good effect - opening up a lead of around 2 minutes by Checkpoint 1. Martin Beale, close behind, having initially confided concerns about the strong presence from Team Krypton pulled into a comfortable second place by checkpoint 2 as well.

 

 

The Pumlumon event has a great, friendly feel to it and on a flawless day like last Saturday, the true wildness and expansiveness of mid Wales was there for everyone to enjoy. Trotting along broad backed ridges, running past the source of the River Severn and tackling the brute that is Drosgl - the expansive views and abundant bird life are a joy and a reminder to us all of the freedom of the hills. What also helps is the excellent support teams that put bridges in place, offer water at strategic points and even a cup of tea at half way for those with a minute or two to spare.

Overall winning times were a little slower than 2007 , partly reflecting the warmth of the day but there were some very good performances including local man Dave Powell in 3rd place and Nicky Spinks - clear winner of the ladies category and 5th place overall.

 

 

 

Team Krypton took home some great framed pictures of the course as their reward for a winning team effort and both Karen and Stuart made it 11/12 with only 50 miles to run in order to complete their Grand Slam achievements.

Mid Wales may be a long way to travel for some but there is no doubt that Pumlumon is quality - good course, nice mix of terrain, friendly atmosphere and a hearty bowl of soup for everyone afterwards. Make a date for your diary in 2009 to enjoy this undiscovered gem.

 

By Mark hartell - winner 2008 2nd Martin Beale