A 20-STRONG contingent from Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletic Club (BRAC) took on the daunting challenge of competing against 63 teams over 200 miles across Wales at the weekend.

Runners had spectacular views as they tackled the course which started at Caernarfon Castle and ended at Cardiff Castle.

Organisers Les Croupiers treated those taking part in the two-day event a route, which passes close to some 45 castles and forts including Criccieth, Harlich, Builth, Brecon and Caerphilly.

The 20 stage distances vary from eight to 13 miles and most have hills, with six having very severe climbs and are classed as mountain stages.

All stages tested both the physical and mental strength of every runner, especially as the weather was extremely hot and humid.

But such is the spirit and friendly nature of this splendid event and the competitors, that each team generously supplied water and encouragement to athletes from other clubs.

B&RAC’s team competed in the open-class race, and consisted of 16 men and four ladies.

The Saturday highlights on the first day of racing for BRAC were Ian Keyte coming seventh from Harlich to Barmouth and Kevin Fisher, who was 11th on a mountain stage from Dolgllau to Dinas Mawddwy.

On Sunday, Mark Appleton was ninth (Crossgates to Builth Wells), followed by Tamara Freeman (20th, Beacon Reservoir to Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr), Andrew Freeman (sixth, Abercynon to Caerphilly) and Rich Malin (eighth, Caerphilly to Cardiff).

All other runners from the club turned in good performances in the tough conditions, especially Rob Humphries, Simon Bowen, Rob Mole, Paul Atkins and Steve Beddoe on the mountain stages, to ensure BRAC finished a respectable 22nd in their class and 25th overall.

Charlotte Ball, Sam Lake, Thomasina Ball, Steve Brooks, Gavin Moorhead, Clive Rose, Sarah Richardson, Damian Lewis and Len Quartly were the final members as the club set a time of 25 hours and 37 minutes.

Anyone interested in more information about the club can go to: www.bromsgroveandredditchac.org.uk