As Llanwrtyd Wells prepares to welcome competitors and visitors from across the UK and beyond, excitement is building for one of Wales’ most iconic sporting events – the Man versus Horse Race.
Now in its 45th year, the world-famous challenge sees runners and horse riders compete over the same demanding 22-mile course through the stunning Mid Wales countryside. With steep climbs, river crossings, forestry tracks and open moorland, it is a true test of endurance, determination and resilience.
As headline sponsors, Cambrian Training Company and Trailhead Fine Foods are proud to support an event that not only showcases sporting excellence but also celebrates the strong community spirit that makes Llanwrtyd Wells so special.
For Cambrian Training Company Training Officer and endurance riding enthusiast Cheralyn Tonkins, the event is unlike any other.
“Watching the runners tackle the course is inspiring — it takes real grit, determination and resilience just to get around, let alone compete against horses,” she said. “What makes it truly unique is that horses, riders and runners all share the same routes and trails throughout the race, unlike any other event I know.”
Having attended the race for several years, Cheralyn says one of the highlights is the atmosphere that fills the town before the starting horn sounds.
“I absolutely love the start line. Watching the runners head off first, followed by the horses, is incredibly inspiring and the buzz and atmosphere are fantastic,” she explained. “Whether you know someone taking part or not, there’s a real sense of excitement as competitors set off into the hills.”
Many spectators may not realise the level of preparation and welfare measures involved for the horses competing in the event. Horse welfare remains the highest priority throughout the race, with veterinary checks taking place before, during and after the competition.
“Horses have to meet strict heart-rate requirements before they can continue,” explained Cheralyn. “Even if a horse arrives first at the midway vetting point, it may have to wait until its heart rate drops to a safe level before being allowed to continue. Horse welfare always comes first.”
Many spectators are surprised to learn that the competitor crossing the finish line first does not necessarily win the race. Because runners set off 15 minutes before the horses, official timings are adjusted at the end of the event to determine the overall winner. Another little-known rule is that horses competing in shoes must finish the race with all four shoes still attached or risk disqualification. Throughout the day, vets and farriers remain on site to ensure the welfare and safety of every horse taking part.
The preparation required is equally impressive. Riders spend months conditioning their horses to cope with the varied terrain, which includes rocky tracks, steep climbs, river crossings and challenging descents.
“The amount of training and commitment that goes into preparing a horse for this race is genuinely amazing,” said Cheralyn. “It takes huge amounts of time, dedication and excellent horsemanship to build the level of endurance fitness required.”
However, the event is about much more than competition. For many participants and spectators, it is the sense of community that keeps them coming back year after year.
“Llanwrtyd Wells comes alive on race day,” said Cheralyn. “The whole town is full of spectators cheering on runners and riders. The finish field has a real festival atmosphere, with local businesses, food vendors and supporters all coming together to celebrate the event.”
She added: “It’s also a wonderful family occasion. I attend with my mum and young son, and I love cheering on all the runners and riders. My sister has competed several times in recent years, so it’s always special to be there supporting her and everyone else taking part.”
For those planning to attend, Cheralyn recommends arriving early to experience the excitement of the start and finding a viewing point along the Abergwesyn Road to watch competitors leave the town and head into the countryside.
As race day approaches, anticipation is continuing to build for another memorable chapter in the history of this extraordinary event. Whether you’re supporting a runner, cheering on a horse rider or simply enjoying the unique atmosphere, the Man versus Horse Race promises an unforgettable day in the heart of Wales.
Cambrian Training Company and Trailhead Fine Foods look forward to welcoming competitors, supporters and visitors to Llanwrtyd Wells and celebrating one of the most remarkable sporting events in the world.
