As competitors prepare to take on one of the world’s most unusual endurance challenges, excitement is building in Llanwrtyd Wells for the return of the iconic Man versus Horse Race.
The legendary event, which sees runners compete directly against horse riders across some of the toughest terrain in Wales, has become a fixture in the sporting calendar and remains one of the most anticipated community events in Mid Wales.
For experienced rider Kayleigh Tonkins, the race is unlike anything else.
“Man versus Horse is a truly incredible event,” she said. “With hundreds of runners competing against around 60 horses, it really is a battle of endurance for both horse and human.”
The challenging route takes competitors across bogs, forestry tracks, steep mountain climbs and rugged countryside, testing both physical fitness and mental resilience.
What began as a debate in a Llanwrtyd Wells pub more than four decades ago has grown into a world-famous event. The race was first staged in 1980 after a discussion about whether a person could beat a horse over a long-distance course. Local residents turned the idea into reality and, more than 40 years later, the community remains at the heart of organising the event.
The race became even more famous when a runner finally defeated the horses after 25 years of competition, claiming a £25,000 jackpot that had accumulated over the years for the first person to achieve the feat.
For riders, one of the most memorable moments comes before the race has even properly begun.
“The start is an extremely thrilling experience,” said Kayleigh. “Sixty horses trotting through Llanwrtyd Wells behind the start car, with crowds cheering, bells jangling and people lining the streets, really gets the adrenaline going. The horses become incredibly excited in such a vibrant atmosphere.”
She added: “As soon as the horses leave the start car behind and head up the first steep hill, that’s when the race truly begins. Feeling your horse power up the climb and eventually catch some of the runners is an amazing experience.”
While spectators enjoy the spectacle, much of the challenge takes place behind the scenes. One of the most crucial stages of the race is the veterinary checkpoint approximately 10 miles into the course.
Many people are surprised to learn that the race clock does not stop while horses undergo their veterinary inspection. Riders must quickly untack, cool down and present their horse for examination before tacking up again and returning to the course.
“The vet gate can completely change the outcome of the race,” explained Kayleigh. “The horse must be checked thoroughly to ensure it is fit and healthy enough to continue, so getting through efficiently is absolutely crucial.”
The atmosphere throughout the day is one of the event’s biggest attractions.
“There is nothing like the atmosphere at Man versus Horse,” said Kayleigh. “Everyone is incredibly supportive of every competitor taking part. The whole town is buzzing and there is a genuine sense of community from start to finish.”
For those planning to attend, Kayleigh recommends capturing the race from several key locations. The start through the town centre offers spectacular images and video, while sections such as the notorious Ravine, the veterinary checkpoint and the final climb before the finish provide dramatic moments that showcase the determination of both runners and riders.
The finish line itself often produces unforgettable scenes, with horses racing for the line and exhausted runners digging deep for one final effort.
Kayleigh knows first-hand that anything can happen during the race.
Reflecting on last year’s event, she recalled riding an exceptionally fit Standardbred racehorse that had been competing only days before.
“He had never raced under saddle before and only really wanted to be at the front,” she said. “As I was trying to walk him calmly into the vet gate, another rider overtook us and he immediately decided he needed to be ahead. We ended up charging down a steep hill into the checkpoint at full gallop. I still wonder whether he might have won if that hadn’t happened, but I guess we’ll never know.”
Behind every horse entered lies months of preparation, training and dedication. Riders spend countless hours building their horses’ endurance, while managing the constant risk of injury and ensuring they are physically ready for the challenge ahead.
“This is certainly the most demanding endurance event I’ve ever experienced,” said Kayleigh. “The amount of preparation involved is phenomenal. As riders, we put in months of training, but I am equally in awe of the runners. They are a true inspiration and, frankly, I think they must all be a little bit mad!”
As race day approaches, Llanwrtyd Wells is once again preparing to welcome competitors, supporters and visitors for an event that celebrates endurance, determination and community spirit. Whether you’re cheering on a runner, supporting a rider or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the Man versus Horse Race promises another unforgettable day in the heart of Wales.
As proud headline sponsors, Cambrian Training Company and Trailhead Fine Foods look forward to joining the celebrations and supporting one of Wales’ most iconic sporting events.
