Endurance athlete Sean Conway joins debut school event
A WORLD record-breaking athlete joined runners for an event in aid of a Flintshire school.
On Saturday, the very first Machlud Mountain Race took place in the Clwydian Range, supporting Ysgol Y Foel, Cilcain.
Despite torrential rain throughout the morning, the skies cleared just in time, treating runners, marshals, and supporters to a glorious sunset (‘Machlud’ in Welsh) and breathtaking views across the Vale of Clwyd.
Sixty runners (and some dogs) took on the challenging 21km half marathon route, with the fastest finisher, Oliver Wheatley, crossing the line in an incredible 1hr 53mins. Competitors travelled from across Wales and as far as Sheffield to take part, with highlights including Rick and his cani-cross champion Zig, who stormed home to cheers from the crowd.
The event also welcomed a special guest, endurance athlete Sean Conway, whose world record-breaking achievements have been honed on the Clwydian Range. Sean was seen thoroughly enjoying the course, the atmosphere, and the chance to run alongside fellow fell runners – a huge boost for the race’s first year.
Thanks to the support of staff, parents, pupils, Cilcain villagers, North East Wales Search & Rescue (NEWSAR), members of local running clubs and John Heppenstall, race organiser, the event ran smoothly and safely. Volunteers baked, cooked, donated refreshments, and kept the marshals and athletes fuelled until well after dark. The PTA’s legendary cakes, warming soup, and hot drinks added to the electric atmosphere at the finish.
The race was also a wonderful showcase for Ysgol Y Foel and its community spirit. The PTA estimate the event has raised £1,500, which will go directly towards providing new outdoor equipment for Ysgol Y Foel pupils.
Hannah Mitchell, PTA chair, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the success of our first Machlud Mountain Race. The support from our school, village and wider community has been overwhelming. We couldn’t have asked for a better showcase of what Ysgol Y Foel represents – family, resilience and togetherness.”
Headteacher Emma O’Neill added: “The atmosphere was electric from start to finish. Seeing so many people come together – from runners to volunteers, parents to pupils – made us so proud. The money raised will make a real difference to our children’s outdoor learning and play opportunities.”
• The Machlud Mountain Race will now become an annual event, returning in September 2026, for updates visit: https://machlud.org/
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