Quest Wales Draws International Adventure Racers To Betws-Y-Coed

On Saturday the 12th May Quest Adventure Race Series returned to Betws-y-Coed and brought nearly 400 adventure racers from all over the UK and Ireland, and from as far away as Hong Kong and the US.

The racers descended upon Betws-y-Coed on Saturday morning and took to the trails of Snowdonia National Park to run, cycle and kayak their way through one of 3 demanding and scenic routes.

The majority of participants took part in the Sport route of 42km which saw them start with a run through the trails around Betws-y-Coed; they then biked for 13km through Gwydir Forest and arrived at the kayak stage on Llyn Geirionydd. Another trail run which took in beautiful views around Llyn Crafnant and onto the final stage of cycling which included challenging hills and the final straight run back into the village of Betws-y-Coed and the finish line at Cae Llan. First across the line was Colin Smith (2hrs 22mins 05secs) and Jennie Guard (2hrs 49mins 33secs).

The Expert route was an extended version of the Sport route for the more adventurous. The winners of this 53km route were Killian Heery (2hrs 52mins 20secs) and Moire O’Sullivan (3hrs 25mins 05secs).

John Dillon won the male category in the Challenge route (1hrs 39mins 48secs) and Ciara Hassett took first in the female category (1hrs 48mins 18secs).

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After the race Cae Llan was the centre of activity where competitors were treated to a well-earned massage, some hearty food and custom designed medals and t-shirts.

Event organizer Oliver Kirwan said, “We have been working with Conwy Council, Betws-y-Coed Tourism Association and other local stakeholders to bring Quest back to the area and we have had an absolutely brilliant day here – as have our participants. Everyone has been commenting on how awesome the course was. Events like this are brilliant for regional towns, not only do they bring newcomers to the area but they showcase the best that Snowdonia National Park has to offer. The race would not have been possible without the help of the people and businesses of Betws-y-Coed, the marshals and local support. We very much look forward to returning next year with more adventure racers to this beautiful area.”

Barbara Drake, Chair of Betws-y-Coed Tourism Association, “We are very pleased to welcome Quest back to Betws-y-Coed. We know that those travelling to and participating in the race had a wonderful day.  Quest offers those who enjoy the outdoors and challenging themselves a great opportunity. It’s great to bring new visitors to the area and we look forward to welcoming Quest back in 2019. I would encourage anyone who hasn’t tried adventure racing to think about entering this great event next year and discovering our wonderful National Park in a whole new fashion.”