2025 Race Report

Date: Sunday 9 November 2025
Location: Newborough Forest, Anglesey
Organiser: Always Aim High Events
Timing: TDL Event Services

Race Overview

The Anglesey Trail Half Marathon & 10K 2025 returned to Newborough Forest for another unforgettable edition; one that truly tested runners’ resilience against the elements. What began as a light drizzle soon turned to steady, heavy rain as the morning wore on, soaking the pine-lined trails and softening the sandy sections that line Llanddwyn Beach.

While the conditions made the going tough; slick roots underfoot and beach stretches that felt heavier in the wind and drizzle, they also added a layer of wild beauty to the event. Mist drifted over the dunes, rain rippled through the trees, and distant glimpses of Eryri (Snowdonia) peaks framed a race that was as challenging as it was scenic.

Runners in both the Half Marathon and 10K events embraced the drizzle and atmosphere with determination and good humour. Despite the weather, Newborough’s trails once again proved why this event is one of the highlights of the North Wales running calendar.

Half Marathon Results

🥇 Men’s Podium

1. Steffan Sayer (Menai Track & Field) — 1:23:36
2. Deio Roberts — 1:25:35
3. Jago Onians (Run Happy) — 1:26:23

Local athlete Steffan Sayer delivered a masterclass in trail running, leading from the front through worsening conditions to claim the overall win in 1:23:36. His experience on North Wales terrain showed through as he navigated the forest tracks and heavy beach sand with precision.

Deio Roberts ran strongly in pursuit, maintaining a steady effort in the rain to secure second place, while Jago Onians of Run Happy completed the podium after a well-judged, consistent race. All three demonstrated true trail composure; steady pacing, adaptability, and strength in challenging terrain.

🥇 Women’s Podium

1. Dom Searle (Cheshire Dragons) — 1:36:55
2. Eleanor Ashcroft (Denbigh Harriers Running Club) — 1:40:42
3. Laura Jarman (Chorlton Runners) — 1:41:40

In the women’s field, Dom Searle of Cheshire Dragons put on an outstanding display of control and grit. Her early pace (44:30 through 10K) set her apart, and she held that strength through the wet and sandy closing miles to finish in 1:36:55.

Eleanor Ashcroft of Denbigh Harriers took second with a strong, balanced run, while Laura Jarman from Chorlton Runners claimed third — all three proving equal parts endurance and resilience as the rain intensified.

10K Results

🥇 Men’s Podium

1. Frazer Slade — 43:52
2. Grant Hudson — 44:56
3. Kane Jones — 45:05

The 10K race set off under already slick conditions, and the shorter distance did little to ease the challenge. Frazer Slade handled the trail superbly to take the men’s victory in 43:52, carving through the forest and holding strong on the beach. Grant Hudson followed in 44:56, just ahead of Kane Jones, who rounded out the men’s top three with 45:05 after a determined push through the final kilometre.

🥇 Women’s Podium

1. Catrin Donnelly — 46:03
2. Olivia Bramwell — 46:15
3. Pip Jones — 49:20

In the women’s 10K, Catrin Donnelly shone with a confident and composed run, crossing the line in 46:03 to take the win. Olivia Bramwell wasn’t far behind, finishing just 12 seconds later after an excellent battle through the forest trails. The pair’s close contest was one of the day’s highlights, with both runners thriving despite the damp conditions.

Atmosphere & Reflections

By the time the final finishers came through, Newborough Forest had become a sea of puddles, the normally loose sand was feeling heavy underfoot, yet the sense of achievement was unmistakable. Marshals and volunteers stood smiling in the rain, cheering on wet but elated runners.

Despite the rain, there was plenty of joy in the shared challenge, runners swapping stories of sand and rain-blurred vistas as they crossed the line. The 2025 Anglesey Trail Half Marathon & 10K was not about chasing fast times, but embracing the true spirit of trail running: grit, camaraderie, and appreciation for the wild beauty of Anglesey’s coastline.

For many, this will be remembered as one of the toughest and most rewarding editions yet a race that proved once again that even in the wettest Welsh weather, the trail community shines brightest.

Claire Stones, Head of Operations at Always Aim High Events, said: “

This year’s Anglesey Trail Half Marathon & 10K really captured the heart of what trail running is all about; resilience, camaraderie, and a love for the outdoors, whatever the weather. The rain may have been relentless, but it didn’t dampen the incredible spirit of our runners or the energy out on the course. Seeing so many smiling faces crossing the line despite the conditions was truly inspiring.”

“We’re thrilled that the event sold out once again, with runners travelling from across the UK to experience the beauty of Anglesey and the unique challenge of Newborough Forest. Events like this make a real difference to the local area, especially during the quieter shoulder season, and we’re proud to help showcase what this wonderful region has to offer.”

“Our sincere thanks go to Natural Resources Wales for once again granting us permission to use the stunning Newborough Forest; it’s such a privilege to stage an event in a setting of this natural beauty. Finally, we’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our fantastic marshals and volunteers. They braved the same rain and wind as our runners, cheering everyone on with unwavering enthusiasm. Without their dedication, this event simply wouldn’t be possible”.

Selected 2025 Altra Anglesey Trail Half Marathon, 10k & Canicross Results

10k Male
🥇 Frazer Slade - 43:52
🥈 Grant Hudson - 44:56
🥉 Kane Jones - 45:05

10k Female
🥇 Catrin Donnelly - 46:03
🥈 Olivia Bramwell - 46:15
🥉 Kane Jones - 45:05

Half Marathon Male
🥇 Steffan Sayer - 1:23:36
🥈 Deio Roberts - 1:25:35
🥉 Jago Onians - 1:26:24

Half Marathon Female
🥇 Dom Searle - 1:37:00
🥈 Eleanor Ashcroft - 1:40:44
🥉 Laura Jarman - 1:41:58