2025 Race Report

40K

The inaugural edition of the Ogwen 40K Skyline started at 7:30 AM under dry conditions, with cool morning air and patches of low cloud. As the day progressed, sunny spells broke through, offering runners clear views of the stunning ridgelines that define this certified International Skyrunning Federation course. The route traversed some of the most impressive and technically demanding terrain in Eryri (Snowdonia). A total of 81 runners lined up at the start.

Michael Lelliott delivered an exceptional performance, seizing the lead early and maintaining it through every split. With a strong opening 4.2K in 18:45, he powered through the mountainous terrain to finish first overall, claiming the men’s senior title with authority.

Just 10 seconds behind, in a time of 4:56:19, Evan Davies nearly closed the gap in the final stages. Matching Lelliott stride for stride until the 35.5K mark, Davies exhibited a masterclass in pacing—especially impressive given the difficulty of the later climbs.

Taking third place was Mark Darbyshire in 5:14:43. Darbyshire showed veteran prowess, moving steadily up the field after a conservative start. His rise in the rankings was capped by a strong final push, rounding out the podium nearly 18 minutes behind second place.

In the women’s race, Bethan Logan of Mynydd Du Runners dominated from start to finish, taking the win in 5:27:19. She was the first female through every checkpoint, pacing herself intelligently on the steep ascents and finishing 4th overall, securing the women's senior title in emphatic style.

Taking second place was Stephanie James of Maidenhead AC. While she trailed Logan by over an hour, her strong second half saw her overtake several runners, securing her position in 6:39:56.

Rounding out the podium was Michelle Bowes of Deeside AAC. She maintained a steady effort throughout. Despite a slower start, her climb into third came with a solid run from the 22K mark onward, demonstrating strong endurance and resilience on technical terrain.

25K

The Ogwen | Yr Helgi Du 25K race set off at 8:30 AM under continued dry and cool conditions—ideal for mountain running. As the morning wore on, sunny skies emerged, creating perfect visibility across the Glyderau. Though shorter than the 40K, the 25K route was no less demanding. It featured steep climbs, rocky ridgelines, and fast, technical descents across some of Eryri’s most iconic terrain. A total of 138 runners took part.

In the mens race Alex Homei, last year’s winner, opened fast (18:17 at 4.2K) and never looked back. He controlled the race from the front, moving smoothly across the ridgelines and descents. His decisive win, clocking in at 2:43:49, came with an impressive 8-minute lead over second place—cementing his dominance on this course.

Jon Mulhall of Liverpool Vikings took second place, executing a smart and consistent race. He stayed composed on the early climbs and used his experience to maintain a steady rhythm in the final kilometres. Having run the race last year, he improved significantly, shaving a solid amount of time off his previous result and finishing in 2:52:02.

Toby Spencer claimed third with a steady climb through the field. Despite pressure from runners close behind, he held his ground, breaking the 3-hour mark on a course where every climb demanded full focus and strength.

In the female race Katrina Entwistle of Bristol and West AC delivered a stunning performance; finishing not only first in the women’s field but placing among the top three overall at several checkpoints. Her winning time of 2:56:55 was over 10 minutes ahead of the next female competitor, reflecting both her strength and technical prowess on the ridgelines.

Emily Browne of CDF Runners took second, running a well-judged race. She climbed steadily through the ranks and made her move after the 10K mark. Her strong pacing and confident finish brought her home in 3:07:57.

Rachel Tate secured third place in 3:10:22. Her consistent pace and strength through the middle section of the course allowed her to overtake several younger runners. She held her position through the final descent, finishing with both grit and grace.

10K

Also taking place was the Ogwen 10K Trail Race, which saw 75 runners line up to take on this beautiful and fast 10K course. The 2025 edition offered a scenic, mostly flat route along the Ogwen Valley trail, making it the most accessible and beginner-friendly event of the day. Despite its gentler profile, the race still delivered strong competition and spirited performances.

In the mens race It was local runner Jamie Hamilton Williams who took the win after entering at the last minute, finishing in 53:19. As the first male finisher and third overall, he ran a well-paced race with a 4.2K split of 25:36. Williams pulled away in the latter half, holding off both younger and older challengers to secure the men's title—telling organisers afterward, “I ran right past my Taid’s house, which is actually on the route!”

In second place was Ezra Van Egeraat, the youngest runner in the top rankings at just 17 years old. He showed remarkable maturity and strength, finishing just behind Williams in 53:58—a performance that promises much for his trail running future.

George Fleming rounded out the men’s podium in 54:05, just seven seconds behind Van Egeraat. His close battle for second added excitement to the fast, flat finish along the valley path.

The women’s race was particularly strong, with Alice Grange taking both the women’s win and the overall win in a time of 50:30. With a confident 4.2K split of 25:24, she closed with a powerful kick to cross the line first.

Coming in second overall and second among the women was Olivia Bramwell, who finished in 52:03. Bramwell stayed close on Grange’s heels during the early stages but couldn't quite close the gap, finishing just 1:33 behind.

Taking third place was Kerry Jones of Cybi Striders, finishing in 58:03. Jones delivered a standout performance as the first veteran female across the line. Placing third overall in the women’s race and dominating her age category, she gave a masterclass in steady pacing and strength on the return leg.

Claire Stones, Head of Operations at Always Aim High Events, "Following on from our first event last year, it’s been fantastic to see the entries grow — especially with the addition of our new 40k distance, which we’re proud to have officially certified as a SkyRunning event.

We’ve received incredible feedback after the race. The route is absolutely stunning, and today’s perfect weather made it even more memorable. We can’t wait to return next year and continue building on what’s already become an impressive event. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us this year!"

She continued, "Our Marshals, Mountain Leaders, and staff have been phenomenal — working tirelessly to provide hydration, fuel, and unwavering support to the athletes. Their dedication is truly appreciated."

Selected 2025 Ogwen | Yr Helgi Du Results

10K open 👏
🥇 Jamie hamilton Williams 53:19
🥈 Ezra Van egeraat 53:58
🥉 George Fleming 54:05

10K female 👏
🥇 Alice Grange 50:30
🥈 Olivia Bramwell 52:03
🥉 Kerry Jones 58:03

25K open 👏
🥇 Alex Homei 2:43:49
🥈 Jon Mulhall 2:52:02
🥉 Toby Spencer 2:59:00

25K female 👏
🥇 Katrina Entwistle 2:56:55
🥈 Emily Browne 3:07:57
🥉 Rachel Tate 3:10:22

40K Male 👏
🥇 Michael Lelliott 4:56:09
🥈 Evan Davies 4:56:19
🥉 Mark Darbyshire 5:14:43

40K Female 👏
🥇 Bethan Logan 5:27:19
🥈 Stephanie James 6:39:36
🥉 Michelle Bowes 6:49:08