Always Aim High Events Issues Statement on Safety-Led Cancellation of Snowdonia Trail Marathon Eryri & Yr Wyddfa 24 events
Following a final planned safety meeting at 18.00 on Friday 10th July, Always Aim High Events made the decision to cancel the Snowdonia Trail Marathon Eryri and Yr Wyddfa 24 events after a comprehensive review of conditions and the latest expert advice.
The meeting considered reports from the on-mountain safety team, advice from our partner agencies and the event Medical Director and the latest high-resolution weather forecasts. This included air temperature, wind speed, UV levels and humidity. The weather forecast on Friday was consistent with the forecast on race day; however, on-course monitoring identified actual temperatures that were higher than predicted, with readings of up to 34°C.
The event's safety assessment is based on the risks associated with a mass participation event, rather than the capabilities of individuals. The decision was made with the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved as the overriding priority, including participants, volunteers, staff and emergency services.
The event Medical Director highlighted the significant risk of exertional heat illness under the anticipated conditions. Exertional heat illness develops when the body is unable to dissipate heat generated during prolonged physical activity, with the risk increasing as exposure time and exercise intensity increase. In severe cases, immediate cooling is essential. Given the remote nature of the course, the time required to access and evacuate participants, and the additional pressure that would be placed on emergency services, the ability to respond effectively to multiple heat-related casualties would be significantly challenged.
Having carefully assessed the combined risks, Always Aim High Events concluded that the event could not be delivered safely. This was a safety-led decision made in the best interests of all those involved.
The decision was made at 19.00. Participants were informed of the cancellation at 19.30.