Bangor University staff member wins inaugural Eryri50 Ultra Tour of Snowdonia

John Parkinson, acting Head of Bangor University’s School of Psychology is also a mean fell-runner. John Parkinson has just won the men’s category of the inaugural Eryri50 ultra Tour of Snowdonia (Sat 13 September).

This foot race across challenging and rugged terrain was in fact, 58.5 miles (95km) with just under 9000 feet of climb. Starting in Betws-y-coed the tour took in Dolwyddelan, Blaenau Festiniog, Croesor, Beddgelert, Rhyd Ddu, Llanberis, Nant Ffrancon valley, Capel Curig and back to Betws.  John Parkinson runs with the Eryri Harriers team and with Pedol Peris on the same day and many of Eryri’s fell runners competing in that, only Gwyn Owen and John Parkinson flew the flag for the Eryri Harriers in the ultra.

After a measured start, a group of 7 runners moved out into the lead with the sun climbing over the Dolwyddelan valley. By Croesor, Mark Liptrot from St Helen’s Sutton AC had developed a 3 minute lead, followed by Gwyn Owen and then John Parkinson. Gwyn moved into the lead in the climb from Rhyd Ddu to bwlch Maesgwm with John moving into second place. The final descent from Plas y Brenin to Betws saw John Parkinson take the lead which he held to finish in 10 hrs 33 mins. Gwyn Owen finishing close behind in 10 hrs 37 mins. First lady home was Sarah Thomson (U/A) in 13 hrs 34 mins. The final runner home finished in 20 hrs 44 mins (finishing at 3:15am) with 7 DNFs.

Thanks to Henry Williams and his organising team for an excellent and well managed event. Full results and photos will appear on the website: www.snowdonia50.com

Publication date: 18 September 2014