A classic race re-born

The launch of the Llandudno 10

I had a day out at the seaside today. It was my great pleasure to attend the launch of the 2011 Llandudno 10.I ran this race myself at some stage in the late 90s and I know it will evoke fond memories in all that ran it between 1983 when North Wales Road Runners started the event and 2005 when it was last staged.

Chris Yorke, Ian Turner, Mayoress Mrs. Anne Yates, Steve Brace, John Hatton

My other half is actually one of the past winners of the race. Before setting off I asked him for his most vivid memory of the event. This race was pivotal event in his career. It had hosted a British Home International and he made his international debut on the road in Llandudno. Not only that but he won the race and ran his fastest ever final mile. “I ran 4:24 for the last mile along the promenade because there was a storm blowing behind me!”

You see the race was always held in November and the weather could be a significant factor. Going forward it will be held at the beginning of the summer season. The date for 2011 will be Sunday 22^nd May. The organising committee aim to promote the Conwy area and in doing so enhance the future of business and tourism in the town. As well as the ten mile race around the town there will be the “Mostyn Mile” along the promenade.

The launch was attended by the Mayoress, the press and the Head of Athletics Development in Wales, Steve Brace, who is also a past winner of the race. He also has fond memories of the event. It normally hosted the Welsh National Ten Mile Championships and so he would be keen to run to gain that title. He recalls one particular year when he ran it in 48 minutes only one week after running the New York Marathon!

Presentations were made by the race director, John Hatton; Marketing Director, Chris Yorke and Community Liason Director, Ian Turner. The key objectives are to provide runners and spectators with a full weekend of fun and activity, elite runners the opportunity to run fast times with good competition, the people of the Conwy area a great start to the tourist season and the opportunity to be involved as volunteers and local charities with the opportunity to raise funds. There is a lot more to this event than just a race. There will be a race expo at the Venue Cymru Arena, a pasta party and the opportunity to buy local food and drink and visit the theatre.

Make sure you mark the date in your diary! I certainly will - and what's more - you will be able to enter online at runbritain. Watch this space!