The Snowdonia Marathon Eryri has once again donated to local community groups and schools in Eryri after one of the best ever events in the race's history last October. On Monday evening community groups, organisations and schools from the area gathered at the National Trust offices in Craflwyn, Beddgelert for a special presentation evening to recognise the valuable support that they provide to the event.
Now in its 29th year the marathon, which is regarded as one of the toughest and most picturesque in the UK, continues to ensure it delivers in supporting the local community and environment not only physically but also financially and after donating £11,500 in 2011. The race has now donated over £50,000 to local causes since 2008.
Race organiser Jayne Lloyd is at lengths to explain the remit of the event, and is clear where the race's priorities lie: "To be honest with you, I think this is one of the best things about Marathon Eryri. We have a lot to shout about, we bring thousands of runners to the area generating huge amounts of income; the runners love the race, they love the area and the incredible welcome they get; we have impressive sustainable credentials, we have picked up an event and made it something truly unique and successful.
But, as I said, the best bit for me is being able to put something back in to the local community. It is them who cheer on our runners, who stand in the freezing cold wind and rain smiling and clapping them on. It is they who tolerate the inconvenience of our traffic management during the race and who give us the support we need to make this event work."
Speaking about the huge contribution the event makes to local causes, Jayne continues: "Since 2008 we have given in excess of £50,000 to local causes. This money gets used in a variety of ways. We contributed towards the all weather pitch in Llanberis and helped towards the cost of Llanberis FC’s new shower block. Ysgol Dolbadarn built a climbing wall using our money, the National Trust have been able to fund volunteering conservation work throughout Snowdonia using funds donated by Marathon Eryri, the Snowdonia Society have been able to put money towards new green initiatives in the area and youth volunteering groups have been able to fund valuable experiences for their members.
How great to be able to do this. Our runners are often overwhelmed by the spirit of the race, in this way they can show their appreciation by giving us the opportunity to put something back."
Beneficiaries on the night included National Trust, Snowdonia Society (who will be doing a big litter pick on the day after this year’s race), Ysgol Beddgelert, Ysgol Feithrin Beddgelert, Young Firefighters, North Wales Army Cadets, Ysgol Waunfawr, Ysgol Dolbadarn, Llanrug FC, Llanberis FC
The 2011 race takes place on Saturday the 29th of October and those wishing to volunteer help for the race can contact Jayne Lloyd on 01286 677785.
Further information can be found at the Snowdonia Marathon / Marathon Eryri website (www.snowdoniamarathon.com), on Facebook and Twitter @marathoneryri
