Our planned weekend away near Conwy was always going to include a parkrun. On arrival in scenic North Wales we had checked out part of the nearest course to our accommodation and were looking forward to running around what looked to be a picturesque and flat location. Then, on Saturday morning just before 8am, word came through that Conwy had to cancel due to the many iced over puddles across paths. A quick online search ensued before we dashed off on a detour to Penrhyn Castle. It was a beautiful sunny, if cold, morning and the drive through the tunnels on the A55 added to the drama. Thankfully, we arrived in good time and were quite delighted to find such a beautifully located alternative.
There is plenty of free parking available at National Trust owned Penrhyn. Toilet facilities are available by the car park although only the disabled cubicle was open. It is then a walk up the hill towards the impressive castle, with views of mountains and sea in the distance. We learned that more toilets are available at the castle and they were open. The café was not as it was still too early in the season.
A lovely lady offered to take our photo by the pop up. She then showed me the room where bags could be left, just off the castle courtyard by the finish funnel. Participants were starting to congregate outside the courtyard entrance so I joined them. The last minute change of plan meant I had little idea about this course – route or path type – so I was eager to attend the first timers briefing.
This was held by a tree near the start point and was well attended. Visitors had come from near and far, perhaps augmented by the two local cancellations (Nant y Pandy on Anglesey had also cancelled). There were a few participants new to parkrun which is always pleasing – it was a lovely morning for starting what we hope will become a new weekly habit.
A young volunteer held up a useful course map while the route was explained – two big loops around the castle followed by two small loops that cut out some of the hills. The course is undulating but paths are tarmac or pressed gravel so firm underfoot. It was pleasing that there were no puddles – keeping feet dry is always a bonus.
The run director’s briefing was held by the start point. He had a good voice for this role and I was able to hear the safety reminders, milestones being celebrated and volunteer thanks clearly. It was then time of 3-2-1-Go! And off we all set.
The course starts with a downhill section, keeping the castle on the right. Paths were wide enough that there was minimal congestion as everyone settled into their chosen pace. Participants had been advised to stay left and overtake on the right. Not everyone seemed to remember this but it was never an issue. At the bottom of the descent marshals ensured everyone was aware of a patch of ice on one side of the path and could avoid.
Having run downhill it was inevitable that we would have to ascend. All credit to the participant who overtook me pushing a double buggy as I tried to keep my legs moving at a decent pace. Having completed this climb the approach back to the start point was into the sun with the castle looming impressively. It was then necessary to do it all again.
Partway up the ascent on this second loop faster runners were joining the main path from the right. Marshals ensured everyone was aware and could pass safely.
The smaller loops don’t go around the castle, instead taking a right turn just past the start point. Faster runners were approaching the finish funnel here so a little care was needed to ensure I didn’t get in their way. A gravel path then wound around and down to meet the main path again.
With paths now familiar the final part of the second small loop could be enjoyed fully. The course finishes with that slight downhill into the sun towards the castle, the finish funnel set out under the arch that leads into the courtyard. Tokens were handed out and we were directed into the room where bags had been left to be scanned. All was done with friendly efficiency.
222 participants passed through the finish funnel, 35 of whom were first timers to Penrhyn. The pack was led by James Coleman in a time of 17:54.
5 finishers earned the right to wear a new milestone t-shirt. Congratulations to: Nick Roberts (250); Sharon Teman (100); John Truman and Christian Griffith (50); Jon Stockley (25).
Biggest thanks go to the 18 volunteers who made the event possible. Do please consider stepping up into one of the many and varied roles available in the weeks ahead.
Results were published quickly although with quite a few unknowns, including husband who had, however, noted his finish token number. An email with his details was sent and this was soon rectified. All credit to whoever was sorting things out behind the scenes.
Penrhyn is a stunning location and we were happy to have been diverted here. If in the area again at some point in the future we would certainly consider doing this parkrun again.
