The Ron Skilton Half Marathon took place on Sunday, October 20, despite unfavourable weather conditions before and during the event.

Overall 95 runners participated in the off-road event, with 36 opting for the 12k option and 59 taking on the half marathon distance.

At the start runners gathered in trepidation as the rain started, then as the signal sounded the rain ceased for most of the day.

First home in the 12k race was Mel Safie, a Builth & District Running Club member who finished in a time of 1 hour 12 minutes and 20 seconds, taking the crown of first overall and first female.

First male in the 12k race was Barry Griffiths, aged over 60 years old, from Brecon Athletics Club. He completed the course in a time of 1 hour 18 minutes and 31 seconds. 

In the half marathon the winner of the male category was Robin Woods of the Builth club in a time of 1 hour 41 minutes.

Emma Jones from Croft Ambrey Running Club was the first female over the line in the half marathon, completing the course in 2 hours 26 minutes 10 seconds.

All the proceeds made from the event will go towards the charity, Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The annual event, organised by Green Events, is in memory of the organisation’s former secretary and treasurer, Ron Skilton who sadly passed away to motor neurone disease in December 2005. Following his death, it was decided a half marathon would be added to the Green Events calendar in Ron’s memory, as Ron was a keen runner and cyclist.

Green Events hosts a variety of wacky events across the year.

The organisers of the event said: “We would like to thank all the marshals and local landowners as well as the participants - without these it would be impossible to stage this event.

“We were super impressed with the runners considering the conditions under foot. At one point a small stream had spread to become an interesting challenge. However, that did not appear to dampen the spirits of the competitors, though it may well have soaked a few!”