Matt Bicknall winning

Wet conditions ensured that Mike Blake’s 1990 record of 8 minutes was not challenged at the Tryfan Downhill Dash today. The winner in 15.07 was Colwyn Bay’s Mathew Bicknall, his first race victory ahead of first V40 Eryri’s Craig Jones 15.11. Visitor to the area from Penzance Jonah Seaston took 1st junior in 25.43, and Elsie Salisbury 1st female in 30’18.

A short memorial service was held after the race in memory of volunteer fellrace photographer Pete Douglas who died 3 days after photographing the race last year. Pete along with Al Tye have been dedicated to photographing fellraces for a good number of years, and their contribution to the sport cannot be underestimated, and the loss of Pete has been conspicuous by the huge reduction of photos from races on this site.

Pete passed away soon after filming last years race.

Sadly Al Tye has also not been active since that time due to illness a short time afterwards, but it was great to have him join us to watch the race and attend the brief memorial we held, and hopefully we'll see him out with us at races again soon.

Some words were said about Pete and a minute silence was held in his memory.

Matt chased by Craig

                Craig Jones

It is almost 12 months since Pete passed away, and he has been missed, most publicly by the huge gap he left in the world of Welsh fellrunning photography. Along with Al being unwell we have lost a great a contribution to the sport.

At Pete’s own request no funeral was held, something which some people found strange, but his wishes were respected.

On Saturday 23rd August a memorial will take place for Pete immediately following the Tryfan Downhill Dash. The race time is to meet at 2pm, at which time those competing will climb to the summit, with the race starting when everyone gets there.

Pete thoroughly enjoyed the Tryfan Downhill, and in fact it was the last race he filmed and photographed before he passed away, and he used it to test a new lens he purchased that week.

This year, when everyone get’s/falls back down there will be a prizegiving and then at approx 3pm a simple celebration of Pete’s life and appreciation of the contribution he gave to people by way of a few words spoken.

Everyone welcome, regardless of whether you want to run this crazy race, or just watch the drama unfold and then pay your respects to Pete. If you feel you want to say something on the day feel to do so and let me know.

Craig.