My Thrilling Encounter with Man v Horse in Glorious Wales

There are weekends, and then there are weekends.
The kind that etch themselves into your memory, leaving you buzzing with renewed energy and a heart full of gratitude.

Just recently, I had one of those truly extraordinary experiences, spending an absolute cracking few days in the breathtaking landscapes of Wales for the legendary Man v Horse event. And let me tell you, it was made even more special by the truly cracking people I shared it with.

From the moment we crossed the border into Wales, a sense of adventure settled over us. The verdant hills, ancient forests, and crisp, clean air immediately worked their magic, washing away the week's stresses.

This wasn't just any trip; it was a pilgrimage to one of the most unique and challenging races in the UK.

The Thrill of the Race:
For those unfamiliar, the Man v Horse Marathon in Llanwrtyd Wells is exactly what it sounds like: a gruelling 22-mile race across varied, often unforgiving, terrain where human runners pit their endurance against horses (with riders, of course!).
You can either run the whole event on your own, split the distance in to a pair or even participate in team of three. 

It’s a spectacle of immense proportions, a true test of grit, strategy, and sheer will. Standing amidst the cheering crowds, watching the runners and riders thunder past, the atmosphere was utterly electric. You could feel the raw determination radiating from every participant, whether they were a seasoned athlete aiming for a record or a first-timer simply trying to finish. The shared sense of anticipation and the collective roar of encouragement as competitors navigated the challenging course was something truly special. It’s more than just a race; it’s a celebration of perseverance and the incredible capabilities of both human and animal.

The Heart of the Weekend: Cracking Company
But as exhilarating as the event itself was, it was the company that truly elevated the weekend from great to unforgettable. My incredible group of friends/clients transformed every moment into a highlight. From the lively debates over our morning coffee about race tactics and who we thought might actually win, to the effortless laughter that filled the air during our hearty meals, their presence was the soul of the trip. We navigated winding country lanes together, shared stories and silly jokes, and recounted the day’s highlights – the heroic sprints, the muddy tumbles, the sheer scale of the landscape.

There’s something profoundly re-energising about spending time with people who don't just share your enthusiasm, but amplify it. Their infectious energy made even the wait in a queue feel like an opportunity for a new anecdote. We found joy in the simple things, like discovering a hidden viewpoint or sharing a piece of lemon cake. It’s those moments of genuine connection, the easy banter, and the unconditional support for each other, that truly make a trip memorable.

Every interaction, every shared glance, was a reminder of the power of genuine friendship and how good company makes even the most magnificent scenery shine brighter.

Wales: A Stunning Backdrop
Beyond the thrills of the race, Wales itself proved to be a magnificent host. The rugged beauty of the landscape provided a stunning backdrop to our adventures. Every turn seemed to reveal another postcard-perfect vista, from rolling green valleys dotted with sheep to dramatic skies that promised either glorious sunshine or a quintessential Welsh drizzle (we got a bit of both, naturally!). Taking a deep breath of that clean Welsh air felt like a detox for the soul, and just being immersed in nature was a powerful reminder of the world’s enduring beauty. And doing so with friends who appreciate the same things just made it even better.

Reflection and Gratitude:
Leaving Wales, I carried not just the typical post-event glow, but a deep sense of inspiration and immense gratitude.
I sincerely thought my running days were over but this feels just the spark to get my trail legs back in the game again!
The Man v Horse event was a powerful testament to endurance and the spirit of competition, but it was the shared laughter, the camaraderie, and the genuine warmth of good company that truly defined this "cracking weekend."

It’s a powerful reminder that while the destinations and events are exciting, it’s often the people you share them with that create the most cherished and lasting memories.

​I’m already dreaming of the next adventure, and undoubtedly, it’ll be with some more of those cracking people.