October 23, 2026 - 242 views
Marathon Eryri has been cancelled because of unsafe conditions caused by Storm Austen, with organisers citing strong winds, fallen tree debris and flooding along the course.
The decision was announced on earlier this evening (Friday 23 October), following an assessment by the event’s course management team and further advice from safety experts.
Organisers said conditions had eased during the evening, but the forecast for Saturday had deteriorated considerably, leaving them with no choice but to cancel the race.
The marathon, which attracts runners to Eryri National Park and the surrounding area, has more than 40 years of history and is a major event in the running calendar.
In a statement, the organising team said the decision had been heartbreaking, but the safety of everyone involved had to come first, including the runners and the volunteer marshals, some of whom spend more than eight hours out on the course.
The organisers thanked participants and supporters for their patience, particularly during the previous 24 hours, as they explored whether the race could go ahead safely.
They said it was their intention to defer all runners’ places to next year, with further details to be sent directly to participants by email.
The cancellation comes as Storm Austen brings strong winds and heavy rain to North Wales, disrupting transport and creating hazardous conditions in exposed areas. Further unsettled weather is expected over the weekend as Storm Boelo approaches.
The organisers said the event had built a loyal and cherished running community over more than four decades, adding that they hoped that spirit would continue for many years to come.
