Pen Tir Drop Fell Race 2017 The sixth race of the 24th South Wales Winter Hill Series, saw 51 runners (10 Ladies, 51 men) head off up into cold, leaden skies above Cwmdu, onto Pen Tir Hill. On the top, an inch of snow brightened the windswept surroundings to the turnaround at the cairn. Returning, some were wise and used the reverse route. Others chose the permitted but ill-advised route through an intense briar patch and were lacerated for their efforts ! A slippery muddy descent brought forth much colourful language entertaining the marshal below. Then a short quick road blast to the warmth of Cwmdu Hall and the demolishing of 7 delicious cakes (over 100 portions !), baked by co-organiser Karen Elvers and the usual heart-shaped Welsh cakes. Many thanks to Kay and Martin Lucas for marshaling on the hill, Andy Creber for organising the car park and Rob Brown for manning the road gate. Both race records fell, with winners Samuel Gregory, SM, unattached, recording 31 mins. 38 secs. and Katie Beecher, SF, of Les Croupiers, taking nearly 3 mins off the record with 36 mins. 51 secs. 1st MV40 Marcus Pinker of MDC , 1st MV50 Jeff Wherlock of Machen Miggly Moos (of course !), 1st MV60 John Aggleton of MDC, 1st MV70 Les Williams of Eryri. Also 1st Male under 23, who was 2nd overall, John Hamilton of Forest of Dean. 1st FV40 Karen Pickles of Pudsey and Bramley, 1st FV50 Rona Davies of Mynydd Du. Also first Female under 23, Emily Ford of MDC. Thank you for all your support. Regards. Gareth & Karen.