The Run Wales Conwy Half Marathon holds a special place in our running hearts. The 2013 version was the first half marathon we ever ran. A couple of years later, we ran our half marathon PB here when completing the 2015 version.

Unfortunately, since then we have struggled with injuries and fitness. Last year, for example, although we had entered, following injury we weren’t ready and ended up volunteering instead (which was great in its own way!)

This was the 10th anniversary of the event, and Sarah was determined to participate …

Unfortunately, I have been struggling with a foot problem and cannot run the distance at the moment. Instead, I decided to run a 10k circuit of my own. The idea was that I would do this and then go on and be at the finish when Sarah crossed the line later.

We were staying at Glan Conwy. I set off running and made my way towards Llandudno Junction. I then turned towards Conwy.

However, before reaching Conwy Castle I picked up a path that took me alongside the River Conwy

It was cool and lovely morning as the mist rose over the hills.

Further along, I entered Conwy RSPB nature reserve.

I followed this round the east bank of the Conwy estuary.

There were some interesting carvings en-route.

I left the nature reserve and headed back in the direction of the hotel.

Meanwhile. Sarah was making her way to the start of the half marathon.

Then her run began.

While Sarah was running around the Great Orme, having changed and such like, I was making my way back alongside the River Conwy towards the race finish.

It wasn’t too long a wait before Sarah was turning the final corner and sprinting to the finish. This had been a personal triumph for Sarah. All those best-laid training plans had bitten the dust following a recent illness and then our wedding. She had effectively gone from zero (or not a lot) to a half marathon in five weeks!

A little further behind, finishing her first half-marathon, was our friend Nathalie. Well done Nathalie!

Later, after a celebratory drink and something to eat, we left Conwy and headed back to the car.

We always enjoy visiting Conwy, and the half marathon gives us that opportunity. This is a fabulous and scenic half marathon and one we heartily recommend having a go at.