What has grown to be one Pembrokeshire’s biggest and most-loved sporting events ‘The Long Course Weekend 2018’ took place over last weekend and was yet again a huge success!

In its ninth year, the event continues to grow and has become a staple event in the sporting calendar for athletes and spectators not just from Wales, but worldwide.

With over 8,500 athletes competing from 34 countries and 533 different clubs, the streets, bars, restaurants and hotels of Tenby became filled with a friendly, buzzing community of Long Course supporters travelling to Pembrokeshire to support loved ones and be part of the Long Course spirit.

The weekend kicked-off last glorious Friday evening at Tenby’s North Beach with the first event of the weekend - The Wales Swim. Over 2,200 athletes took to Pembrokeshire’s seas to complete a distance of either 2.4 miles or 1.2 miles in one mass wave.

The conditions couldn’t have been better with the sun setting as the athletes completed their first challenge!

The children’s mini event ‘Taff Kids’ was also a huge success, with the parents cheering the kids on before it was there turn.

Day two of the event is bike day. Over 3,500 athletes cycled and endured a distance of either 112 miles, 66 or 44 that included 76 hills through Pembrokeshire’s scenic yet gruelling course.

Each year, one athlete takes the crown for being ‘King of the hill’, a challenge to see who can make it up Stm Brides (the most feared hill of the course) in the best time.

This year’s winner was Luke Dabbs with an impressive time of just 24 seconds!

The streets were bursting from corner to corner with spectators cheering these athletes on in the immense heat.

The final day of the event is run day, the last push for the athletes who were set to complete the full Long Course Challenge.

Over 4,000 athletes took place in one of four run events, including The Wales Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k and 5k, arguably the most loved day of the event!

All athletes experience the red-carpet finish, with confetti cannons, fire balls, samba band, a DJ and the cheering crowd congratulating them on the finish of their Long Course journey.

This year, the King of Long Course was UK athlete Harry Wiltshire. The first time winner of the event managed to steal the title from two-year consecutive winner Swedish Marcus Hultgren.

Harry’s finishing time was an impressive nine hours, one minute and 43 seconds - which is a new Long Course Weekend record.

The ladies Long Course crown was won by another UK athlete - Victoria Nealon making it an all British final this year.

Victoria’s smile crossing the finishing line is one of the lasting memories people will have from this year’s Long Course with her incredible time of 10 hours, 31 minutes and 59 seconds.

Both winning athletes were overcome when it came to the medal presentation which is in itself an amazing event to witness.

The medal ceremony is always a special moment for all Long Course athletes, as they line the red carpet to cheer on their winners down to the podium, it creates a real buzz and lasting memories of the event.

Race director, Matthew Evans is as ever hugely appreciative of his family, his team of staff, the community and the countless volunteers who give their time to make this weekend such a success.

“Long Course Weekend has come a long way since 2010, where 35 athletes lined up on the start line and 17 were awarded the coveted fourth medal.

“This year, 1,000 athletes competed for the fourth medal with 8,500 athletes from 34 countries travelling to Pembrokeshire.

“This magic is down to a mix of local support, our volunteers, our team, our athletes and the very nature of Pembrokeshire’s unique landscape. It all comes together as a very special product. Thank you to all the businesses and communities who give a huge Pembrokeshire welcome to the athletes.”

Long Course legends Nicky Rees and Steve Rogers who have completed all nine Long Course Weekend events so far stated: “We would like to say a massive thanks to everyone involved in organising and supporting the Long Course Weekend. The marshals were brilliant, especially on the bike and run courses out in the heat all day. The atmosphere of the event is something special, and the podium ceremony is so unique. Needless to say, we will be coming back for our 10th year!”

Make sure you come back to support or participate - it doesn’t matter which, just get involved and help “Inspire the Nation, or be part of the long course spirit!”

Early bird entries are now open.

Next year’s event is looking to be even bigger and better as Long Course X is set to take place on July 5-7, 2019.

The entries have already been rolling in as special surprises are rumoured to be added to next year’s event in celebration of the Long Course Weekend’s 10th anniversary!

“Please start getting your entries in now, we had 507 athletes on the waiting list this year so don’t be disappointed if you don’t act now,” added Matthew.

See X.lcwwales.com for information.