Like many an inspired/insane idea, the Man vs Horse marathon began as a drunken bet. In 1980, Gordon Green, then the landlord of the Neuadd Arms Hotel, heard two punters discussing the relative merits of men and horses running over mountainous terrain. Never one to miss an opportunity, Green decided to put it to the test. And so began the Man vs Horse marathon.
Now in its 34th year, the race attracts runners from around the world, all eager to see if they can beat a horse over 22 miles of rugged Welsh terrain. It took 25 years before a man finally managed to beat a horse.
Huw Lobb won in 2hrs and 5mins, beating the fastest equine by two minutes. Florian Holtinger repeated the feat three years later, beating the leading horse by a full 11 minutes, but equines have triumphed ever since.
The weather plays a key role in the likelihood of man besting beast. Horses overheat more quickly, which is why race officials insist on a 15-minute ‘vet break’ to make sure horses’ body temperatures aren’t too high. It’s no coincidence that the two human victories were recorded on hot days.
At 22 miles in length, the course is a little short of an actual marathon. But what it lacks in length it makes up for in difficulty: steep hills, rough terrain and plenty of ups and down. If that sounds like too big a challenge, there’s always the option of racing as part of a three-man relay team, each runner covering just over seven miles.
Included in your entrance fee is a ticket to a pre-race pasta party in the Neuadd Arms Hotel. Horses, on the other hand, have to make do with hay.
For more information, visit www.green-events.co.uk
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