Litah takes on tough fell race challenge in memory of her best friend’s father
LITAH Atans-Mcintyre is planning on completing the ‘Ras y Gader’, Cader Idris Mountain Race in memory of her best friend’s father.
On May 20, Litah will attempt the race – regarded as one of Wales’ toughest – climbing almost 3,000ft to the summit of Pen y Gader itself. Starting in Dolgellau, the route takes runners along a constant changing terrain, having to switch from steep metalled roads to flat tracks behind Gwernan lake, pitched steps up the Pony Path, and picking their way among the boulder fields on the final ascent. If you think that’s not challenging enough, runners then must turn around and do the route in reverse back to Dolgellau!
Litah has decided to take on the challenge in memory of David Evans who was cared for by St
David’s Hospice at his home. Describing the care David received, Litah explains why she chose to raise funds for St David’s Hospice,
“My best friend’s father, David Evans sadly passed away last October after a long battle with cancer.
“He was looked after by the local palliative care team (hospice at home) in Dolgellau. They went out of their way to support him and make his last moments as comfortable as possible. They also did an incredible job supporting the whole family in those difficult times.
“He was a very kind and generous man who would always help those in need whether he knew them or not.
“I wanted to show my appreciation for the work that you do and raise money for a locally based charity that probably doesn’t get as much funding and exposure as nationwide cancer organisations.”
She then talks about the challenge itself: “I run long distances on regular basis with the longest to date being 31 miles, but I am a lone runner and tend to go very early in the morning all by myself.
“The challenge here is to take part in an organised event where many professionals participate as well as it being a summit race, which makes the elevation challenging.
“I’m very excited, however I’m worried about being intimidated and overwhelmed by the event.
“I tend to run by myself wherever my legs take me and at the pace I want at the time so having to compete with a group of elite athletes is very unnerving! I have never participated in an organised race before!
“I hope the money raised will help purchase the equipment needed to carry on providing the outstanding service you do.”
● Litah has set up a fundraising page online and is hoping to raise £350 for St David’s Hospice. Anyone wanting to make a donation can do so at St David’s Hospice: Hospice Heroes (enthuse.com)