The ninth Pembrokeshire Half Marathon event, along with its sister 10k, was hailed a success by competitors and organisers alike following a busy day in Dale on Sunday.

For the first time ever, the event was full a month before it took place, and despite the usual number of competitors not running due to injury or illness, 214 made it to the finish line in the two races.

Organised by Pembrokeshire Triathlon Club, the event has grown each year, with runners coming from far and wide.

For the first time ever, the finish area benefited from a road closure, which provided a safe environment for runners and officials, and a great atmosphere was provided by the spectators who gathered to cheer home their friends and family. Luckily, the good weather held and the barbecue, operated outside the Griffin Inn, was a great success.

In the half marathon, performance of the day went to Ann Thomas, of TROTs, who broke the female course record set in the inaugural event in 2000 by the narrowest margin of just one second, with a time of 1:26:59. Michael Kallenberg, of Ingli Runners, was fastest overall in 1:19:15 and continued his excellent season. More of this young runner in the future no doubt.

Both received Adam Evans-Thomas perpetual trophies.

A special mention must go to Allen Watts, of Sarn Helen, who claimed the title of oldest finisher once again, at the tender age of 79!

In the 10k event, it was a clear win in 37:51 for 16-year-old Jake Watson, of Pembrokeshire Tri, who claimed the title won by his older brother Luke in 2007. Fastest lady was super-veteran Lyndy Eynon, of TROTs, in an impressive 45:57.

The event was sponsored by South Hook LNG, with spot prizes donated by TriExercise, of Milford Marina. Mike Howlin Motors in Johnston kindly provided a van for the weekend to transport the large amount of equipment that is needed to run an event on this scale. Trinity House and the National Trust once again allowed the event to take place on their land.

Pembrokeshire County Council kindly handed the public car park over to the race organisers, and as a result, £172 was collected by the Triathlon Club for Adam's Bucketful of Hope Appeal. This will be added to over £500 raised by the Triathlon Club through the race for the appeal, and additional sponsorship raised by individuals for this and other charities.

Overall, the event is expected to raise several thousands of pounds for worthwhile causes.

Next year's event takes place on Sunday, September 27, and will be the 10th anniversary of the half marathon. Entries will open in January, and close on August 31, or as soon as the race limit is reached. Demand is expected to continue to increase, so early entry is advised.

Details of this event, and others organised by the Triathlon Club, can be found at http://www.pembrokeshire-tri.org.uk">www.pembrokeshire-tri.org.uk, e-mail [email protected]">[email protected], tel. 07975 925365.