PLANNING for the internationally renowned World Bog Snorkelling Championships has already been underway in Llanwrtyd for some months, but now the famously ‘wacky’ event is right around the corner.
Taking place on the August bank holiday weekend (Sunday, August 28), entrants will be able party on to their heart’s desire after the event.
This madcap sport takes place on the outskirts of town and competitors are required to don a mask or goggles, snorkel and flippers before snorkelling two lengths of a specially dug out 55-metre trench in a peat bog in the shortest time possible.
‘Flipper power’ is the key as no conventional swimming strokes are allowed, and heads must be underwater and only quick glances are allowed for orienteering purposes. Wetsuits are sometimes worn, although this is optional.
Fancy dress is encouraged and novelty entrants need only complete one length.
Serious competitors hoping to take the World Championship must complete two lengths without resting.
The current world record stands at 1.30.66, held by Dan Morgan who last year smashed the previous record time of 1.35.18, held by Joanne Pitchforth.
Organiser Sheelagh Tompkins described the event as certainly wacky and downright dirty.
“It has a massive global following and attracts huge media attention,” Sheelagh said.
“It should be on the list of the 100 things to do once in your lifetime.”
The bog snorkelling series of events include the World Mountain Bike Bog Snorkelling Championship and the World Bog Snorkelling Triathlon Championship.
These will be an integral part of the Alternative Games being held in Llanwrtyd Wells following the 2012 London Olympic Games.
The Games will be held over a two week period from August 18 to September 2, and will feature other world famous wacky events including ‘Octopush’, wife-carrying, and chariot racing.
For information, email sheelagh.t@green-events.co.uk