A BOGGY patch in the Welsh mountains has become known around the world as the site of one of the world’s most unusual sporting events, helping make the little town of Llanwrtyd Wells known as home of unique festivals.
The World Bog Snorkelling Championships will be held again on bank holiday Sunday, August 29, with an international cast of competitors.
In the past years, plucky snorkellers have come from as far as Australia and New Zealand to tackle two lengths of a specially dug out 60-yard trench in a peat bog to claim the world title currently held by Joanne Pitchford, of Heckmondwike, with a time of one minute, 35.18 seconds.
This year’s sponsors are FunSwimShop.co.uk and cash prizes are £50 for the World champion, and £25 each for junior champion, and local champion.
Competitors must wear a mask or goggles, snorkel and flippers. Fancy dress is optional and novelty entrants need only complete one length. There is also a £25 prize for the fancy dress winner. Medals will be awarded to all entrants.
Bog snorkelling has come a long way since it began in 1986 and both Ireland and Australia now hold their own national championships.
Competition starts at Llanwrtyd Wells at 10am. Pre-registrations will speed up the signing in process but race numbers will only be allocated on the day.
Conventional swimming strokes are not allowed so flipper power is the key.
Sunday, August 29, is the date to get down and get dirty in Llanwrtyd this year.
For further information, email bogevents@greenevents.ltd.uk