RUNNING enthusiasts in Powys are being reminded that there is only a month to go until entries close for one of the county’s most popular and scenic races.

The Rhayader Round the Lakes Race takes place in March, but entries for the race close one month from today, February 3, and organisers Rhayader Running Club are reminding locals and those from further afield to remember to sign up for the two distances on offer – a 10k or 30k race.

“Pass it on, tell your mates and let your running clubs know. Just 31 days until entries close at midnight on Friday 3rd Feb,” read a post on the Rhayader Round the Lakes Race Facebook page.

The race takes place on Saturday, March 4, offering runners distances of 10 and 30 kilometres, which will both begin and finish at Rhayader Rugby Club.

The 30km route takes runners out of town and around the beautiful Elan Valley dams, while the 10km race takes runners over a shorter distance up to the Elan Valley and back.

Entry for the 10k is £12 and £27 for the 30k, with the cut off for entries and transfers at 11.59pm on February 3. There will be no refunds or deferrals.

The 30k race runs through the picturesque countryside of the Elan Valley, over one of the most scenic courses in the UK. The route is challenging and exposed to the weather, especially on the higher parts of the route.

The 10k route takes you out to the Elan Valley and back to the town. For both races, roads will be open during the race.

The start time for the 10k race will be at 11.15am, with the 30k race starting at 11.30am. Runners will be able to pick up their race numbers and timing chips from race HQ at the rugby club (LD6 5BU) between 9am and 10.45am.

“We hope you enjoy the day and spend some time in Rhayader town,” said Rhayader Running Club, who have been hosting the event for almost 40 years, with the inaugural 20-mile race taking place in 1984.

“We are proud that our races are a major contributor to the local economy – you help us do that by shopping, staying, eating and drinking in and around the lovely town of Rhayader and by enjoying the Elan Valley.”

It has grown hugely in popularity since. A 5-mile race was introduced shortly afterwards and was replaced by the 10km in 2021.

You can enter the race at https://www.riderhq.com/events/p/tkllodcs/f/rhayader-round-the-lakes-2023, via the Rhayader Running Club website at http://rhayaderac.org.uk/roundthelakes/index.php or via the Rhayader Round the Lakes Race Facebook page.