AN ultra marathon set to take place in Powys this weekend has become an early victim to weather.
The Devil's Staircase Ultra Trail Race, which had been set to take place around the town of Llanwrtyd Wells on Saturday, October 4, was cancelled by race organisers on Friday due to Storm Amy.
A yellow weather warning for wind is in place between 3pm Today and midnight on Saturday as Storm Amy hits the UK.
“We’re gutted to announce that the Get Jerky Devil’s Staircase Ultra Race has been cancelled,” organisers announced in a post on the Devil's Staircase Ultra Trail Race Facebook page just after midday on Friday.
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“With Storm Amy forecast to hit Wales tonight and tomorrow, the safety of our runners, volunteers and local communities must come first.
“This decision hasn’t been taken lightly, and we know how much time, training and excitement has gone into preparing for this event.
READ MORE: Powys visitor attraction set to close for day amid strong winds from Storm Amy
“Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Please check your emails for further details and next steps. Stay safe, and we’ll be back stronger.”
The race, a distance of roughly 31 miles, is in its infancy but has been disrupted in previous years, due to Covid.
It is a scenic and enjoyable, yet arduous race, with a total ascent and descent of about 5,200ft (1,585m).
Most of the race is a combination of off road and on-road sections, including the hellishly steep ascent (25 per cent) of the iconic Devil's Staircase.
Travel disruption and power cuts are expected across parts of Wales this weekend, according to the Met Office.
West to southwesterly winds are set to strengthen and reach gusts of 45-55mph in places, with the potential of gusts to reach 60-65mph along some exposed coastal areas in the west, before easing later in the day.
The yellow warning affects Powys, as well as Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Anglesey, Pembrokeshire and Wrexham.
The forecast is for very windy weather on Friday afternoon as Storm Amy moves in from the west, bringing a band of heavy rain and very strong winds.
Gales are expected on the coasts, especially towards the west.
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