CARDIGAN fitness coach Rhys Harries and friends Sam Morris and Barry Richards will be taking part in a 100km endurance event around the Isle of Arran in Scotland next month.

The event over the weekend of April 14-15 consists of two 50km days on foot and includes more than 10,000ft of climbing, with day two being particularly brutal.

With a track following steep mountains and deep glens, the challenge is a tough one, but Rhys, who was part of Team GB Amateur Duathlon in 2015 /16, is looking forward to it.

“It’s definitely a challenge. I want to complete it in one piece even though it’s a lot more running than I’d like to do in a day and quite extreme. But being competitive, I know I’ll want to gain a high finish,” said Rhys who admitted he was excited and nervous.

“Sam and Barry have both have been training hard putting in regular long days on foot.

“Amazingly, Norman, Sam's dog has run almost every step of the training with him!

“Personally, having competed in triathlon for a few years and with many long-distance events to come, this is an opportunity to take on a different challenge before continuing with coaching clients and competing in some demanding events through the year.”

After day one, the men will set up camp in the nominated base camp with 500 other athletes before tackling a mountain the size of Pen y Fan on the second day.

Rhys, who worked at both Cardigan and Crymych leisure centres in the past before establishing his own fitness business in Llechryd, said: “As a full time coach, I've had the opportunity to work with some amazingly talented athletes from the area.

“It's inspiring and a privilege to work with and to get the opportunity to experience such adventures with people.

“If I could give one piece of advice it would be to seize the opportunity, never fear failing and don't let life pass you by without experiencing those amazing 'I did that moment'.”

If you’re interested in following the trio’s progress over the weekend, visit the Rhys Harries Fitness Coaching Facebook page. This will have regular updates and videos of the weekend.