NEARLY 200 competitors turned up for the first endurance event organised by a Newcastle Emlyn fitness trainer.

David Maund staged his own self-promoted Hydro Dragon Event recently, a 21-mile walk/jog/run challenge from Aberaeron to Lampeter.

It was the first event of its kind organised by David, himself a veteran of ultra-marathon endurance feats and a familiar face around the swimming pools in the Tivyside area with his aqua-cycling classes.

“On the whole it went well but there are a few things I have learned and will be better prepared for the next one,” said David.

“It took a lot of hard work to organise but I think it has huge potential to grow. People came from all over the country to take part and hopefully spent a bit of money in the local area and will come back in the future.

“Just under 200 people took part and around 150 finished. I think the challenge was more than some people expected.”

First man back was Gary Davies, originally from Pencader but now living in Cardiff, and he completed the demanding course in around three-and-a-half hours.

Walkers took much longer, while first lady home was Jude Evans.

The focus now turns to future events planned for later in the year: Cardigan to Tresaith on June 16 (14 miles); Cardigan to New Quay on July 7 (26 miles) and New Quay to Aberystwyth on September 22 (24 miles).

For details of all the events go to the Facebook page Hydro Dragon Events.