A RUNNER is taking part in the Pen Llyn Ultra 2021 today (Saturday) to raise money for Abersoch RNLI.

Louise Baldwin started running six years ago at the age of 52.

She was not content with running around the block or taking on a flat half marathon or marathon, which is why she has decided to step out of her comfort zone to walk and run the 50 mile event.

Louise, who lives in Mynytho, told the Cambrian News: “The most that I have ever run before is a marathon, on two occasions, so having decided to take part in the Pen Llyn ‘Beautifully Brutal’ Ultra, I have picked just that – a beautiful, but brutal 50 miles around Pen Llyn.

“The Ultra starts at 5am in Aberech and then runs along the Llwybr Arfordir Cymru up to the ‘Tin man’ and around Mynydd Tir -y-Cwmwd in Llanbedrog and over to Abersoch.

“Then it is up the ‘Fishermen’s Path’ to Mynytho Common, before dropping down to Nanhoran.

“Wonderful views on the way, and then through the challenging hills of Garn Fadryn, across the paths to Edern, then across the golf course at Porthdinllaen and onto the world-famous Ty Coch pub at Morfa Nefyn.

“Then more beautiful coastal running through Nefyn and onto Nant Gwrtheyrn before a tough climb past Yr Eifl car park and on up the ‘Steps of Hell’ [BT steps] on Mynydd Gwaith to the highest point of the course.

“Finally, there are some country lanes from Llithfaen to Llannor through Aberech, along the old road to Pen -y- Chain and then the final challenge – over one mile of beach to the finish back at Aberech Sands.”

Louise added: “My reason for fundraising for Abersoch RNLI is that I am a supporter of the brave volunteers and all that they do.

“My husband and I have sailed on Pen Llyn for over 30 years and our two sons cut their sailing teeth here too.

“I have been involved with fundraising for many years, having previously organised the RNLI Dinghy Opens at South Caernarfon Yacht Club each summer, then being asked to join the Abersoch RNLI Fundraising Committee.”

A spokesperson for the Abersoch RNLI said: “We are thrilled that Louise is once again raising funds on behalf of Abersoch RNLI.

“She has worked so hard over the years fundraising on our behalf but this one really is quite a challenge. Good luck Louise from all of us at Abersoch RNLI and thank you!”

Louise has raised £465 so far.