Snowman Triathlon, Duathlon and Swims | Standard Triathlon

GPX route

The route is displayed on the map above.

Introduction

The Snowman Standard Distance Triathlon takes the traditional Olympic format and elevates it—literally.

Swim in the shadow of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), tackle a stunning (and serious) bike course through Eryri’s rugged mountain roads, and finish with a trail run that includes demanding climbs and rewarding views. This is a challenge that will test your strength, strategy, and grit, all set in the awe-inspiring beauty of Snowdonia National Park. If you’re looking for a triathlon that goes beyond the ordinary, this is it.

Description

Begin with a swim in the freshwaters of Llynnau Mymbyr under the watchful eye of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Exit the water and cross the wooden footbridge for the first time into transition.

The Snowman Bike route is famous for being one of the best triathlon cycle routes in the World. It takes in most of North Wales' most iconic climbs and routes and is a challenge in its own right. Starting close to the base of Yr Wyddfa, flow down the Nant Gwynant Pass and towards Beddgelert. Here you will meet the Glaslyn river cycling alongside the whitewater rapids. Heading over to Maentwrog along the narrow, winding ascents and descents you will then start your climb to Tan y Grisiau, Blaenau Ffestiniog and on up the Crimea pass. The equally steep descent flows down through Dolwyddelan and along the Lledr Valley to Betws Y Coed. From here, you’re almost back, but you must make the climb up to Capel Curig and the Plas Y Brenin outdoor centre before you reach transition.

There is a reason that the Snowman Triathlon regularly gets called the toughest multi-terrain triathlon in the UK. That’s because to complete this race you must first summit a mountain; Moel Siabod, the highest peak in the Moelwynion mountain range. Ascend up 3.5km of beautiful rocky paths before reaching the summit at 872m above sea level and turning round to run back down again. To finish, you must turn right and run through the forest, then back along the fire road towards the lake. The finish line framing Wales' most famous peak, Yr Wyddfa awaits.

Cut off time

In the interest of athlete safety and the safety of our volunteers on the course, there will be strict cut-off times in place.

• You have a total of 55 minutes to complete your swim and exit transition.
• You have a total of 4 hours and 25 minutes to complete your bike and exit transition.
• You have a total of 3 hours to complete your run.

Event HQ

Plas y Brenin - National Outdoor Centre
Capel Curig
Betws-y-Coed
Clwyd
LL24 0ET
UK

Included

• Lively Event Village

  Music, commentary, shopping, food, chill-out zones.

• Family friendly vibes

  Family finishes and plenty to see and do.

• On course support

  Brilliant marshals, signage, and pick up vehicles.

• Unique finisher mementos

  Collect the second part of the famous Adventure Championships series.

• Spectacular scenery

  Eryri's awe-inspiring scenery is the backdrop to your race.

• Professional timing

  Chip timing, and live online results.

Optional extra

• Race photography

You will need

If you are not already a member of British Triathlon, you will need:

• British Triathlon Federation Race Pass - £8

Prizes

Individual

• Overall - Top 3
• Junior U20 - Top 1
• Senior 20 - Top 1
• Senior 30 - Top 1
• Vet 40 - Top 1
• Vet 50 - Top 1
• Vet 60 - Top 1
• Vet 70 - Top 1

Teams

• 1st Team

A very well organised event - I compete in triathlons all around the UK and I genuinely mean that your events are amongst the best around. Superb staff and volunteers on the day, great information prior to the event, a good race day pack and a fantastic course. 2022 Participant

Entry fees