BLACK DRAGON CHALLENGE 2025

LOWA Sponsorship – Saturday 5th April 2025 – The Brecon Mountain Rescue Team – Black Dragon Challenge

The day began with a crisp breeze in the air as the sun rose over Wales on what was set to be a glorious spring day! 

At Llangorse Community Centre, the Brecon Mountain Rescue Team were all ready for action at 6 am with sign-up tables at the ready, hot tea, coffee, and biscuits, of course, for all the entrants geared up for the Black Dragon Challenge, including our own LOWA team. 

The challenge offers three routes: the Endurance at 28 miles (29 this year for a last-minute map change), the Standard at 22 miles and the Ridge at 16 miles. All are challenging in their own way for those who take part. With a mix of trail runners, hikers and those who even brought their dogs along, you could feel the excitement in the air. Everyone was set for an adventure. 

With our bags packed with the relevant kit items, map, compass, first aid etc. and one last quick slurp of tea, everyone headed to the start line.  The BMRT spare no expense when it comes to talking everyone through the relevant steps of health and safety. They have a large team, all volunteers, in position for all eventualities.

And off we go!  Through the village of Llangorse and towards Mynydd Troed Copa Deheuol, the first ascent up onto the hills close to a 600 m elevation. With the sun still moderately low and the breeze behind us, this was a calm start to the hike. As we took the ridge from Castell Dinas, the calm breeze went from a slight whisper to a strong 40 mph wind, the level of concentration swiftly went from a light chat to keeping your head down and staying upright! 

Our highest peak was Waun Fach at 800 m, but we didn’t stop long to take in the view as the blustery cold wind was still against us. As we descended back down, the sun grew higher in the sky, and what was at first a cold weather wrapped up day, with base layers, waterproofs, hats and gloves, was now much hotter! 

We walked on towards Mynydd Du Forest, and the pure magic of the hike started to unfold. The BMRT have put this route together beautifully, challenging but beautiful. Not only were we able to enjoy some of the adventurous Black Mountain peaks, but we hiked through spring green glades, enchanting woods, alongside babbling brooks and historic villages of Wales. One of the checkpoints was even connected to a pub!

The team either wore the Renegade Evo GTX Mid or the Innovo GTX Mid, both were ideal for this hike and the weather. The Innovo allowed swift flexibility over the twists and turns of the varying terrains, whilst the Renegade Evo offered a little more stability on the rockier facias. All had tired yet pain-free feet at the end of the day. 

As the horizon carried on and the hike came to an end, you were reminded of how vast an area the Black Mountains are. It truly puts into perspective how much space and varying terrain the rescue team must cover. To have a team purely run by volunteers who are ready to step out into the wilderness, at any time of day, night, or weather conditions, is highly admirable. 

These events allow the BMRT to continue their hard work and to keep people safe whilst they enjoy the beauty that the Beacons have to offer. Next time you're in the area, be sure to support them with a small donation if you can, or perhaps click through and donate today. 

Better still, see you at the next challenge this coming September – Beat The Beacons!

What are you waiting for? The rugged and inspiring Welsh mountains will take your breath away!