A TEMPO man is bracing himself for “a brutal test of physical and mental endurance” when he takes on a grueling climb up Snowdownia, one of the highest mountains in the British Isles.
Chris Gilroy will take on the ultimate feat on Friday, May 16, when he treks around 1,085 metres above sea level in one of Europe’s most demanding ultra-marathons, Ultra-Trail Snowdownia.
The fitness enthusiast attempted to conquer the event last year but he was forced to pull out during the competition.
He’s determined to return stronger and more equipped this month.
“The race spans 168 km (104 miles) with over 9,500 metres of climbing, taking runners deep into the wild, mountainous terrain of Snowdonia National Park,” Mr Gilroy explained to the ‘Herald.
“Last year, I attempted this same race and made it to mile 70 before succumbing to exhaustion.
“I wasn’t alone, only 90 out of 300 runners finished. It’s a brutal test of physical and mental endurance. This year, I’m coming back stronger, more prepared, and backed by data,” he added.
The Tempo man has underwent months of training and preparation for the challenging event.
“This isn’t just about racing it’s about how science, resilience, and local grit can come together to overcome challenges,” explained the Fermanagh fitness enthusiast.
Last year, Mr Gilroy took part in a grueling charity fundraiser, trekking up Slieve Donard 37 times. Scaling up and down the Down mountain helped prepare him for his latest challenge.
“The mental side of ultra running, when you’re 12 hours in and you’ve invested so much time in it, it’s very hard to back down. That’s a very good mind set to have for everything,” he explained.
Mr Gilroy raised money for Derry charity ‘Men’s Action Network’. Founded in 1994, it’s main aim is to help males who have suffered from domestic or sexual abuse or coercive behaviour.
He also supported ‘Men’s Alliance’. Formed from a Facebook group in 2018, the charity is a peer support group which provides help to males who have suffered from domestic violence.