Racing up Snowdon

Come rain or shine, up to 550 runners are expected to gather at the bottom of Wales' highest mountain for a challenge to reach the formidable heights in Ras yr Wyddfa. Whatever the weather, viewers won't have to move an inch from the sofa as S4C's cameras will follow the runners every step of the way.

Will anyone challenge the current Snowdon Race record, held by legendary mountain runner Kenny Stuart? In 1985, Stuart completed the run in a record 62'29" and returns to this year's race as the official race starter. With the 2009 Commonwealth Mountain Running Champion, Kenyan runner Wilson Chemweno, taking part in his first Snowdon Race, an upset could be on the cards.

S4C's Ras yr Wyddfa presentation team include Gareth Roberts, Dot Davies reporting from the summit, and John Hardy commentating on the race.

"My admiration for anyone running the Snowdon Race is huge," explains John, who also presents S4C's daily magazine programmes, Wedi 3 and Wedi 7. "The race has grown in numbers since it started and is now one of the biggest mountain races in Europe. Every year the people of Llanberis turn out to support the competitors. Fingers crossed we'll be lucky with the weather. The views are breathtaking even though the runners are too busy concentrating to take any notice."

John has quite a bit of experience as a runner having completed the London Marathon earlier this year. But the marathon hasn't inspired him to take part in other running challenges like Ras yr Wyddfa.

"No chance -; I'm quite happy keeping my feet firmly on the ground this time. I've had my mid-life crisis running this year's marathon and the knees are still aching," says John with a smile.