Gareth Jones Finishes 5th at Beacons Way Ultra: An Interview with Our Ambassador
Trail Run Advisor ambassador Gareth Jones just delivered a stellar performance at the Beacons Way Ultra, finishing 5th in a 100-mile challenge across the rugged Welsh mountains. We caught up with him shortly after the race to hear more about his experience—what pushed him through the toughest sections, how he fuelled, and what’s next on his ultra trail calendar.
Q1. What inspired you to take on this 100-mile challenge, and how did you prepare both mentally and physically for the race?
What inspired me was that it’s a local race—one I’ve always wanted to do because it’s right on my doorstep. I guess the physical and mental preparation has been building for a couple of months during Marathon des Sables, Ultra Trail Snowdonia and other races I’ve done. But this was my race, and I went into it giving my all.
Q2. Can you walk us through some of the most memorable moments on the course – both the highs and the toughest challenges?
The most memorable moment was towards the finish, when I wanted to give up—but my pacer stepped in and literally pushed me on the back, giving me the extra drive to keep moving. I also loved going up Pen y Fan, especially crossing it in the dark. It’s a seriously tough climb, but in the dark, I couldn’t see anything—I was just running past other runners, and it was incredible.
Q3. How would you rate the race in terms of organization, route markings, aid stations, and the overall atmosphere?
This is without a doubt one of the best races I’ve done. The organization was near perfect. The checkpoints were on point, and mountain rescue crews were stationed on the cliffs, making sure everything was safe. Honestly, I think it’s the best company I’ve ever run with. The atmosphere was amazing from start to finish—the finish line even felt like a party! There were people waiting to take portrait photos, warm food, showers—it was all fantastic.
Q4. What nutrition strategies did you rely on to get through the 100 miles? Anything you’d do differently next time?
As always, my nutrition was on point. My rule is to eat my body weight in carbs—so, 80g of carbs per hour, since I weigh 80kg. I used that as a baseline. I relied on pastries, carb chews, and a new electrolyte drink I tried called Island Nutrition—it was really good. At the halfway point, I even had macaroni and hot dogs, which were actually fantastic!
Q5. Now that it’s behind you, what’s your biggest takeaway from the experience, and what’s your next goal on the horizon?
My biggest takeaway is that I can go faster—and further. That’s huge. One day soon, I’m going to come away with a podium finish. What’s next? In eight days, I’ll be taking on Race Across Scotland—215 miles. That’s going to be an experience in itself.
Pushing Limits and Looking Ahead
From fighting through the darkest climbs of Pen y Fan to fuelling on macaroni and grit, Gareth continues to show what authentic endurance looks like. We’re proud to have him as part of the Trail Run Advisor community and can’t wait to follow his next adventure across Scotland.
Good luck Gareth—we’ll be cheering you on!
