The first Dragon’s Back Race took place in 1992 and attracted some of the very best mountain and ultra runners in the world. (I’m not sure the name ‘Trail runner' was even in use then.) The 5 stages along the mountain spine of Wales tested them to the limit, and with the backing of an oil company as sponsor the press coverage was extensive, helped by the fact the race was won by a mixed pair, Helene Diamantides and Martin Stone.

Shane Ohly, the Race Director for the 2012 Dragon's Back Race® chats with Helene Whitaker (nee Diamantides) and Martin Stone and asks them to reflect on their victory twenty years ago.

On an overcast evening in September 1992, two weary but determined runners toiled up steep limestone cliffs to reach the ruins of Carreg Cennen castle in South Wales and complete the inaugural Dragon’s Back Race™ .

In due course we plan to publish a comprehensive article about the event history but in the meantime there was some excellent reporting from the event in 1992 that will give you a great perspective on the event.