Runners keen to take on one of the UK’s toughest races as places are filled within 48 hours

Places in the Brooks Snowdonia Marathon Eryri were sold out within just two days, meaning one of the toughest and arguably the most scenic marathon in the UK is also one of the most popular.

All 2500 entry spots for the race on October 24 were quickly taken when it opened on January 1. Last year’s event filled its 2500 capacity within two weeks.

Race coordinator Jayne Lloyd said: “Just incredible. The midnight entry opening point has always been popular, but this year the entries were literally flooding in, with almost 400 taken in the first two hours.

“It’s testimony to the popularity of the race, which has really grown over the last three to four years, to now being one of the most iconic running events in the UK.

“2015 should be an incredible year for the race once again. We have a new title sponsor in the form of Brooks and will be working hard over the next 10 months to ensure that the runner experience is a good as can possibly on race day.”

The race began in 1982 and this year’s will be its 33rd staging. The route starts and finishes in Llanberis, popular starting point for ascents of Wales’ highest mountain, at around 150m altitude and its highest point is at more than 300m. It also include an off-road section, which adds to the difficulty of the course.

Last year’s race was won by Alun Vaughan in a time of 2:40:10.

A small handful of elite places are still up for grabs. Email [email protected] for details.