Powys mountain bike chariot racing event cancelled

One of Green Events’ madcap capers – alongside big sibling events like the Man v Horse Marathon taking place in June and August’s World Bog Snorkelling Championships – the first event on the 2023 calendar has sadly been cancelled due to a lack of numbers.

Scheduled to take place in Llanwrtyd Wells this Saturday, January 14, at the Manor Adventure Centre, organisers say they cannot afford to run events at a loss amidst the current energy and cost-of-living crisis.

“Hello all, bad news I'm afraid. Owing to a lack of people entering the chariot racing this weekend it has become unviable for us to run the event, so regretfully it will not be taking place as advertised,” said Llanwrtyd pub the Neuadd Arms Hotel, which help run the event, on its Facebook page.

“This also applies to the toga party in the evening as well. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause if people have made arrangements, but we can't afford to run events at a loss in the current economic circumstances.”

The event involves special chariots built using traditional Roman mild steel, vulcanised rubber and welding techniques racing against each other and the clock to determine this year's world champions.

Designed to be pulled by two mountain bikes alongside each other, the winning team has to demonstrate exceptional skill and courage, and also need to co-ordinate and co-operate fully as a single unit to overcome all challengers.

The event had been open to teams of three people over the age of 16 years; two on mountain bikes providing the power while a third (the charioteer) is positioned in the chariot.

Bikes and chariots are provided by the organisers, costumes are welcome but not essential.

Further information about the event, or any of the other Green Events offerings, can be found on the Green Events website at www.green-events.co.uk, visit their Facebook page or contact Bob Greenhough via email on bob.g@green-events.co.uk.