Pen Y Fan… A favourite destination for Sunday leisure walkers and tourists. Been there, done that! Time to up my game! With First In Events’ Fan Dance on the same day as my 40th birthday, it was too good an opportunity to pass up!
If you didn’t already know, the infamous Fan Dance is a test march carried out during both Special Forces (SAS / SBS) Selection and Pathfinder Selection. It takes place over the highest point in the Brecon Beacons, Pen Y Fan, hence the name.
The 24km route included climbing the highest point in the Brecon Beacons, Pen Y Fan, then descending to a turn-around point. Then it’s back over the ground already covered, back to the start point. Up and over Pen Y Fan twice… with a 15kg weighted vest for added discomfort, opting to ‘tab’ over the already tough route!
An incredibly tough challenge that has stood the test of time. It is very popular with those who wish to push themselves to their limits. What better way to spend your 40th birthday I thought?
The event was put on by First In Events. First In Events is a military themed outdoor activity company. Events include hill walking races, endurance events, skydiving, boot camps and survival. Keep Low – Move Fast!
Have you tackled Pen Y Fan? Which route did you take? Having done almost every route there the tourist route and the Fan Dance route are worlds apart as you’d expect! Might consider taking part again this year. It was hellish brutal but enjoyable. See where the fitness levels are after summer!
