07-08-2025
Dubai-based Tenby runner completes Ultra Trail Snowdonia
Matthew May, originally from Tenby but now based in Dubai, took on the 56km Ultra Trail Snowdonia in aid of the Wales Air Ambulance, raising more than £300 alongside teammate Harry Beck.
Mr May said: "Growing up in West Wales, I spent a lot of time sailing, so I saw the helicopter called out multiple times, a memorable experience.
"I still have family in the region and my father works for the charity as a regional fundraising manager, so I wanted to do something to support the service."
The 30-year-old completed the full course in under 13 hours on May 17, describing the experience as one of the toughest challenges he has faced.
He said: "With over 3,000 metres elevation, it's not the easiest trail to cover and took around just under thirteen hours to complete.
"These types of races are more than just runs; they are full of adventures.
"You have to carry all the right gear, emergency kit and the proper nutrition.
"Anything can happen up there."
Mr May's connection to the Wales Air Ambulance runs deep.
He has visited the charity's Dafen base, where he met the crew and learned more about their life-saving work.
He said: "It really brought home why it is important to fundraise for the charity; they help thousands of people each year and save lives."
The Wales Air Ambulance relies on public donations to meet its annual operating costs of £11.2 million.
The service delivers advanced critical care across Wales and is consultant-led, bringing hospital-level treatment directly to patients in emergencies.
Elaine Orr, regional fundraising manager for North West Wales, said: "We are hugely grateful to Matt and Harry for taking part in the Ultra Trail Snowdonia in aid of our service.
"It was no easy feat, and we are delighted everyone completed their distances in time.
"It sounds like it was a wonderful reunion for Matt and his family and friends and helped raise funds for our charity too.
"Our supporters are incredible, we really couldn't do what we do without them, through their fundraising, they help us save thousands of lives each year."
Mr May's running journey began with school cross-country races and led to the Cardiff Half Marathon nearly a decade ago.
He now leads a Dubai-based trail running group called Jebel Endurance, guiding runners through the UAE mountains every weekend.
He said: "I wanted to try more adventurous, harder challenges and it's taken me months to build up to the Snowdonia ultra.
"It was one of the hardest things I have ever done.
"It demanded a lot of mental and physical strength, but I absolutely loved taking in the beautiful scenery."
