Latest news with #UltraTrailSnowdonia
Yahoo
11-08-2025
- Yahoo
I'm a mum who likes to hike: here's how I update my kit to make it breastfeeding-friendly
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Hiking through woods and walking coastal paths is a fantastic way to explore your surroundings, stay fit and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. However, factor in a baby or toddler who needs breastfeeding and things get a little more…challenging. But little beats getting to indoctrinate, ahem, I mean, share your passion for the great outdoors with your children, so this is a challenge worth persevering with. First off, you'll need a way to carry your new mini adventure companion, as well as the correct kit to make breastfeeding them outside comfortable for you both. As anyone who has breastfed a baby or toddler knows, it's thirsty work - so you'll need a way to stay hydrated even on a short walk. And if the temperature dips, you'll need a way to keep you both protected from the elements too. Stephanie Case recently won the Ultra Trail Snowdonia 100k running race, while breastfeeding her daughter en route - read the story here. While that sounds like a lot to consider, with the right mindset and kit, hiking with your infant can be a glorious way to enjoy the outdoors together. Yes, your pace might have to slow down and you might have to stop more frequently to feed, but that's no bad thing. It's simply more opportunity to pay attention to the small wonders of nature. These days I'm less interested in PBs and more interested in finding animal tracks, and discovering which flowers are blooming. So don't be put off getting outside and exploring with your little one. Just get the right kit and learn how to embrace your new hiking buddy. Read on to find out how I update my hiking kit when breastfeeding. Essential kit Whether you're breastfeeding a newborn baby or a toddler - the basic premise is the same. You'll need to wear the right kit to enable you to easily and comfortably feed them anywhere. For the purposes of this feature, I'll show you how I've updated my hiking kit to accommodate feeding my 18-month-old, but the same kit could be used (and in some cases modified) for younger or older infants. Baby carrier: If you're adventuring with a non-walking infant - or one that won't manage the whole distance - you'll need a convenient way to carry them. Babywearing coat: When it gets cold, you'll want a way to keep you and your baby snug and dry on your hike. Babywearing hoodie: Perfect for when it's too warm for a coat, but too cold for just a t-shirt. Nursing bra: A bra designed specifically for nursing makes breastfeeding much easier, especially when you're outside. Nursing top: I personally like a nursing specific top as it allows easy access to the bra while offering plenty of coverage. Water bottle: I like the convenience of a straw bottle for staying hydrated on walks with my children. (So do they.) Baby carrier The best baby carriers are the most convenient and least restrictive way to explore outside with little ones that can't walk Make sure the carrier you use is ergonomically designed and hip healthy First up, you need a way to bring your infant along for the ride. While there are a range of excellent off-road pushchairs and strollers that make light work of bumpy terrain, nothing offers all-terrain access like a baby carrier. If your route includes narrow trails, tight gates or stiles, you'll definitely need a carrier. My preferred option is the Omni Deluxe All-in-One Baby Carrier. It's easy to adjust, comfortable to wear and you can carry your baby facing you from birth, outward facing (from five months) or on your back (from six months). When it comes to carriers, you want to make sure the one you choose is ergonomic for little bodies, paying close attention to their hip position. All Ergobaby carriers have been acknowledged by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as 'Hip Healthy', plus they've been awarded a Seal of Approval by the AGR of Germany as 'Back Healthy' for babies and parents. If you carry your baby facing forwards, you can even breastfeed on the go. There's a hood you can pull up for sun protection, as well as privacy. I also like the six storage areas, perfect for keys, phone, wallet, teethers etc. It's also machine washable, which is always handy. If you're looking for a carrier to go the distance, The Omni Deluxe baby carrier can be used from 7lb right through to 45lb, which is the average weight of a four-year-old. Plus like their other carriers, the Omni Deluxe comes with the ErgoPromise Lifetime Guarantee. Babywearing coat Make sure your coat can fit you and your child inside, so you both stay warm and dry Pick a coat with a detachable panel for the most versatile option When it comes to keeping warm and dry on your hike, you'll need to think about a protective jacket for two, not one, AKA the babywearing coat. This style of garment typically has an additional zip on panel which, when attached, enlarges the coat and makes it possible to wear the whole ensemble over the top of a baby in a carrier. My preferred option is Seraphine's Long Maternity & Babywearing Puffer Coat. You can start to wear this in pregnancy, as the zip-away panels extend the sides for your growing bump. Then once the baby arrives, attach the detachable kangaroo panel and you're both ready for an adventure. The outer quilted fabric is shower resistant and the natural down and feather padding is exceptionally snug. There's also two convenient side pockets, ideal for breastfeeding snacks. And once you're done babywearing? Simply unzip the extra panel, and you've got a standard puffer jacket, perfect for one. Babywearing hoodie A handy option for when it's too warm for a coat Zip-up functionality makes it easy to remove without waking the baby The weather is nothing if not unpredictable, so it pays to be prepared. Don't make the mistake (as I have) of seeing a dark sky and wearing a jumper under the baby carrier, only for the sun to come out after the child has fallen asleep, rendering you a trapped sweaty mess. The perfect answer to this is a babywearing hoodie. Wear a comfy base layer, put your carrier on, then finish off with a babywearing hoodie. Go for a zipped one, as it crucially allows you to remove it without having to take the carrier off and committing the cardinal sin of disturbing a sleeping baby. My favourite choice for the job is Seraphine's 3 In 1 Relaxed Fit Maternity Hoodie. First of all, it's incredibly comfortable. I love the long length and the thumb holes in the cuff are a nostalgically comforting design choice. But most importantly, it's easy to wear over a baby carrier, both undone and done up, with the attachable kangaroo panel. It's also comfortable to feed in, ideal if you want to keep your baby cosy or create some privacy. Nursing bra Breastfeeding is much more comfortable when wearing a correct fitting nursing bra Make sure you get fitting advice from a professional Pregnancy can affect everything from the hair on your head to the size of your feet, so it's little wonder the cascade of hormonal changes can also impact breast size too. Breastfeeding can also affect your size, and fluctuations are normal. All of above can make knowing what size bra to get quite tricky and, with a tiny baby in tow, popping to the shops for a quick bra fitting isn't always practical. If you're in a size conundrum, consider an online fitting service. I was recently super impressed with the free virtual fitting service offered by Bravissimo, who got my size spot on the first time. As for specific bras, for short hikes or low-impact exercise, I like Bravissimo's Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra. It's seamless and non-wired, and also available in a 'Fuller Cup' size, making it a super comfortable choice. The thick straps offer good support and the simple drop down cups are easy to use while wrangling a baby. For more support on a longer or more challenging route, my go to option is the Nursing Sports Bra - Artemis from Natal Active, which is designed with high impact workouts in mind. It's lightly padded, which I like, although you can remove the insert. You can also choose to wear it with the wide straps straight down or cross-backed, I prefer the latter for even more support. Nursing top Provides easy access to make breastfeeding anywhere a doddle Pick bamboo for a comfortable, sweat-wicking choice You don't need a nursing top, you could layer up a vest (I really like Marks and Spencer's Cotton Rich Secret Support Nursing Vest) with a t-shirt, and I simply pull up the top and pull down the vest when it's time to feed. But for easy feeding when out and about, I don't think you can beat the convenience of a nursing top. These are designed to have a lift up section to allow for easy access when it's feeding time, while also providing good coverage. I like Seraphine's Twin Pack Maternity & Nursing T-Shirts when I'm out on a hike, as they're made from ultra-soft bamboo; a great option for activewear thanks to its mighty sweat-wicking properties. They're also super stretchy, meaning you can wear them when pregnant through to postpartum. And they're cut quite long too, so perfect for layering on cooler days. Water bottle Breastfeeding mums need to stay hydrated, as producing milk requires a lot of water Pick a water bottle that is ultra-convenient and easy to carry with you Drinking enough water while breastfeeding is important, as breast milk is made up of about 87% water. Considering that, on average, during the first six months of exclusive breastfeeding, mums produce around 750ml of milk a day, you can see why getting enough sips in is vital. Dehydrating while breastfeeding is no fun and can negatively impact milk supply, not to mention lead to fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches and nausea. Guidelines on how much to drink vary around the world, but in Europe the recommended total intake suggested for breastfeeding women is around 2700ml, as suggested by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Suffice to say, you'll want to bring some water with you when you head out. My top choice for staying hydrated on a hike is the Thrive Flip Straw 32oz Bottle with Tritan Renew from Camelbak. The flip out straw is really convenient whether you're at home or out exploring, and the leak-proof cap is genius. Both of these features are great for my 18-month-old too, who enjoys 'sharing' anything I'm consuming. And despite the size (32oz), it's pretty lightweight. Plus you can chuck the whole thing in the dishwasher, which is always a bonus. If you like your water cold, you'd prefer the Thrive Flip Straw 25oz Bottle, Insulated Stainless Steel. The vacuum insulated stainless steel will keep your drink ice cold for hours, however it's heavier, so I prefer to keep this one for home and in the car.
Western Telegraph
07-08-2025
- Sport
- Western Telegraph
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."
National Post
06-06-2025
- Sport
- National Post
Canadian ultramarathoner stopped to breastfeed daughter and still won
Mothers know how to juggle tasks, but one mom showed how she can juggle the needs of her newborn — and win a race. Article content Stephanie Case, 42, a Canadian who lives in Chamonix, France, entered the 100-km Ultra-Trail Snowdonia in Eryri National Park in Wales on May 17 with 'no expectations,' so when she won, it was 'a surprise,' she wrote on Instagram. Article content Article content The runner had her daughter just six months ago and is still breastfeeding. Article content Article content She also hadn't entered a race in three years due to 'recurrent miscarriages and IVF failures,' Case shared, but wanted it to serve as a 'warmup' to another event — next month's 165-km Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run in Colorado. Article content 'My goals were to enjoy myself and make sure Pepper was fed at aid stations,' she continued. Article content Case noted that she started in the 'last wave,' giving the leaders a 30-minute head start. Article content 'Sure, I had hundreds of runners in front of me, but I could go at my own pace in blissful ignorance of my placing,' the mom explained. Article content View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stephanie Case (@theultrarunnergirl) Article content Article content Case described it like riding a bike, and said it was a reminder that she 'hadn't lost a thing' over the past three years of not racing. Article content She said that her partner carried their baby to the 20-, 50- and 80-kilometre checkpoints and handed the little one over for a few minutes to feed before going back to running. Article content Case told the outlet that she was more concerned with her fuel intake and feeding schedule than her race time. Article content View this post on Instagram A post shared by Peignée Verticale (@peigneeverticale)
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Sporting success for Cumbrian accountancy firm employees
Two Armstrong Watson employees have been celebrated for their sporting achievements. Lauren Graham, audit and assurance director, from Carlisle, and Michael Morris, Newcastle audit partner, have both excelled in their respective sports. Ms Graham, a seasoned Cumbrian fell runner, finished in second place in the Ultra Trail Snowdonia 100km race, completing the course in 16 hours and 57 minutes. Ms Graham, a seasoned Cumbrian fell runner, finished in second place in the Ultra Trail Snowdonia 100km race (Image: Supplied) The race is considered one of the UK's toughest endurance challenges, covering more than 6,500m of elevation. Ms Graham managed to execute the first half of the race well to take the lead going into 50km but hit a wall going up Snowden. She said: "I entered the UTS 100k knowing both the training and the race would be tough and knowing how much I could grow by being pushed to new limits. "I love training and love any opportunity to learn, and this race did not disappoint. "The course was brutal, yet beautiful. "At 80k, I was cramping up badly, but the support from my Cumbrian girls at the assisted checkpoint gave me the motivation and determination to push through and get the job done. "You just need to find something to keep going and you can still make that finish line. "I believe the harder you work, the luckier you get." Meanwhile, Mr Morris represented Great Britain at the 2025 Europe Triathlon Middle Distance Championships in Pamplona, Spain, securing second place in his class. He said: "It was possibly the hardest, but yet one of the most beautiful races I have ever competed in. "The city is steeped in history and was simply stunning. Michael Morris, Newcastle audit partner at Armstrong Watson, represented Great Britain at the 2025 Europe Triathlon Middle Distance Championships in Pamplona, Spain (Image: Supplied) "Illness three weeks before the event set me back a little and that combined with the heat and the really hilly bike and run courses meant there was nothing left in the tank at all at the finish line. "It was a relief to finish. "Whilst my target was the gold – I really am pleased, relieved and grateful to have made the podium but the next time I go back to Pamplona, it will be for a far more leisurely trip." Both Ms Graham and Mr Morris are set to compete as part of Armstrong Watson's UK Challenge 2025 team later this summer. Michael Morris in Pamplona for the 2025 Europe Triathlon Middle Distance Championships (Image: Supplied) The event, set in the Lake District from July 10 to 13, will see more than 80 corporate teams from across the UK compete. Joanna Gray, head of audit and assurance, said: "At Armstrong Watson, we understand that success is forged through dedication, teamwork and continuous improvement - values that Lauren and Michael both exemplify in their respective sports and their leadership in audit. "We congratulate them on their remarkable achievements." In addition to their upcoming participation in the UK Challenge 2025, both Ms Graham and Mr Morris have further sporting events lined up. Mr Morris is set to take on the 70.3 World Championships in Marbella in November, while Ms Graham has qualified for the CCC next August - the UTMB world finals. In their day jobs as audit and assurance leaders, Ms Graham and Mr Morris require resilience, strategy, and an ability to perform under pressure, qualities they both hold in abundance.
