Saundersfoot Harbour hosts dramatic finish as coastal endurance event pushes competitors to their limits

AN INTERNATIONAL field of endurance athletes made waves in Pembrokeshire this weekend, as Saundersfoot Harbour played host to the dramatic conclusion of the Wales Swimrun—an extreme multisport race now recognised on the world stage.

The event, which took place on Saturday (July 26), saw over 200 competitors from 20 countries take on the challenging mix of coastal trail running and open-water sea swimming, starting from Freshwater East and culminating in a spectacular finish along Saundersfoot’s bustling harbour decking.

Now officially part of the Envol Global Swimrun Series, the Wales Swimrun is fast becoming one of the most iconic fixtures on the international endurance calendar. The event is organised by Activity Wales Events, which has been praised for its slick logistics, warm community atmosphere, and showcasing of Pembrokeshire’s rugged beauty.

Coast to coast, with no let-up

Athletes were bussed out from Saundersfoot Harbour early on Saturday morning for staggered starts along the coast. Full-distance competitors faced an estimated 22 kilometres of trail running and 7 kilometres of sea swimming, with the sprint category covering a shorter but still gruelling route.

The course wound its way from Freshwater East through Manorbier, Lydstep, Tenby and Waterwynch Bay, before snaking back inland and descending triumphantly onto the Saundersfoot promenade, cheered by hundreds of spectators and volunteers.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path and its surrounding bays provided a dramatic backdrop—but also a series of relentless climbs, sharp terrain, and strong tides that tested even the most experienced athletes.

Partnership with Saundersfoot Harbour

This year marks the first in a three-year partnership between Activity Wales and Saundersfoot Harbour Authority, securing the popular seaside village as the official race finish location.

Nicola Gandy, representing Saundersfoot Harbour, said: “It’s been incredible to welcome the Swimrun community to the harbour. The atmosphere has been electric, and the event brings real energy and visibility to Saundersfoot. We’re proud to be part of it.”

The partnership is expected to benefit local businesses and tourism, with many cafés, restaurants and shops reporting increased footfall over the weekend.

A community effort

Volunteers were stationed along the course to provide hydration, safety support, and encouragement, while marshals ensured racers stayed on track. The event also included a Friday evening welcome dinner and race briefing at Regency Hall, reinforcing the event’s inclusive and communal spirit.

The Herald understands organisers are keen to promote Pembrokeshire’s coastline as a premier global destination for endurance sport, with the Swimrun event forming part of a wider strategy to increase year-round tourism and community engagement.

Competitors raced either solo or in pairs, linked by a mandatory towline and required to stay within 10 metres of each other throughout the race.

Looking ahead

With its status as a qualifier for the Envol World Championship, the Wales Swimrun is now firmly on the global circuit. Organisers are already looking ahead to 2026, with plans to expand categories and further enhance local involvement.

One spectator, James Griffiths from Tenby, said: “We came down with the kids to watch the finish and were absolutely blown away. The effort the athletes put in—and the way the whole village has embraced it—is just brilliant.”

As the last competitors crossed the line just before the 2:30pm cut-off, the sense of achievement, camaraderie and local pride was unmistakable.

Images: Activity Wales Events/Herald