Tuesday, 3 January, 2012
Record-Breaking Nos Galan
British Lion and Wales rugby legend Shane Williams was the 2011 Nos Galan Mystery Runner, accompanied by Wales and Ospreys team mate Ian Evans.
More than 1,300 runners participated in this year’s Nos Galan Road Races in Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve.
It was the biggest field of runners for the past 20 years and organisers Rhondda Cynon Taf Council are delighted with the success of the event.
Shane, 34, was capped 87 times for Wales and retired from international rugby with a spectacular try in the last minute of the game against Australia in the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, on December 3. He continues to be a key player with regional side Ospreys
Ian Evans, 27, lives in the Cynon Valley and began his rugby career with Abercwmboi RFC.
Capped 17 times for Wales, he also played in Shane’s last game at the Millennium Stadium in December 2011 and is hoping to be included in Warren Gatland’s Six Nations Squad 2012.
The Nos Galan Road Races, which started in 1958, are run every New Year’s Eve in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran.
For the first time in its history, the 2011 event included the first-ever Nos Galan Big Sing.
Everyone on the night joined in the singing of the famous Welsh hymn Calon Lan, the official Nos Galan Anthem, led by the children of Caegarw Primary School, Mountain Ash
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan Committee said: “Nos Galan has once again been a massive success for us, with thousands of people converging on Mountain Ash town centre.
“We are delighted to once again have had two great sports people, Shane Williams and Ian Evans, representing the spirit of Guto Nyth Bran.
“It is always a great spectacle to see the Nos Galan Mystery Runner making their appearance in Mountain Ash and 2011 was no exception.
“Both Ian and Shane will now go down in history as Nos Galan Mystery Runners, following in the footsteps of the 51 Nos Galan Mystery Runners before them.
“Nos Galan 2011 was a record-breaking year for us, with entries from all over Wales, the UK, and even further afield, and our Nos Galan website has had visitors from all over the world, endorsing the fact that Nos Galan is well and truly a global event.
Nos Galan 2011 consisted of a series of Childrens’ Races, Elite Race and a 5km Adults’ Race as well as a spectacular fireworks display. Other attractions on the day included stilt walkers, funfair rides, fire juggling and street entertainers.
Both Shane and Ian ran down the hillside from St Gwynno’s Church, Llanwono, to a bustling Mountain Ash town centre to light the Nos Galan beacon at Rhos Square in Oxford Street.
Before doing this, the pair laid a wreath upon the grave of Guto Nyth Bran within the churchyard at St Gwynno’s Church, as well as taking part in a poignant memorial service.
Previous Nos Galan Mystery Runners have included Linford Christie, John Hartson, James Hook, Nicole Cook, Jamie Roberts, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins.
Nos Galan 2011 was once again supported by The Valleys Heart and Soul initiative, which aims to raise awareness of the region as a tourist destination, bringing communities closer together and helping to restore pride and passion into the area.
To view all the Nos Galan 2011 images visit the Picture Gallery
Tuesday, 20 December, 2011
More Than 750 People Registered
Official figures show that a staggering 750 people have already registered to take part in the Nos Galan Road Races in Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve.
Thousands of people are expected to flock to the town centre on Saturday, December 31, for the annual event held in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran.
And there is still time to register to run on the big night!
The world-famous Nos Galan Road Races, organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, are now into their 53rd year and will this year incorporate the first-ever Nos Galan Big Sing.
Everyone on the night will be invited to join in the singing of the famous Welsh hymn Calon Lan, led by the children of Caegarw Primary School, Mountain Ash.
Hundreds of official Nos Galan race packs have already been sent out to participants and should be received in the next few days. Anyone who does not receive their race pack in the post can collect one on the day of the races at Mountain Ash Day Centre.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan Committee said: “We have already received hundreds of entries from all across the UK and even overseas, but there is still time to be a part of Nos Galan 2011.
“Anyone wishing to run in the Childrens’ Races, Elite Race or 5km Adults’ Race can still do so by registering online or in person on the day.
“Nos Galan has grown in popularity in recent years and our message to all those wishing to take part this year is get your applications in early to avoid any disappointment.”
The fun kicks off in Mountain Ash town centre at 4pm on Saturday, December 31, with the first of the children’s races. But the highlight of the night will be the arrival of the Nos Galan Mystery Runner, who will light the Nos Galan beacon at Rhos Square in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash.
Before doing this, the Mystery Runner will lay a wreath upon the grave of Guto Nyth Bran within the churchyard at St Gwynno’s Church, as well as taking part in a poignant memorial service.
As well as Children’s Races, there will also be an Elite Race in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash, followed by an adults race and a spectacular fireworkS display.
Previous Nos Galan Mystery Runners have included Linford Christie, John Hartson, James Hook, Nicole Cook, Jamie Roberts, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins.
The closing date for postal entries to take part in this year’s Nos Galan Road Races has now past. But people wishing to enter the races can still do by registering online at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
Registration will also take place in Mountain Ash town centre on New Year’s Eve, one hour prior to the races getting underway.
Organisers Rhondda Cynon Taf Council are hoping to attract runners from around the County Borough and even further afield.
Other attractions on the day will include stilt walkers, funfair rides, fire juggling and street entertainers.
Nos Galan is once again being supported this year by The Valleys Heart and Soul initiative, which aims to raise awareness of the region as a tourist destination, bringing communities closer together and helping to restore pride and passion into the area.
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011, visit the Nos Galan website to apply online or download an application form at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
You can also call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Events team on 01443 424123 or Email events@rctcbc.gov.uk|
Monday, 12 December, 2011
Nos Galan's A Big Mystery!
Preparations are well underway for the 2011 Nos Galan Road Races in Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve – but who will be the Mystery Runner?
Organisers Rhondda Cynon Taf Council remain tight-lipped but say the public will not be disappointed.
Thousands of people are expected to flock to the town on Saturday, December 31, for the annual event – now into its 53rd year.
The Nos Galan Road Races, organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, are run in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran, who is buried at St Gwynno’s Church, Llanwonno.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee said: “Nos Galan is a highlight in Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s events calendar each year and preparations for the 2011 event are well advanced.
“I am sure everyone who attends will also be delighted with the calibre of Mystery Runner this year.”
This year’s event will incorporate the first-ever Nos Galan Big Sing, where everyone on the night will be invited to join in the singing of the famous Welsh hymn Calon Lan.
Nos Galan was started in 1958 by former school teacher Bernard Baldwin MBE and during its heyday it featured live on BBC TV’s Grandstand sports programme, presented by Frank Bough.
In its early years ,Nos Galan consisted of a 100-yard Dash, the arrival of the famous Nos Galan Mystery Runner and a Midnight Race.
These days Nos Galan starts with the Childrens’ Races in Mountain Ash at 4pm, followed by an Elite Race for experienced runners and the Adults’ Race for runners of all abilities.
The highlight of the night will be the arrival of the Nos Galan Mystery Runner, who will light the Nos Galan beacon at Rhos Square in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash.
The event will end with a spectacular firework display.
Other attractions on the day will include stilt walkers, funfair rides, fire juggling and street entertainers.
Nos Galan is once again being supported this year by The Valleys Heart and Soul initiative, which aims to raise awareness of the region as a tourist destination, bringing communities closer together and helping to restore pride and passion into the area.
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011, visit the Nos Galan website to apply online at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
For further details on the event or the Nos Galan Big Sing call 01443 424123 or Email events@rctcbc.gov.uk|
Thursday, 1 December, 2011
Mystery Runners: Wall Of Fame
A Nos Galan Wall of Fame is set to be unveiled at the Brynfynnon Hotel, Llanwonno, on Friday, December 9 at noon.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has presented a series of framed prints of past Nos Galan Mystery Runners to the owners of the 17th Century hotel and civic dignitaries and guests will attend the special event.
The Brynfynnon Hotel will now boast a Nos Galan Wall of Fame, complete with a special commemorative plaque, which will be unveiled on the day.
Among those expected to attend the event is the Nos Galan founder Bernard Baldwin MBE, now aged 86. Also present will be members of the Nos Galan Committee.
Situated across the road from St Gwynno’s Church, Llanwonno – the last resting place of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran – the Brynfynnon Hotel is already a popular tourist attraction.
Thousands of people from around the world visit the Brynfynnon Hotel each year, both to sample the fantastic meals and refreshments on offer and also to follow the history of Nos Galan.
Traditionally on New Year’s Eve each year, it is in the bar of the Brynfynnon Hotel that the Nos Galan Mystery Runners makes their first public appearance, often seen behind the bar pulling the odd pint or two!
Hotel publicans Aaron and Natalie Lewis were keen that Nos Galan is recognised at their venue all year around, so Rhondda Cynon Taf Council set up the Nos Galan Wall of Fame.
Among the photographs featured in the Nos Galan Wall of Fame are Mystery Runner Martin Hyman, pictured outside a snow-covered Brynfynnon Hotel in 1962, John Whetton in 1970, Steve Jones in 1984, and James Hook and Jamie Roberts in 2009.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee said: “I am sure the Nos Galan Wall of Fame will be a big boost to the Brynfynnon Hotel as a tourist attraction, with many people visiting all year round. It will also be a great pleasure to welcome Bernard Baldwin to the event.
“It was his vision all those years ago that went on to make Nos Galan an event that is known around the world, attracting thousands of people to Mountain Ash each New Year’s Eve.”
Application forms to enter the 2011 Nos Galan Road Races are now available at www.nosgalan.co.uk|.
Nos Galan is once again being supported this year by The Valleys Heart and Soul initiative, which aims to raise awareness of the region as a tourist destination, bringing communities closer together and helping to restore pride and passion into the area.
For further details on Nos Galan call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Events team on 01443 424123 or Email events@rctcbc.gov.uk|
Monday, 28 November, 2011
Nos Galan Countdown
Thousands of people are expected to flock to Mountain Ash town centre on New Year’s Eve for the annual Nos Galan road races.
Now into its 53rd year, Nos Galan takes place in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran, who is buried at St Gwynno’s Church, Llanwonno.
Nos Galan attracts thousands of athletes each year – and even more spectators.
The world-famous Nos Galan is organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and this year will incorporate the first-ever Nos Galan Big Sing, where everyone on the night will be invited to join in the singing of the famous Welsh hymn Calon Lan, which is often heard at rugby grounds across Wales and beyond..
The fun kicks off in Mountain Ash town centre at 4pm on Saturday, December 31, with the first of the children’s races. But the highlight of the night will be the arrival of the Nos Galan Mystery Runner, who will light the Nos Galan beacon at Rhos Square in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash.
Before doing this, the Mystery Runner will lay a wreath upon the grave of Guto Nyth Bran within the churchyard at St Gwynno’s Church, as well as taking part in a poignant memorial service.
As well as Children’s Races, there will also be an Elite Race in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash, followed by an adults race and a spectacular fireworkS display.
Previous Nos Galan Mystery Runners have included Linford Christie, John Hartson, James Hook, Nicole Cook, Jamie Roberts, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins.
Organisers Rhondda Cynon Taf Council are hoping to attract runners from around the County Borough and even further afield.
Other attractions on the day will include stilt walkers, funfair rides, fire juggling and street entertainers.
Nos Galan is once again being supported this year by The Valleys Heart and Soul initiative, which aims to raise awareness of the region as a tourist destination, bringing communities closer together and helping to restore pride and passion into the area.
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011, visit the Nos Galan website at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
Monday, 7 November, 2011
Official Nos Galan Programme
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is busy producing the Official 2011 Nos Galan Programme, which will be distributed free-of-charge to thousands of people prior to the event.
The Nos Galan Road Races are held in Mountain Ash town centre every New Year’s Eve in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran.
Having taken place since 1958, Nos Galan attracts a worldwide audience, with the official Nos Galan website getting ‘hits’ from around the globe.
Adding to this, thousands of people take to the streets on New Year’s Eve each year to either take part in the races or enjoy the spectacle from the sidelines.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan Committee and Ward Member for Mountain Ash West, said: “A lot of work goes into producing a first-class Nos Galan publication to support the event each year.
“This year is going to be no exception as our Official 2011 Nos Galan Programme will contain loads of photographs from previous Nos Galan Road Races, along with all the vital information you will need for this year’s event – from the Event Timetable to the all-important race route.”
The Official 2011 Nos Galan Programme will also contain a complete history of the event, a Nos Galan Quiz, and The Life and Times of Guto Nyth Bran.
The lyrics to the Welsh hymn Calon Lan will also be included in order for the public to take part in the first-ever Nos Galan Big Sing.
The Official 2011 Nos Galan Programme will be distributed free-of-charge prior to the event and will also be available on the day.
The Nos Galan Road Races will include Childrens’ Races, the arrival of the Nos Galan Mystery Runner, Elite Race, Fun Race and a spectacular Firework Display.
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011 visit the Nos Galan website at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
Monday, 31 October, 2011
Nos Galan "Finest Race in World"
Nos Galan is one of the Top 500 races around the world – it’s official!
A new book, called The World’s Ultimate Running Races, features the finest 500 races in 101 countries.
And in among the London Marathon, New York City Marathon, Beijing Marathon, Canadian Death Race and Boston Marathon is the world-famous Nos Galan Road races in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Held in Mountain Ash town centre each New Year’s Eve in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran, Nos Galan attracts thousands of athletes each year – and even more spectators.
Nos Galan 2011 has been officially launched by organisers Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, with race application forms now available.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee and Ward Member for Mountain Ash West, said: “Nos Galan appeals to all ages and it is great to see the major event included in this fantastic new publication highlighting the best races around the world.
“Such is the worldwide reputation of the Nos Galan road races.”
Started in 1958, this year’s event will incorporate the first-ever Nos Galan Big Sing, with the Caegarw Primary School Choir leading runners and spectators in an open-air rendition of the famous Welsh hymn Calon Lan .
Written in 1910 by Daniel James, who lived in Caegarw, Mountain Ash, the school wants Calon Lan to become the official song of Nos Galan 2011.
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011 visit www.nosgalan.co.uk|
You can also call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Events team on 01443 490200 for details on the event and the Nos Galan Big Sing.
The World’s Ultimate Running Races is published by Collins and is available at all good book stockists, priced £20.
Thursday, 27 October, 2011
Nos Galan Poster Competition
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has launched its annual Nos Galan Poster Competition and is calling on all primary school children to get creative and design a poster for the world-famous road races.
The design should capture the spirit of Nos Galan and can be in any colour, or simply black and white.
Artwork should be no bigger than 12cm wide x 18cm high and can be created in any medium – pencils, felt pens, paints etc.
The top three entries will have their artwork reproduced in the official Nos Galan programme, with the first prize winner receiving £50 for their winning school.
The closing date for entries is Wednesday, November 2, 2011.
All entries should be sent to: The Events Team, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Pavilion C, Clydach Vale, CF40 2XX.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee and Ward Member for Mountain Ash West, said: “Nos Galan is a huge family event that attracts thousands of runners and spectators each year.
“With our Nos Galan Poster Competition, we want to capture the magic of the event, as well as recognise the talents of our budding young artists. I urge all our primary school pupils to get involved.”
The Nos Galan Road Races are held in Mountain Ash each New Year’s Eve in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran.
Application forms for this year’s races, from children to adults, are now available.
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011 download an application form at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
You can also call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Events team on 01443 490200.
Monday, 24 October, 2011
Join Nos Galan Big Sings!
Preparations are well underway for the 2011 Nos Galan Road Races through the streets of Mountain Ash.
Founded in 1958 by Bernard Baldwin MBE, the world-famous annual event, held each New Year’s Eve, is now organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
The races are held on December 31 in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran and attracts thousands of athletes each year – and even more spectators.
The streets of Mountain Ash town centre are lined with New Year revellers who greet the Nos Galan Mystery Runner and also cheer on the athletes in the children’s races, adult’s races and elite race.
But this year, for the first time ever, a Nos Galan Big Sing is being introduced into the event and all those who attend the races are being asked to take part.
Pupils at Caegarw Primary School in Mountain Ash will be leading the crowds in a rousing rendition of the popular Welsh hymn Calon Lan, which has this year been adopted as the official Nos Galan anthem.
Written in 1910 by Daniel James, who once lived in Caegarw, Mountain Ash, and composed by John Hughes, Calon Lan was first performed in public at Bethania Chapel, Mountain Ash.
The students want to keep the tradition alive and want everyone to join in the largest public performance of Calon Lan ever staged in Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve.
The words of the hymn will be published in the official Nos Galan programme.
Application forms for this year’s races, from children to adults, are now available.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee and Ward Member for Mountain Ash West, said: “It is great that these young students are keen to get everyone singing a traditional Welsh hymn that was written more than 100 years ago.
“Calon Lan means so much to the people of Wales but it means so much to the people of Mountain Ash as it was written by one of its residents.
“I hope thousands of people will join in the Nos Galan Big Sing, which will take place in Mountain Ash town centre during the night.”
Caegarw Primary School headteacher Huw Griffiths said: “I am so glad Calon Lan has been adopted as the Nos Galan anthem for the first time ever and hope as many people as possible will join with us on the night.”
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011, visit the Nos Galan website to download an application form at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
You can also call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Events team on 01443 490200 for details on the event and the Nos Galan Big Sing.
Nos Galan applications are also available at the Council's One4All centres and Council run leisure centres.
Monday, 17 October 2011
Under Starter's Orders!
Entries are already flooding in for this year’s Nos Galan road races, organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
Held in Mountain Ash each New Year’s Eve in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran, Nos Galan attracts thousands of athletes each year – and even more spectators.
And this year’s event promises to be a huge hit once again, judging by the public demand for entry forms.
The 2011 Nos Galan has been launched at Mountain Ash Library, with application forms now available for runners of all ages wishing to take part.
And in the first few days, entries have come flooding in from around Wales, and even some from as far afield as Stevenage and Brighton!
Athletes of all abilities can get a head start, get ontheir marks and get set for Nos Galan 2011, the highlight of which will be the arrival of the Mystery Runner who will light the Nos Galan beacon at Rhos Square in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash.
Before doing this, the Mystery Runner will lay a wreath upon the grave of Guto Nyth Bran within the churchyard at St Gwynno’s Church, Llanwonno, as well as taking part in memorial service.
While this is happening, the children’s races will already be underway down the mountainside in Mountain Ash, culminating in the elite race and the adult’s race and a spectacular fireworks display.
Previous Mystery Runners have included Linford Christie, John Hartson, James Hook, Nicole Cook, Jamie Roberts, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee and Ward Member for Mountain Ash West, said: “Nos Galan is always a major event for us and I am delighted to see the public is already gearing up for what I am sure will be yet another memorable night in Mountain Ash.
" Nos Galan has grown in popularity in recent years and our message to all those wishing to take part this year is get your applications in early to avoid any disappointment.”
Application forms to enter the 2011 Nos Galan Races are now available. The closing date for postal entries is Monday, 12 December, and after this date the registration price increases to £15 for Adults and £5 for Children.
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011, visit the Nos Galan website to apply online or download an application form at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
You can also call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Events team on 01443 424123 or Email events@rctcbc.gov.uk|
Applications are also available at the Council's One4All centres, sports centres and Libraries.
Wednesday, 12 October, 2011
Nos Galan 2011 Launch Party
Nos Galan 2011 has been officially launched by organisers Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, with students hitting the high notes, belting out a famous Welsh hymn
A new addition to this year’s event will be the first-ever ‘Nos Galan Big Sing.’
P upils at Caegarw Primary School in Mountain Ash are hoping to get the thousands of Nos Galan athletes and spectators signing Calon Lan on New Year’s Eve.
Written in 1910 by Daniel James - the Welsh Bard Gwyrosydd, who lived in Caegarw, Mountain Ash – Calon Lan was first performed in public by a congregation at the town’s Bethania Chapel.
The students want to keep the tradition alive and are hoping to lead the singing of Calon Lan at this year’s Nos Galan races in Mountain Ash town centre on December 31.
Held in Mountain Ash town centre each New Year’s Eve in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran, Nos Galan attracts thousands of athletes each year – and even more spectators.
Application forms for this year’s races, from children to adults, are now available.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee and Ward Member for Mountain Ash West, said: “Nos Galan appeals to all ages and it is great to see these young students playing a major part in what is a highlight in Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s events calendar each year.
“Nos Galan has grown in popularity in recent years and our message to all those wishing to take part this year is get your applications in early.”
This year’s Nos Galan event was officially launched at Mountain Ash Library, where the pupils of Caegarw Primary School gave a presentation on the life of composer Daniel James.
They also performed Calon Lan to an appreciative audience of guests and now hope to sing at other venues in the locality to get their message across.
The students also sang the hymn at the statue of Guto Nyth Bran, at Rhos Square, Oxford Street, Mountain Ash, drumming up support for New Year’s Eve.
Caegarw Primary School headteacher Huw Griffiths said: “Our main aim is to teach the hymn to all members of the community and hopefully everyone can join us in singing it as part of this year’s Nos Galan celebrations.”
To be a part of Nos Galan 2011 visit the Nos Galan website at www.nosgalan.co.uk|
You can also call Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Events team on 01443 490200 for details on the event and the Nos Galan Big Sing.
Monday, 10 October 2011
Get Set For Nos Galan
The race is already on for runners to register well in advance for this year’s Nos Galan road races.
Held in Mountain Ash each New Year’s Eve in memory of legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran, Nos Galan attracts thousands of athletes each year – and even more spectators.
This year’s world-famous Nos Galan, organised by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, has been launched at Mountain Ash Library, with application forms now available for runners of all ages wishing to take part.
Athletes of all abilities can get kick off their marks and get set for Nos Galan 2011, the highlight of which will be the arrival of the Mystery Runner who will light the Nos Galan beacon at Rhos Square in Oxford Street, Mountain Ash.
Before doing this, the Mystery Runner will lay a wreath upon the grave of Guto Nyth Bran within the churchyard at St Gwynno’s Church, Llanwonno, as well as taking part in a poignant memorial service.
While this is happening, the children’s races will already be underway down the mountainside in Mountain Ash, culminating in the adults race and a spectacular fireworks display.
Previous Mystery Runners have included Linford Christie, John Hartson, James Hook, Nicole Cook, Jamie Roberts, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan committee said: “Nos Galan is a highlight in Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s events calendar each year and preparations for the 2011 event are already well underway.
“Nos Galan has grown in popularity in recent years and our message to all those wishing to take part this year is get your applications in early to avoid any disappointment.”
Application forms to enter the 2011 Nos Galan Races are now available. There will be races along a 5km route for elite runners and also adults, boys and girls categories.
The closing date for postal entries is Monday, 12 December, and after this date the registration price increases to £15 for Adults and £5 for Children.
Organisers Rhondda Cynon Taf Council are hoping to attract runners from around the County Borough and even further afield.
Other attractions on the day will include stilt walkers, funfair rides, fire juggling and street entertainers.
Applications are also available at the Council's One4All centres, Leisure centres and Libraries.
Tuesday 4th, January 2011
Nos Galan 2010 success!
Football star John Hartson and rugby star Mark Taylor were the mystery runners at the 2010 Nos Galan Races in Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve.
Every year, at least one sporting personality joins the famous races and their identities are kept secret until the night of the event and this year, organisers were delighted to welcome the two sportsmen.
John Hartson is a former Welsh international footballer, best known for his time with West Ham and Celtic. Hartson featured prominently for Wales, earning 51 caps until his international retirement in 2006. He retired from professional football in January 2008.
In July 2009, it was revealed that he was facing treatment for testicular cancer and had undergone emergency neurosurgery on his brain. Following treatment, by December 2009, the cancer had been virtually eradicated from his body.
John set up the John Hartson Foundation to raise awareness of testicular cancer and to raise funds to support cancer organisations across the UK, and a donation will be made to the charity for his appearance at Nos Galan.
Mark Taylor made his debut for Pontypool in 1992 before joining Swansea and was the Welsh Player of the Year in 2000. In the 2003-2004 season, Taylor was a member of the Llanelli Scarlets team that won the newly-formatted Celtic League.
He made his Wales debut against South Africa in 1994 and went on to make 53 appearances for his country. Five years after his debut, South Africa provided another significant contribution to his Wales career as he scored the first ever try at the Millennium Stadium in the venue's opening game against the then reigning Rugby World Champions on June 26, 1999.
Taylor became the 114th person to captain Wales and led his country on four separate occasions and a two match stretch as captain against Samoa and USA in 2000 saw him celebrate with a try in each game.
Taylor was a British & Irish Lion in 2001 and scored two tries in five appearances for the Lions on their tour of Australia.
John and Mark laid a wreath at legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran’s grave in Llanwonno graveyard following a special service at Llanwonno Church. They then followed the route from Llanwonno to Mountain Ash town centre. They were supported on their torchlight run by young local athlete Sammy-Jo Morgan aged 15, a member of Aberdare Athletics Club.
Councillor Andrew Morgan of the Nos Galan committee, said: “We were delighted John and Mark were able to join us on the night.”
Nos Galan was supported this year by The Valleys Heart and Soul campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the region as a tourist destination and bring long-term economic benefit to the area.
The Nos Galan Races follow a 5km route around Mountain Ash, with a category for elite runners, a fun run and boys and girls categories.
Thursday 30, December
2010 Race Packs
Nos Galan's organisers apologise if you have not yet received your race pack in the post. The recent adverse weather has affected the postal service, delaying deliveries.
If you have still not received your race pack in the post, you can still enter the Races. Please come along to late registration at Mountain Ash Day Centre in Oxford Street from 2pm on December 31.
Park and Ride
A free park and ride service will operate again this year for people travelling to Mountain Ash for the Races on New Year’s Eve.
A shuttle bus will run every 10-15 minutes from 3.30pm until 9.30pm from Mountain Ash Comprehensive School, with drop off and return collection from the bus stop outside the Aberdare Hotel, near the town bridge.
Mountain Ash Comprehensive School is about one mile north of Mountain Ash in New Road on the A4059. Please follow the AA signs on the A4059 to the parking area. Please note that the parking area will be staffed by security staff and Nos Galan stewards.
Runners should please note that postal and online entry to join Nos Galan has now closed. You can still sign up on the night from 2pm at the Day Centre.
Wednesday 22, December
Race Packs and Snow Update
Not even the weather will stop the dedicated entrants, with the race still on track to go ahead, subject to the weather on the day and the Council and the Nos Galan committee taking steps to ensure the race route is clear.
However some entrants may not have received their official race packs due to the inclement weather and a delay in the postal system. Have no fear you can still take part and will need to report to the late entry office on the day pick up your pack.
Further Updates will be posted here if required so keep checking back.
Monday 13, 2010
Postal entry has now closed
Runners should please note that postal entry to join Nos Galan has now closed (Monday, December 13). You can still apply online or subject to availablity, sign up on the night.
November 25, 2010
More opportunities to register for Nos Galan
Runners planning on entering the 2010 Nos Galan Races can now pick up application forms across Rhondda Cynon Taf, or register online.
Application forms for the Races are now available from all Rhondda Cynon Taf libraries, leisure centres and Communities First offices as well as online at www.nosgalan.co.uk
So far, more than 250 people of all ages have registered to take part on December 31, 2010.
Ann Crimmings, Chair of the Nos Galan Committee, said: "Already there has been a flood of entries and we are hoping to have record numbers of entrants and spectators this year."
“Entry prices have been frozen at the same rate as last year, but runners will need to register by post before Monday, December 13 or register online until December 30, subject to availability."
October 14, 2010
Get set for Nos Galan 2010
Runners of all ages can get set for this year’s Nos Galan Races in Mountain Ash - with application forms for the event now available.
The Races, held annually on New Year’s Eve, honour legendary runner Guto Nyth Bran and follow a 5km route, with competitions for boys and girls, a fun run for adults and an elite race.
Organisers are hoping to attract 1,000 runners this year from across Rhondda Cynon Taf and further afield. The event will be marked with a dazzling fireworks display and entertainment for all ages in Mountain Ash town centre.
Each year a famous sports personality - whose identity is kept secret until the night - takes part in the races. Rugby internationals James Hook and Jamie Roberts were last year’s mystery runners.
Councillor Andrew Morgan of the Nos Galan committee said: “Preparations for the event are well underway and we hope runners of all ages will start applying now to take part in the event.
“We would like to thank our sponsors this year - Darran Las Communities First, RCT Homes, Amgen Cymru and the Fernhill and Glenboi Communities First partnership. Their support is greatly appreciated.”
There will also be further improvements made to The Valleys' flagship New Year's Eve event this year, following grant funding secured from the Heads of the Valleys Regeneration Partnership (WAG).
If you would like to take part on December 31, download an application form on this website or call Rhondda Cynon Taf Events team on 01443 490200. Application forms are also available at the Council's One4All centres and most sports centres.
September 14, 2010
Nos Galan plans are up and running
Plans for the Nos Galan Races 2010 are off the starting blocks, with work well underway on this year’s big event in Mountain Ash on December 31.
The Nos Galan Committee - the team planning the famous races - has already signed up two mystery runners for 2010, as well as securing sponsorship. This year’s four main sponsors are Darran Las Communities First, RCT Homes, Amgen Cymru and the Fernhill and Glenboi Communities First Partnership.
There will be further improvements made to the overall event this year, following grant funding secured from the Heads of the Valleys Regeneration Partnership (WAG).
More than 1,000 runners registered to take part in 2009, and this year development of the races will be targeted to both the Children’s Races and the Elite Race. The committee agreed that the number of entrants allowed in the main race will remain the same.
Councillor Andrew Morgan of the Nos Galan Committee said: “We set a three-year development plan for the races in 2006 and I think everyone would agree the event has increased in size dramatically in recent years, with more street entertainment and a bigger firework display - thanks to the support of our sponsors."
“The committee takes on board feedback every year and looks at what further improvements can be made. Though Nos Galan is considered by most people to be a one-night only event, there is a huge amount of work involved throughout the year.”
Runners who wish to take part this year can download an application form - click here, or call Rhondda Cynon Taf Events team on 01443 425700 for an application form.