Event Preview: Headstock 200 – Edition Two

Evening Update: Checkpoints, Reflection Miles and a Race Against the Clock

Night Wrap-Up: New Records, Reflection Miles and Final Pulls

Morning Update: Night Moves, Near Misses, and Grit in the Gears

Morning Scratch Report: A Solid First Showing

Mid Morning Update: All Riders Through the Checkpoint!

Lunchtime Roundup: More Than Just Miles

Late Afternoon Update: The End Is In Sight

Final Wrap-Up: Headstock 200 – Edition Two Complete

Shwmae a croeso! 

The Headstock 200 returns for its second edition this weekend, and this time, the weather is firmly on the riders’ side. Sunshine and blue skies are forecast for the weekend and beyond, setting the stage for a stunning weekend of off-road adventure.

Covering 200 kilometres of varied Welsh terrain, the route blends old drovers roads, bridleways, forestry tracks, gravel and cycleways that were once bustling railways used to transport coal from the mines. It’s a test of pacing, resilience, and self-sufficiency—with a healthy dose of type-two fun thrown in. Whether racing the clock or riding for the adventure and breathtaking scenery, all participants will need to keep sharp as the miles unfold.

Last year’s edition saw Gareth Hayes set the 'Fastest Known Time' in 14 hours and 53 minutes, while Cordelia Hughes topped the women’s field in 16 hours and 14 minutes. The weather back then was less forgiving—starting sunny and ending in a downpour. With clearer skies this year, those times may well come under pressure.

This year, 53 riders will take on the challenge. Among them are 44 solo men and 3 solo women. Nia Thomas was due to join the women’s field but has withdrawn due to injury. New for 2025 is the pairs category, with 3 teams lining up to test not just legs, but teamwork over 200km of wild terrain.

The event kicks off at 11am on Saturday, and Dotwatcher will be following the action every step of the way. Expect updates, snapshots from the trail, and rider stories from the front to the back of the pack.

It’s bikepacking, it’s racing, it’s the Headstock 200 - let’s ride.

The second edition of the Headstock 200 is officially underway as riders rolled out from Tiny Rebel under glorious sunshine and cloudless skies. Spirits were high at the start line with a mix of familiar faces, first-timers, and loyal All Mountain Adventures regulars ready to take on 200km of wild Welsh terrain.

![David Conde - Leading the charge at the front](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/6ya2eTljHOvey596AeER3t/f2e73241186106fcc96c67fa1fe3b3bc/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-03_at_12.00.25.jpeg)

Among the field, there’s some friendly rivalry brewing. Keep an eye on David Conde, last year’s Black Mountain Challenge winner, Daniel Powell, who pushed him all the way to the finish, and was closely followed by Wayne Davies, who completed that podium. All three return today with unfinished business and the legs to make things interesting. 

Another rider to watch is Chris Anderson, who earned himself a reputation in 2024 by attending every single All Mountain Adventures event—consistency that could pay off on this course.
We're also sure there'll be more riders mixing it at the sharp end. Brand ambassador Sam Davidson, who took the podium on the Great British Divide – Short Course, is one to watch. With his ultra-distance experience and calm, measured approach, he could be a real contender as the day unfolds.

The atmosphere at the start was buzzing, and some of the setups looked seriously fast and light—hinting that a few riders are eyeing a single push through the full 200km. It's certainly possible… but these are Welsh miles, and they tend to stretch further than you'd think.
With the sun beaming down, hydration and sun cream will be just as important as tyre pressure and pacing. We'll be keeping a close watch as the riders scatter into the hills and the adventure unfolds.

Stay tuned—this one’s just getting started.

And They’re Off: Headstock 200 Gets Rolling

As the sun continues to shine on South Wales, the Headstock 200 is well underway, and the field is starting to spread out across the wild landscape. Out of the 55 originally entered, 39 riders rolled out from Tiny Rebel this morning, and now the business end of the race is beginning to take shape.

At the sharp end, David Conde—originally from Portugal but a local on these trails—is setting a fierce pace. Averaging 10.5mph, he’s currently on track to challenge the fastest known time. Hot on his heels are Daniel Powell and Josh Cunningham, both riding strongly and keeping him within sight. All three are aiming for a single push through the night, and as they make their way past the Gwryne Fawr Reservoir and up to the highest point on the course, Y Das, it’s shaping up to be a battle of endurance and strategy.

![David Conde - Front of the pack](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/58YQMh2RoVkZiid5U3Njb8/fde43e93831c2719ecc90a6c0c0876a1/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-03_at_14.23.22.jpeg)

Further back, the middle of the pack is close-knit and lively, with plenty of leapfrogging along the trails. Chris Anderson is currently fronting that group, but with terrain, timing and tactics at play, expect the leaderboard to keep shifting as the day wears on.

![The Field Is Opening Up](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1IQ1aux7fLc61YalW8B3Av/c9e1d7fe2d621da4b73c2e398fb4c3ce/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-03_at_11.56.19.jpeg)

In 6th place overall and leading the women’s field, Karen Price is looking incredibly strong, showing both pace and poise as she heads deeper into the hills. Meanwhile, Liz Greaves, tackling her first ever bikepacking event, is quietly gaining ground—moving steadily and showing real promise as she creeps up the rankings.

![Karen Price - Leading the Female riders](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/5lbByf3OIXumLDnnBXH9e9/5d08ffdca763741c027da8a387d4af71/Karen_Price.jpeg)

With warm weather, big climbs and long hours ahead, it’s still anyone’s race. The sun is high now, but the real stories will start to unfold as it begins to set.

Stay tuned for this evening’s update as riders dig in for the night shift.

Afternoon Update: Climbing High and Finding Rhythm

It’s been a scorching day in South Wales, and the pace has been just as hot. As the sun starts to dip, we’ve been treated to an exciting game of cat and mouse between Michael Hayward-Brazier and Tudor Gillham, who’ve been leapfrogging each other all afternoon and into the evening. Michael’s Specialized Chisel full-suspension setup is eating up the technical terrain, while Tudor’s aggressive drop-bar MTB with triple aero bars is shining on the smoother, more efficient sections. With the easier miles still to come, this is shaping up to be a proper battle for fourth place—and right now, it’s anyone’s guess who’ll take it.

The first riders began arriving at the checkpoint just after the 6-hour mark, with David Conde clocking in first at 6 hours 32 minutes, followed by Josh Cunningham at 6 hours 55. What’s unfolding is a fascinating contrast to last year’s edition—while Gareth Hayes was battling hypothermia en route to a win in 14 hours and 53 minutes, this year’s front runners are managing heat and hydration, with temperatures reaching 19°C and many riders rationing their water between Abergavenny and the checkpoint.

![Lead Rider making his way to CP](//videos.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1Gm8DOFzaxNN8lxh0VOCu7/40553fcaa56ef6bc114ed20fa39627d9/IMG_6923.mov)

As it stands, the first ten riders are all on pace to finish under 14 hours 13 minutes, well ahead of last year’s benchmark—helped by dry trails, smart pacing, and clear skies.

![First 10 Could Finish under 14hrs](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/zmpBYJy25BFsgmeFU5Sva/ab26da7131d10539b1e030fb2d3d00be/Screenshot_2025-05-03_at_20.47.08.png)

In the middle of the field, a tight-knit group of six riders—Adrian Davies, William Scott Rees (both veterans of the Headstock 500), Raymond Hallam, Lucas Neidhardt, Paul Eaves, and David Cooper—appear to be working together, making steady progress through the heat. Their aim is to clear the checkpoint before the 10pm closure, allowing for a good rest before it reopens at 6am.

Unfortunately, we’ve had our first scratch of the event: Tim Donell. Tim was riding strongly earlier in the day, but the heat may have taken its toll. He reached the checkpoint and made the wise call to end his ride there. Well done, Tim—great riding and a solid effort in tough conditions.

Meanwhile, David Conde is pushing hard and now into the reflection miles—a flowing, gradually descending section of well-surfaced cycleway that offers both relief and time to take stock. With most of the tough terrain behind, only one final climb remains—around the back of Machen Mountain before the finish comes into view.

As of now, 16 riders are still yet to reach the checkpoint. With the clock ticking towards the 10pm cut-off, the big question remains—how many will make it through in time?

We’ll be back with a night-time update as the first finishers cross the line—stay tuned!

As those in the middle and back of the pack settle down for a well-earned rest, up front, the reflection miles have delivered a spectacular finale. The sunshine stayed with the riders well into the evening, setting the scene for some fast times—and a new record.

David Conde was first across the line, smashing the previous course record with a time of 11 hours and 44 minutes. That’s a full 2 hours and 29 minutes faster than Gareth Hayes’ 2024 benchmark of 14 hours and 13 minutes—a phenomenal effort and the new Fastest Known Time for the Headstock 200.

![Josh Cunningham](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1f1gGwiCWrh2lIt1npi1Gl/471bc4bf998393f38e70c6eee4876a7a/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_00.03.13.jpeg)

Roughly 45 minutes later, Josh Cunningham rolled in to claim second place. A two-time Transcontinental Race finisher and experienced all-rounder, Josh brought speed and consistency, but it was David’s local knowledge of these Welsh hills that gave him the edge.

Daniel Powell, a familiar face from our Black Mountain Challenge, rounded out the top three with a strong and composed ride, crossing the line in 13 hours and 5 minutes.

![Daniel Powell](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7cZZMRv9Am9CMtsfS8M2Uw/044c3922313e176be3deb4bb4cae52cf/IMG_6933.jpeg)

The much-watched battle between Michael Hayward-Brazier and Tudor Gillham looks to have tipped in Michael’s favour, as he now powers through the final few miles. He’s just one climb away from the finish — a climb that multiple riders have described as “endless.” But with fourth place in sight, and the hardest terrain well behind him, we’re sure Michael’s momentum will carry him through.

It’s been a thrilling day of racing with fast conditions, strong tactics, and standout performances throughout the field. We’ll bring you a full update in the morning as more riders complete their journeys.

Until then—Nos da from all of us here at Headstock 200.

Wow, what a night. The finish line crew were on hand through the early hours, welcoming every rider who chose to go all in and ride the full 200km in one continuous effort. And what a show they put on.

We saw some late-night drama unfold on the tracker as Karen Price and Carole Welch entered a quiet but tense battle for the top female spot. Karen, who looked so strong all day, took a few wrong turns in the dark — something the team spotted unfolding live on the tracking page. This opened the door for Carole to gain ground and close in fast on the final 3miles / 5km of the route.

In the end, Karen held on, rolling into the finish at 03:29am with an impressive time of 16 hours and 29 minutes—just 16 minutes off Cordelia Hughes’ course record from 2024. Carole followed just 8 minutes later, arriving in great spirits and rightly proud of her ride. Hats off to both riders for their incredible determination through the night.

__Scratch Update:__
Sadly, our All Mountain Adventures Brand Ambassador and returning rider Adam Robbins has scratched after reaching the checkpoint. A mechanical issue saw several spokes on his wheel give way — gutting for Adam, who had high hopes of a personal best after completing the route last year. Unlucky, Adam — but still a fantastic effort.

![Adam Robbins - Scratching](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2FxNSwvqw8e1XqcWf5BEt8/990e6c89797d727da0ebc1a128e0d70a/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_09.15.48.jpeg)

As we write this, Adrian Davies, William Scott-Rees, Paul Eaves, Rob Lamey and Richard James have made it to the finish—strong rides from a trio who kept each other moving through the second half of the course.

![More Finishers](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7mgN8nQMKoWseVaAYpVrXP/fcdc24d3c29359908578ba9fa73d085c/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_09.58.26.jpeg)

18 riders remain out on course, and one in particular has quietly impressed the whole team: Peter Davies, who we understand is riding his way back from a serious ankle and foot injury that kept him from lining up at the Atlas Mountain Race earlier this year. To see him out here pushing on is inspiring. Keep going, Peter — you're smashing it.

![Peter Davies](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/jQTA4Du7nuJBc5dnAIxqa/0174a07c1f75626975d73f9aeb6f65a6/IMG_6899.jpeg)

Stay tuned for more updates throughout the day as the final finishers make their way to the line. The legs may be tired, but the spirit is undented.

This morning we’re wishing a huge well done to Giselle and Colin, who have decided to call time on their Headstock 200 adventure. After a good night’s rest, they’ve opted for some gentle recovery miles along the canal towpath as they make their way back to Tiny Rebel HQ.

![Wild Camp Spot](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4N406FX53xgno6hqbTVOPS/435e054d10405cd82d00718cad6df097/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_10.03.05.jpeg)

This was their first ever bikepacking event, and their plan had always been to spread the route out over three days. While they’ve chosen not to continue, we’re seriously impressed with the effort, the attitude, and the experience they’ve thrown themselves into. That’s what Headstock is all about.

Well done both—we hope this is the start of many more adventures to come.

We’re delighted to report that every rider has now passed through the checkpoint, with Zanis (aka Trail-ceratops) the last to roll in earlier this morning. Big thanks to our checkpoint volunteers Karl and Elaine.

![The Checkpoint](//videos.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2IsUtRxZuUYUV1lFCOG44V/891ac840a259c312bd80e4e4dea95e51/IMG_6906.mov)

Meanwhile, __Liz Greaves__ continues to impress. After a night bivvying out — with a tent mishap that saw her forget the pole that holds it up (whoops) — she made it over the mighty Brecon Gap.

![Liz Greaves - Familiar Ground](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4FwIkAmRL19AojKK8WYjAQ/c507aae476c4b62c53df6128a27e1c22/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_10.13.17.jpeg)

Now, with Sarn Helen and Ystradfellte to navigate and finally the Cynon Trail, where the gradient finally eases in her favour.

From Penderyn, she can enjoy nearly 19 miles of gentle descent toward Abercynon, followed by a final little pull and a descent into the finish. Liz knows these trails well—and if there’s one thing she’s brilliant at, it’s gravity riding.

The sun’s still shining, the miles are ticking down, and spirits remain high. 

Keep going everyone — you’re on the home stretch now!

While the Headstock 200 naturally draws a fast and fierce front end, it’s worth remembering that this is, at its core, a bikepacking adventure—not just a race. With the route designed to be ridden over three days, covering roughly 45 miles per day, the event gives everyone a chance to soak in the scenery, take the occasional detour, and maybe even enjoy a chip supper or a charity shop find in Abergavenny (yes, really).

The first 80 miles may be the toughest, with chunky climbs and remote terrain, but beyond the checkpoint, the miles were deliberately crafted to be more forgiving—perfect for cruising, recovering, and reflecting.

That spirit of balance and adventure is reflected in our alternative prize categories. Last year, we had awards for Heaviest Bike and Best Photo. This year, we’re celebrating the Best Sunset or Sunrise, and the Most Random Item of Kit Carried.

![Sunset and Sunrise](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/24lPCBR5hq9PyfwgdfKiya/79e767fff5b696e1afbd86e5af82230d/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_09.59.17.jpeg)

![Sunset or Sunrise Bivvy Spot](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/23aGppUsnrqnxymGqr4uRI/ad179dfc1865a08affd5b88e0c8b15f2/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_10.26.52.jpeg)

Some entries so far?

Feet warmers
An epipen
And our current favourite: a device used to test the sugar content of alcohol.
Why? We’re not entirely sure. But that’s the charm.
Meanwhile, others were clearly in “tour mode”—browsing Abergavenny’s charity shops or choosing battered cod over energy gels. It's all part of the Headstock magic.

![Warmers](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4gJCNiGLyydpkNRvZcfPdC/9fbb05e81261c69b157c2364de532b6a/WhatsApp_Image_2025-05-04_at_09.57.12__1_.jpeg)

And finally, a big shout out to the unsung heroes. These events are about more than riders and volunteers—they’re about the families and friends who show up, support, and sacrifice too.

Steve Jackson’s family made a weekend of it, staying in Crickhowell to support him along the route.
Peter Davies’ wife waited at the checkpoint in the early hours to cheer him through.
And countless partners braved the small hours to pick riders up from the finish line with a warm hug and even warmer snacks.

These are the quiet moments that make this event unforgettable. It’s not just the fastest known times—it’s the friendships, the shared stories, and the unconditional support that define what All Mountain Adventures is all about.

We’re halfway through the day—and all in.

It’s nearly over! As the sun continues to shine and the dust settles across the final miles, most riders are now on track to finish between 5–7pm—a whole day ahead of the official cut-off. Out of the original 39 riders, just 7 remain out on course.

Everyone who’s crossed the finish line so far has done so in good spirits, no doubt lifted by the sun-kissed skies and the dry, fast-rolling terrain that’s defined this year’s edition.

But don’t let the sunshine fool you—the Headstock 200 is no easy ride. At 200km, it’s a deceptive beast. A true blend of Welsh grit: long climbs, rocky descents, mellow canal paths, and all the emotional highs and lows in between. Riders must respect the route—and earn its respect in return.

One of the afternoon’s most unexpected moments came as Daniel Nicholson leapfrogged Pete Davies with just 8 miles to go. Daniel clearly hit the afterburners to make the move, but Pete’s ride was no less impressive. Starting near the back, Pete worked his way steadily through the field—riding through the night, lifted by a 4am call with his wife as he crested the Brecon GAP. His finish was a standout moment of the event, reminding us all that these challenges go beyond physical exertion. They’re driven by purpose, meaning, and often the people waiting on the other end of the phone or at the finish line. 

![What a welcome](//videos.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4wyE6SCvnhu0sMHgccLxif/bf9d8fba8b6f7489500a7e416aa8b317/WhatsApp_Video_2025-05-04_at_14.55.50.mp4)

Next into the finish are expected to be Lucas Neidhardt, David Cooper, Steven Reid, and Anthony Marvin—a team that has seemingly ridden most of the course together, forging one of those classic Headstock bonds along the way.

Just behind, Liz Greaves and Rob Petrie have spent much of the day side-by-side. Their shared journey is likely to wrap up around 6–7pm, marking a remarkable effort for both. And bringing up the rear, we have our final rider, Zanis aka Trail-ceratops. Like Liz, this is his first-ever bikepacking event—and what a way to do it.

From the first rider home to the last one still pedalling, this event has been a celebration of community, resilience, and joy on two wheels. Every finisher has done themselves, their families, and us proud.

We’re nearly there. Keep going, everyone—the end is within reach.

The Headstock 200 is an exhilarating journey through South Wales’ post-industrial heartland. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine to create an unforgettable endurance cycling experience.

Headstock 200 2025 Tracking and Commentary

The Headstock 200 is an exhilarating journey through South Wales’ post-industrial heartland. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine to create an unforgettable endurance cycling experience.

Covering approximately 200km of diverse terrain, this off-road adventure takes riders through wild landscapes, forest roads, drovers roads, and some challenging climbs that demand both physical and mental strength. It’s not just a test of fitness; it’s a test of character.

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