Nearing two years ago, I was made aware of the World Bog Snorkelling Championships (and popped out a quick post to my two-strong readership).  Life has barely been recognisable since.

Back last year, on a heady day in late August (26/08/17, around 16:04:07), in the depths of mid-Wales, under the hot mid-afternoon sun (yes, sun and heat in Wales), I became the 2017 Female World Champion of Mountain Bike Bog Snorkelling.

Below is footage of my world-leading performance. (And might answer a few questions for the reader.)

It’s not as easy as I make it look.

And less than 24 hours later, having barely recovered from the previous day’s exertions, I competed, as an orangutan, in the World Bog Snorkelling Championships.  I was aiming to raise awareness of the plight of the poster people of tropical peatlands.

Despite my (best?) efforts, I wasn’t the fastest female/primate in the bog, but I did come second in the Fancy Dress competition (more time having been spent on my costume than any form of snorkel training); the judges enjoyed my “tropical bird” costume….

My winning ORANGUTAN costume, in all of it’s glory pre-bog.

I am currently in training (starting from soon) for this year’s competition, and more carefully considering my choice of attire.  If you are free in late August, I would strongly recommend you get involved.  This year also sees the return of the biennial World Alternative Games.  There is a competition for everyone, with options ranging from pooh sticks, to gravy wrestling, and finger jousting.  I challenge you to find something you too can become a World Champion in.

There are few weekends in my rich life that have been as silly, as laughter-filled, boggy and friendly as this one I had the privilege to spend with the fantastic community of Llanwrtyd Wells.

See you there!