We are now just hours away from finding out who will be the world-famous 2011 Nos Galan Mystery Runner.
Whoever it is, they will be following in the footsteps of many legendary and illustrious sporting stars, starting with Tom Richards back in 1958 and John Hartson and Mark Taylor in 2010.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, along with the Nos Galan Committee, organisers of the event, can now reveal that this year there will once again be TWO Nos Galan Mystery Runners on New Year’s Eve.
They will first attend a Memorial Service to legendary Welsh runner Guto Nyth Bran – the man who inspired Nos Galan – at St Gwynno’s Church at 4.45pm before laying a floral tribute upon his grave in the 17th Century churchyard, high on the hillside above Llanwonno.
The pair will then embark on the lonesome run down the hillside to a bustling Mountain Ash town centre, both carrying the Nos Galan torch before lighting the beacon in Oxford Street.
But who are the 2011 Nos Galan Mystery Runners?
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council can now reveal that both play the same sport and both proudly represent their country at the highest level.
Both Nos Galan Mystery Runners will not be daunted by the large and excited crowd that will welcome them into Mountain Ash on New Year’s Eve.
That is because both Nos Galan Mystery Runners are used to playing their sport in front of thousands of spectators and millions more television viewers around the world.
One of the 2011 Nos Galan Mystery Runners is famous for their speed and agility – just like Guto Nyth Bran himself!
Cllr Andrew Morgan, of the Nos Galan Committee, said: “We are delighted to once again have two great sports people 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 this year will be no exception.
“I am sure the thousands of people who will converge on the town on New Year’s Eve will give a warm Welsh welcome to two the two people who will go down in history as Nos Galan Mystery Runners 2011.”
There is still time to enter the Nos Galan Road Races. You can do so in person on the day at Mountain Ash Day Centre, Oxford Street, Mountain Ash, at 3.30pm.
For further details visit www.nosgalan.co.uk