Julia Mathias

I first got into running during my time in the Royal Air Force, where I worked as an air traffic controller. What started as a way to keep fit turned into decades of road running and marathons. Eventually I discovered fell running – and I’ve never looked back. The hills give me a buzz like nothing else, and I especially love the physicality and problem solving of the endurance side of it.

I’m part of the Mynydd Du club and live in Abergavenny, right on the doorstep of the Black Mountains – a super adventure playground. I’m married to Eirug, who’s from West Wales, and we’ve got two teenagers, Ceri and Rhys, who keep life busy and fun.

I’ve previously been Chair and interim Secretary for Mynydd Du and now I’m keen to bring those experiences, along with my Non‑Executive Director skills, into the role of Chair of the Welsh Fell Runners Association. I’m passionate about community, making fell running welcoming to more people, and sharing the thrill of the sport and the adventure it brings as widely as possible.