Blog. Paul from THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay takes on The Montane Dragon's Back Race

Paul Trifanov, Head Kitchen Porter at THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay takes on The Montane Dragon's Back Race. Over 6 days from Monday 4th (today) until Saturday 9th September, Paul and his trainer Shaun will attempt to complete the challenge in Wales to raise funds for Hospitality Action and Action Against Hunger. We caught up with Paul to hear what the challenge means to him.  

Why did you decide to fundraise for Hospitality Action?

This is a cause that everyone at THE PIGs is totally passionate about, the industry is brought to life by the people that work within it, and Hospitality Action are there for them, helping them through the toughest of times. I’ve worked in hospitality for nearly eight years now and it’s a great way to support people working in my industry who might find themselves in difficult circumstances, whilst also doing something I love! Last year I ran in the Hospitality Action Challenge, it definitely inspired my competitive spirit, teams across THE PIGs raised over £53k, and it was amazing to be a part of that.

Tell us a little about the challenge.

I first heard about the challenge from our head chef here, Adam. Robin Hutson’s trainer, Shaun, told him about it and Robin knew I enjoyed running, so got in touch with Adam. Initially, I thought it was a race along the coastline, but after I found out it was across mountains I thought ‘Now, this is what I’m looking for.’ I’m very excited, I like challenges, and this one will be extreme but at least Shaun and I will be running together!

The challenge takes place over 6 days, from Monday 4^th – Saturday 9^th September, Shaun and I will attempt to run 380 kilometres and climb 17,400 metres - more than twice the height of Everest - from Conwy Castle to Cardiff Castle in Wales. The course follows summit checkpoints along the mountainous spine of Wales, covering uniquely wild, trackless, and remote terrain – an adventure of a lifetime or complete madness is something I’m still debating! It is certainly not for the faint hearted…in 2022 only 38% of racers completed it, and only 24% managed it in 2021!

Have you ever done anything like this before?

I had been a runner before college, but not competitively. When I moved to the UK and started working, I was looking for a way to quit smoking and be healthier, so I started running again in 2016 when I worked at THE PIG-on the beach but was nowhere near ready to take on a challenge like this! Then during lockdown, I started running more and have done so consistently since. Last year I set myself the challenge of completing 700 miles in one month and I am pleased to say I completed it! Now, working at THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay the stunning Cornish coastline is my training ground, under the supportive coaching of Shaun (a seasoned personal trainer and ultra marathon runner) I finally feel ready to take on a challenge like The Dragons Back Race!

How can people show their support?

The BIG PIG Online Charity Auction

With money can’t buy auction prizes – and something for everyone. Currently live until Friday 8th September. Check out the prizes here.

£1 donation on ‘Paul’s dish’ on our 25 mile menu

Our Head Chefs have worked with Paul to create a dish that he simply couldn’t resist – inspired by his home country – that will be on all 25 mile menus from Friday 1st September – Sunday 10th September. This dish will add a £1 donation to the fundraising efforts.

DONATE whatever you can

Finally, you can donate TODAY, as much or as little as you can in support of these two heroes, and all in aid of these two charities that mean so much to us. Thank you so much, your support means the world to Paul, Shaun and everyone at The Pig. Click here to donate.