The Fan Dance Series · The Original

THE FAN DANCE

Brecon Beacons, South Wales · 24km Route March · Summer & Winter Events

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HOMEEVENTSFAN DANCE SERIESTHE FAN DANCE

THE FAN DANCE — SAS SELECTION TEST

The Original SAS Selection Route · 24 Kilometres · Brecon Beacons

This is a 24km route march in the Brecon Beacons which is the infamous SAS Selection Test. The Fan Dance is now over 60 years old and still today forms the first major hurdle on Selection and an indicator as to whether a potential UKSF soldier has the physical and mental determination to complete it within the cut-off time set by the DS (Directing Staff).

The challenge begins as soon as the race does with an immediate ascent of Pen y Fan which is 2,907 feet (886m). The route then descends on the other side of the peak with a pathed route to the halfway point before turning around and reversing the route. The return leg provides an even tougher challenge with the evil ascent back up the Fan known as Jacob's Ladder.

Once you have completed you will receive a custom TSFE The Fan Dance medal and certificate. First place prizes are given for each category for both male and female participants and team entries.

Fan Dance Image
Distance24 KM
Elevation2,907 ft (886m)
LocationBrecon Beacons
NavigationMarshalled
EventsSummer & Winter
DifficultyExtreme
Weight Categories

COMPETE IN YOUR CATEGORY

Various weight categories available. Choose the category that suits your level of ambition.

OpenClean Fatigue
50+Masters Clean Fatigue
60+Grandmasters Clean Fatigue
WeightedLoadbearing
50+ WeightedMasters Loadbearing
60+ WeightedGrandmasters Loadbearing
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Forthcoming Events

UPCOMING DATES

Winter Fan Dance Series — 17th-18th January 2026 BRECON BEACONS
Sold Out
Summer Fan Dance Series — 20th-21st June 2026 BRECON BEACONS
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LOCATION & GETTING THERE

Start Point
Pont Ar Daf Carpark
Brecon, Powys LD3 8NL
Region
Brecon Beacons National Park
Mid/South Wales border
Nearest Station
Merthyr Tydfil
11 miles / 18 mins by road
By Car
A470 north from M4
toward Brecon

The Brecon Beacons National Park lies on the border between Mid Wales and South Wales. It's home to waterfalls, forests, market towns and the highest peak in southern Britain.

By bus: Take the T4 service between Cardiff and Newtown. For local bus info call Traveline Cymru on 0871 200 22 33.

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