2 September 2008
Four women will travel all the way from New York to compete in their seventh Beachy Head Marathon alongside more than 1,700 others when the challenging event returns to the picturesque South Downs this October.
All 1,750 places have now been filled for the cross-country challenge that’s been voted one of the top ten marathon courses by readers of Runners World. Competitors from across the globe have signed up to compete in the gruelling 26-mile course with one runner coming from as far afield as Nigeria, while others are set to make the journey across the Channel from Europe and the Channel Islands.
Eastbourne Borough Council Spokesperson for Tourism, Cllr Steve Wallis said “It is fantastic news that already the seventh Beachy Head Marathon is full with competitors all eager to take on the demanding course across the South Downs. It is a real success story to have the event voted a favourite with UK runners and even more exciting that it attracts such a mixed variety of competitors, with all ages getting involved.”
Runners, joggers and walkers are all taking part in the route, which includes 300 steps and 14 stiles and the age range of competitors spans an impressive 64 years, with the youngest walker aged 15 and the oldest jogger an admirable 79 years.
Plus there will also be plenty more youngsters taking part in the Junior Challenge. Following a successful first year in 2007, the junior course is taking place again this year and invites runners aged 8 to 16 to follow a shortened version of the popular Beachy Head Marathon with places still available for the two and three kilometre junior races.
The Beachy Head Marathon takes place on Saturday 25 October 2008, and is organised by Eastbourne Borough Council and sponsored by Rix and Kay Solicitors and Eastbourne Hospitality Association (EHA).
Bruce Hayter, Managing partner from Rix & Kay is looking forward to the marathon: “We are very proud to be sponsoring the marathon for the third year and it is great to be involved in an event that raises vital funds for the runners’ nominated charities.”
The Mayor will officially start the 2008 Beachy Head Marathon at 9am sharp outside St. Bede’s School and spectators can come along to the start line to cheer on participants and take in spectacular views of the South Downs.
For more information contact the Events Office on 01323 415442, telephone the Tourist Information Centre on 0871 663 0031 or visit the Beachy Head Marathon or Visit Eastbourne website.
