August 31st, 2011.
Organisers of Runner’s World favourite, the Beachy Head Marathon, are appealing for volunteers to come forward and help at this year’s event with the cross-country challenge just seven weeks away.
On Saturday 22 October, more than 1,700 runners, joggers and walkers will set off on the challenging route that takes in part of the new South Downs National Park meandering through the villages of Jevington, Alfriston, Litlington, Friston Forest, the Cuckmere Valley, Seven Sisters, Birling Gap and Beachy Head.
Covering a 26-mile course that includes 300 steps and 14 gates, a large team of volunteer stewards and marshals are needed to man the checkpoints and spur the entrants on, as well as hand out medals and refreshments as the entrants cross the finishing line; in the sporting event that raises thousands of pounds for local charities each year.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism and Leisure, Cllr Neil Stanley said “Every year our hardy team of volunteers do a fantastic job at providing support, both for our events team and more importantly, for the 1,750 entrants who take on the challenge. Year on year the Beachy Head Marathon is listed amongst the country’s favourite marathons and over the past 30 years, it has built up a brilliant reputation with entrants coming from all over the world to take part. Whether you can spare a couple of hours or a whole day, we’d be really grateful to anyone who is able to give up some of their time and help support the 31st year of the Beachy Head Marathon.”
The Worshipful the Mayor of Eastbourne, Cllr Carolyn Heaps will start the 26-mile course at 9am sharp with the event starting and finishing at St. Bede’s School at the foot of the South Downs.
Visitors and supporting family and friends are encouraged to come along to the start line and give the entrants a giant cheer as they set off with several points on the route offering a great chance to view the event, including a live band playing at Litlington.
Brand new timing chips are being introduced this year for entrants to keep track of their own finishing times and the Beachy Head Marathon will see the fastest runners back to the finishing line around midday.
For more information on this year’s Beachy Head Marathon, which is organised by Eastbourne Borough Council alongside Eastbourne Hospitality Association (EHA), and to enquire about volunteering call the Events team on 01323 415442 or email events@eastbourne.gov.uk. To find out more about the event go to the official website.
