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Competitors in the Sure Guernsey Marathon gave it a ringing endorsement yesterday as the event continues to grow.
Alongside the individual and relay races, that showcase some of the best views the island has to offer, organisers this year added a mile aimed at giving younger runners a taste of the action.
Rick Weston led the men’s field home in 2:35:50 after last year’s champion Dessie Burke dropped out at Vazon, while Rosie Williams battled through a tough second half of the race to win the women’s event in 3:25.23.
Pictured: Rosie Williams reaches the half way point at Vazon.
“I’m just really pleased with the support, as always Guernsey's shown that community spirit, which is what we want,’ said Race Director Michael Quittenden.
“The French runners and the guys that have come over, the feedback [they've given] about the island’s been brilliant.”
There were 140 registered for the solo race and 85 relay teams.
This year witnessed some technical innovations with a livestream from the back of the lead car.
Mr Quittenden was delighted with how the support mile went.
The 70 places sold out, leaving them scrambling around to find more bibs.
“We've already had some of those little guys coming up to say now they're going to run a full marathon. It's what we're trying to do, encourage the youth in the sport, so it's working really well for us," he said.
The mile was won by Emil Friedrich.
Among those also taking part in the mile was a team of children born premature or running for a friend helped by the Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation.
“It was so lovely to see these children and their families taking part and enjoying this community event for the PPBF,” says Jo Priaulx, Founder of the Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation.
Pictured: Jake Hardill.
Ms Priaulx continued: “They wanted to help raise funds and awareness for families going through the same difficult start to life as they once did. Thank you to all who ran for us, they were superstars. I’d like to thank the organisers for putting together a very well organised event and choosing the PPBF as one of their charity partners.”
Main image: Sure Guernsey Marathon startline by @JudgeDrone, Facebook.com/JudgeDrone
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