Running group in Kent tackles Relay Marathon

A team of 20 from Sarah’s Runners running group in Kent recently took part in the South Downs Relay Marathon and had a day to remember!

They were split into five teams of four, each tackling one leg of the hilly off-road marathon. The legs varied between six and eight miles in distance but all included many eye watering hills – the total elevation for the full marathon was 5,500 ft.

The event, organised by 209 events, started at Slindon College, near Arundel and finished in the Queen Elizabeth Country Park in Petersfield. 

After the race, one of the team had an update from her 'Runkeeper' app to congratulate her on her 'biggest ever elevation in a run' – not surprising!

Group leader Sarah Russell said: “We chose the event as a relay as it was inclusive for everyone but still represented a challenge. We also wanted something to do as a team, but without pressure of too much competition and we wanted views and scenery! Many of the team had never done anything like this before and for some it was their first taste of trail running.

“It was a stunning, sunny day which added to the atmosphere and camaraderie. The focus (and the pre-event goal) was very much on enjoyment, fun and participation and the support for each other was audible at each checkpoint and the finish. The views from the top of the South Downs were breathtaking and the hills were eye watering!

“All the other runners in the race, especially those doing the full marathon, were amazingly supportive and encouraging, especially on the hills and the sense of camaraderie (rather than competition) was hugely evident and made for a wonderful experience for everyone.”

Relay style events such as this are an ideal way to give your running group a meaningful challenge, in a relaxed and inclusive environment, so why not find an event or running group near you and give it a go!