The Ryde Harriers based on the Isle of Wight announces the 2009 Marathon, now being run in October! It is an old event with a great deal of history. Established in 1957, the marathon is the longest running organised marathon in the United Kingdom. It is an exciting event in the sport life of all those people interested and taking part as well as for the spectators. The marathon has its devoted runners,  every year they return to it and enjoy the Islands roads. One of the oldest athletics clubs in the UK being Ryde Harriers,  has been organizing club events and runs since 1886.

Photo source: Ryde Harriers Photo Album

On 4th of October, 2009 all trained runners are welcomed to take part, this is a not an event for runners who have no experience or who have not be trained to run this kind of distance. It all kicks off on the Sunday morning  with a 11.00 am  start on the south side of Ryde Boating Lake after registration in Ryde Rowing Club.

The UK Athletics rules the for a marathon dictate it has to be 26 miles 385 yards long. The route of the marathon consists of one anti clockwise circular route of the Island and includes Ryde, Binstead, Wootton, Newport, Arreton, Sandown, Brading and back to Ryde.

Photo source: Ryde Harriers Photo Album

On each mile point the runner will see indicators of the distance covered. During the competition the competitors get rather thirsty and thus break points and water stops are frequent along the route.

If you wish, you can ask for own drink supplies to be placed at various stages but there is a need to register this requirement beforehand.  Of course, some runners are very used to running these type of marathons and thus it becomes second nature, however the Islands route is covered in many hill climbs so is regarded as one of the toughest in the UK.. Though some people really do like and enjoy it, but for the new runners it might be another issue. So, you have to be prepared for some special conditions during your running, preparation preparation preperation as the trainers say.  All finalists are awarded a runners medal at the end of the competition.

Photo source: Ryde Harriers Photo Album

So, everybody is welcomed to take part in this stimulating Running Marathon Race. It is a really splendid spectacle to witness as the runners go past , make sure to clap and cheer them on.

If you are a driver, please be must be more attentive and careful while driving your car as there are people running are tired and can easily make a mistake.

Of course, there is a great desire to win the Marathon but have time to appreciate all that take part for whatever reason they are running. It gives a sense of satisfaction and completion, but I can tell that the process is also exciting and exhausting. So damn the torpedoes full speed ahead  and join in if you dare, open up your hidden capabilities and have fun.