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We have been overwhelmed by the number of positive emails and messages from runners enthusing about their experiences at last Sunday's marathon. A lot of effort and time by many people goes into making the marathon the successful event it's become - thank you for taking the time to let us have your comments, we really do appreciate each and every one.
Brathay Windermere Marathon race report
Sunday 16th May dawned clear and cool with some sunshine – perfect conditions for running what has become known as “The Beautiful Marathon”. Against a backdrop of the Lakeland Fells on one side, and stunning views down Windermere on the other, 859 runners gathered on the lawn at Brathay Hall to be waved off by families and friends to the uplifting sound of Boom Dang – our local youth drumming group. Stefan (Brathay’s gamekeeper) got the marathon started with a very loud bang courtesy of his shotgun.
The runners, aged between 18 and 74, then began their journey around England’s largest lake on what is one of the most distinctive marathon courses in Europe. A leader quickly emerged, James Buis of Heaton Harriers, being chased by Niku Millot (2nd in 2009), and our winner from 2007, Julian Mawson. James was 7 minutes ahead at Newby Bridge with Pete Bland, our commentator in the lead car, wondering whether he’d be able to sustain the pace during the second half. James continued to run an outstanding race and crossed the line setting a new course record of 2:33:19. The women’s race was won by Robyn Oldham of Knavesmire Harriers in an impressive 3:11:44.
Other noteworthy achievements include Elisabeth Barber from St Alban Striders, who won the FV60 category in an excellent 3.50. All the way from Japan, Setsuo Noda came in first MV65 in an incredible 3.34 whilst Adrian Harris from Radcliffe AC was 9th overall and first MV55 in 2.59.
Thank you to the many club runners who ran the event this year. Abbey Runners turned out the biggest team with 9 runners closely followed by the 100 Marathon Club who had 8 runners.
Brathay 10 in 10
There were emotional scenes as the runners crossed the line in what must be the most picturesque of all marathon finishes. The loudest cheers of congratulations and respect were however reserved for the 11 runners who completed the fourth Brathay 10 in 10. Adam Holland of Tavistock AC set a new world record running the 10 marathons in an average time of 3.02. Their experiences over the 10 days can still be seen on CumbriaLive TV
This year we were also privileged to witness to the first ever marriage proposal at the Brathay marathon finish line! We won't divulge his identity but he was one of the first to cross the line and from his girlfriend's reaction we believe she was as surprised as we were.
Support around the course from spectators and the local community was fantastic with cheering crowds gathering in Hawkshead, Newby Bridge, Bowness and Waterhead. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community and residents around the marathon course for their support and patience in allowing this event to take place.
The loudest cheers of congratulations and respect were however reserved for the 11 runners who completed the fourth Brathay 10 in 10. It was an amazing experience to witness the highs and lows of these committed endurance athletes as they ran the Beautiful Marathon course for 10 days consecutively, while raising significant funds to support Brathay’s work with vulnerable children and young people. These 11 athletes (along with Phil Love who unfortunately had to retire due to injury after running 5 marathons – an impressive achievement in itself) showed incredible dedication and resolve as they each managed injuries and the daily routine of running and recovery.
The support that they gave each other was truly inspirational and they left Brathay having formed some lifelong friendships. The success of the 10 in 10 was only made possible by the professional support provided by The BodyRehab, Team Nutrition and ASICS UK. While all of the running activity was taking place families, friends and visitors to Brathay enjoyed themselves with activities, entertainment and refreshments provided as part of the Brathay Hall Open Day, which helped raise thousands of pounds for our work with young people - thank you.
Plans for next year’s Brathay Windermere Marathon are already underway. It is likely that the event will take place on Sunday 15th May 2011. We also have runners already coming forwards to be considered for next year’s Brathay 10 in 10 …………are you inspired?