This in from the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, in their own words, Ed
This year’s Isle of Wight Marathon will see a shake up in tradition as the racecourse is updated to include the quieter undulating rural roads of the West Wight and a partnership with Island based cancer charity the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.
One of the oldest marathons in the UK, the Isle of Wight marathon has been running since 1957 and until now has had the notorious reputation as one of the UK’s hardest marathon courses, due to the altitude climbs throughout the run.
Route of new course
However the new course, although still challenging for those who like to push their boundaries, features quieter roads and gentler hills that are much more manageable for all levels of marathon runners.
Starting in West Cowes the new marathon course will meander around the back roads of Porchfield and Shalfleet before following the scenic shore of the River Yar to Freshwater, running through Thorley and connecting back up in Shalfleet for the homeward stretch.
A positive step forward
Ryde Harriers Club runner Stephen Lee explains,
“The new route and association with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is a positive step forward for the Isle of Wight marathon.
“Centering the new Race HQ in West Cowes will ensure the marathon remains accessible to mainland runners, taking competitors away from the crowded roads of the historic route that used to feature the major towns of Ryde, Newport, Shanklin, and Sandown and into the less congested scenic roads of the West Wight.”
Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust official charity
Also coming onboard for the first time for the 57th edition of the race is the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, who will feature as the official charity. Launched in 2003 the aim of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is to give young people in recovery from cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through sailing.
Celebrating their tenth year anniversary, the Trust has grown beyond every expectation into a national charity. Working with every young person’s primary cancer care unit in the UK, taking young people aged between 8-24 who are recovering from cancer and other serious illnesses on four-day sailing trips.
Find out more
If you would like to enter the Isle of Wight Marathon on the 6th October 2013 please visit – www.rydeharriers.co.uk
If you would like to find out more about the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust please visit – www.ellenmacarthurtrust.org
