Entries to the Purbeck Marathon 2016 and the shorter Purbeck 16 are now being accepted. The race date is Sunday 18 September with both races starting on the downs overlooking Swanage Pier and finishing on Sandpit Field in Swanage.
Billed as ‘More than Just a Marathon,’ runners completing the classic marathon distance of 26 miles and 385 yards will find they still have a short distance to run including a final hill up to Sandpit Field in Swanage. It is closer to 27 miles but the organisers say it is well worth the extra effort to finish on the grass overlooking beautiful Swanage beach.
The route is set in the stunning scenery of the beautiful seaside resort of Swanage, the Jurassic Coast, Durlston Country Park and the Purbeck hills. Finishers can also relax their tired legs in the sea afterwards. Runners cross the MOD tank firing range and run through the deserted village of Tyneham. They cross the historic Swanage Railway on a foot crossing, skirt the iconic ruins of Corfe Castle and finish alongside the beach.
And when participants finish this ‘More than Just a Marathon’ they receive a goodie bag that includes a T-shirt as well as locally-made Purbeck Ice Cream and a bottle of Purbeck Cider.
One of the objectives of The Purbeck Marathon is to involve the community, working with local groups and giving increasing sums to charitable causes. Race Director, Martin Payne, said, “The Purbeck Marathon and The Purbeck 16 are not just about tremendous runs in stunning scenery but are also about supporting the community. In 2015, we invested heavily in the race infrastructure but we were also able to maintain the same level of donations to local good causes.” Last year the marathon donated £6,000 to local community causes.
The Purbeck Marathon and the Purbeck 16 are part of the Purbeck Running Festival and the Purbeck Outdoor Weekend. The events taking place over the weekend highlight the beauty of Purbeck, boost the local economy and help local community good causes. The races cannot take place without the support of partners and volunteers on the day.
