The stunning Lake District coast is the venue for a new multi-terrain running festival to be staged in May.
“Run the Edge” will feature two main events over routes which take in the breath-taking scenery of the Duddon Estuary and Lakeland fells. There’ll also be a family fun run and other activities.
The RSPB reserve at Hodbarrow, which is part of the Run the Edge route
The Run the Edge festival includes:
• An 11.4km (seven mile) race for entrants aged 16+
• A 5km (three mile) race for anyone over 12
• A 1km (0.6 mile) family friendly fun run
The festival celebrates the England Coast Path – new stretches of which have recently opened up on the Lake District coast. Both main races will follow parts of the coastal path.
It’s organised by Millom Striders Running Club on behalf of Copeland Borough Council and takes place on Sunday, May 21.
“It will spotlight our amazing coastline as a unique destination for anyone who loves the outdoors,” says Mike Starkie, Copeland’s Elected Mayor.
“This coast is a hidden gem and I’m delighted we’ve attracted funding for events like this – it benefits locals but also showcases the area to the rest of the UK and beyond. It supports jobs and businesses and promotes healthy activity – I hope people come from far and wide to take part.”
Andrew Rigg, Chairman of the Millom Striders, said: “Both events will take in scenic views of the Duddon Estuary (an SSSI site) and of the Lake District’s southern fells towards Black Combe, White Combe, Coniston Old Man and Scafell Pike. Both events will be chip-timed and will, in the main, follow the Cumbria Coastal path.”
Both race routes will be signposted and include km markers. A safe storage area will be available along with various refreshments, and there will be a water station on the longer route.
Pre-booked entry to each of the two main events costs £16, or £14 for affiliated athletes. Entry on the day is £16 for everyone. Competitors will receive a T-shirt, medal, neck warmer and eco-friendly water bottle on completion. Entry to the fun run costs £2 and participants will receive a goodie bag. Entries to the fun run will only be taken on the day.
To sign up for Run The Edge visit https://www.runbritain.com/entries/EnterRace.aspx
