This race is a must do for any charity marathon runner, it has everything, incredible views of the Lakeland, amazingly supportive local people and is a real challenge for even the most seasoned runner. When you get started you will really have to try and catch your breath as the immaculate view really will take it from you. Which at the start of the marathon is actually not very helpful! Once you get into your stride you will really start to enjoy the feeling of the fresh air and tranquillity that this part of the UK brings to you. When you hit mile 16 you get an absolute shock as you won't believe that you could see any landscapes any more incredible than you already have but its breath loss time again! At the end of the race you must keep something in the tank as the last 6 miles are no easier than the first 20 and if you have given too much up you are in for a rocky time. Finishing the race you are greeted by an incredible group of people all up beat and happy, so make sure you finish well for them. Charity runners definitely get one of the best receptions.
Being a marathon and a very hilly one you should be able to drum up sponsorship quite easily. Anything from £1,200 upwards. Keep mentioning the hills! Speak in depth to your chosen charity about fundraising if you want to be one of the top fundraisers. Check out the run for charity fundraising A to Z for some great ideas to help you reach your target.
The support on the day is incredible although the number of supporters can not rival the big city runs, the local people are some of the nicest you will ever meet. Great charity support for the local charities but not so many of the larger charities present.
You need to allow yourself a great deal of time to take this race on, allow at least an extra 4 weeks on top of any normal marathon training. Definitely check out the run for charity marathon training plan but you should also ensure you are doing plenty of hill training.
Easy to enter and good information about the race is provided based on the number of participants. With a little more sponsorship this race could really be one of the best in the UK. Only problem you might find is the parking on race day which can be a little difficult.
3½ out of 5 stars
To choose a charity to support in this event click here or if you already have a charity in mind click here
