PORTSMOUTH
IAN BURNETT PHOTOGRAPHY
With such a spectacular setting for an off -road marathon, the numbers keep rising for this annual ‘let’s run a marathon just before Christmas Day’ event. Th ere are excellent, indoor baggage facilities at the Pyramids Centre, meaning getting to the loos is easy, as is meeting friends and staying warm until the gun goes off just aft er sunrise. Th e start, by South Parade Pier, was a raucous aff air, with everyone cheering along the prom in shared madness at what was in store. And what was this? A flat course that follows the coastline? Yes – but don’t underestimate how tough the terrain is. Luckily, the aid stations along the way give you plenty of chances to stop, refuel, rehydrate and chat. Further along the route there’s mulled wine or beer to be sipped, as well as water, but at this time of year everyone’s enjoying every mile. Th ere’s an ultra available on alternate years, or a two-team relay for the marathon, which ups the ante and community feel. It can be wet, muddy and rocky underfoot, with miles of shingle, trail, puddles and grass, but the spell-binding views across Langstone Harbour are so good for the soul. Th is was a relaxed, friendly, beautiful winter trail race, with plenty of changes in terrain. You can expect to be thoroughly looked aft er – no, spoilt – at the food stations, too.