A MARATHON BY THE SEA
RUNNING A MARATHON DURING THE COLD DECEMBER CHILL IS NOT EVERYONE’S IDEA OF FUN, BUT TINA CHANTREY WAS UP FOR THE CHALLENGE WHEN SHE TACKLED THE PORTSMOUTH COASTAL MARATHON
TINA CHANTREY
PORTSMOUTH COASTAL MARATHON
STUART MARCH
PORTSMOUTH COASTAL MARATHON
With over 2,000 runners in the Portsmouth Coastal Marathon event weekend, this race has blossomed over the last seven years, since it was launched. Originally just a marathon, winding its way from Southsea seafront, along a beautiful trail path to Hayling Island, via Farlington Marshes, you can now also run the Festive Half, as well as a 50K ultra.
Despite the swell in participants, this race is truly special as it feels low-key. Not only can you run for hours away from traffic along a spectacular coastline, this marathon ticks many boxes for runners looking for a winter off-road experience along trail – but without any climbs to zap your legs. Saying that, with a healthy dose of rain the week before the race, there were some muddy parts to ensure everyone got dirty daps. As far as a happy and festive atmosphere, reaching each aid station (and there are more than enough) was an uplifting experience! Marshals and volunteers vied to meet your every need, from hydration to nutrition, to keeping a smile on your face.