Marathon Returns to Beachy Head With New Ultra Challenge
12th October 2022
Marathon runners from across the UK will be arriving at Beachy Head this 22 and 23 October, with many taking on their biggest challenge yet.
With more than 3,300 runners expected across the weekend, the Ultra Marathon will see athletes take on a new 52km course, which includes all of the famous Seven Sisters cliffs and two ascents of Beachy Head - the UK’s highest chalk sea cliff.
The Beachy Head Marathon is one of the biggest off-road marathons in the UK, and the standard 26.2 mile marathon route takes in the picturesque villages of Alfriston, Litlington and Jevington, also passing through the Cuckmere Valley, Seven Sisters, Friston Forest and Beachy Head.
The marathon course includes an eye-watering 300 steps, 14 gates and the equivalent elevation of 1,318m along the epic South Downs National Park route.
Setting off from Duke’s Drive, the event features a range of abilities from beginners, walkers and joggers to world class runners.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism & Culture, Councillor Margaret Bannister said, “The Beachy Head Marathon attracts such an impressive field of athletes every year and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to this epic course in our new Ultra Marathon year.
With runners and their families attending from all over the country, this is a super boost to our autumnal tourism economy, with many staying overnight to enjoy an extra break by the sea. Please do come along and support these amazing athletes, it really is a great atmosphere.”
Spectators are being encouraged to show their support and cheer on the participants along the route, which includes a performance from a lone piper, as well as live music by the Watson Brothers in the village of Litlington.
The Brighton & Hove Buses Coaster route covers many viewing spots along the way and the Seven Sisters Visitor Centre and Beachy Head offer the best viewing spots with car parking, refreshments and toilets.
Road closures will be in operation on Duke’s Drive, Upper Duke’s Drive and in the village of Litlington on 22 October for safety reasons, with access to businesses maintained.
The Beachy Head Marathon is supported by Group 1 Hailsham BMW, Bedes School, Euro Self Drive and Tempo specialist running shop in Eastbourne.
All courses run from the start and finish line on Duke’s Drive, outside Bede’s School, with Marathon and Ultra races beginning 8am on Saturday 22 October, with first finishers back around 10.45am. The 10k race also takes place that day starting at 8.20am, which takes in a shorter looping route across the Downs to Belle Tout Lighthouse and back. All participants are expected back by 5pm.
The Half Marathon, now in its third year, takes place at 8am on Sunday 23 October taking in the picturesque scenery at Butts Brow, Friston, Crowlink, Birling Gap, Belle Tout and Beachy Head. Runners are due back by 12.30pm.
To volunteer along the route telephone 01323 415442 or email Phoebe.Barker@lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk.
For more information visit www.BeachyHeadMarathon.com.
