The bucket list event has become a firm fixture in the running calendar, generating worldwide attention and seeing over 17,000 participants sign up over the years to become a part of its incredible history.
Each year, runners take on an incredible yet challenging multi-terrain route, covering some of Cornwall’s spectacular mining heritage and beautiful countryside landscapes. Spurring them on along the way is the prospect of a medal and a delicious pasty and beer waiting for them after crossing the finish line.
There have been inspiring stories and amazing performances from runners across the event’s fifteen years, with the record for fastest man in the Eden Marathon currently held by Pete Roper who finished with an incredible time of 2:54:12 in 2011, whilst Naomi Tier is the fastest woman to complete the Marathon in 3:12:24 in 2010.
In the Half-Marathon, Lesley Locks currently holds the record of fastest woman with a time of 1:26:54 in 2017. Benard Rotich is the fastest man in the Half-Marathon, setting a new record in 2019 at 1:09:24.
For the past two years, the fastest man in the Eden Project Marathon has been Steve Reynolds from Truro. The fastest woman at last year's Marathon was Emily Harrison who finished with a time of 03:31:11.
As well as attracting passionate runners from across the country and further afield, the event has seen a number of famous faces take part over the years including the much-loved DJ Scott Mills, who took part in the 2011 Eden Marathon, raising £10,000 for charity the MS Society in the process.
Last year, Love Island favourite Luke Mabbott chose the event as his first ever Marathon, cheered across the finish line by his fiancée and fellow Love Islander Lucie Donlan.
So far this year, participants have signed up from throughout the United Kingdom with others travelling from countries such as Germany, The Netherlands and Australia.
The age range of runners is vast too, with those taking part this year from 17 up to the mid-70s.
Entries for this year's event close on September 30, with the money raised from entry fees directly creating wildflower habitats at the Eden Project to help wildlife and pollinators thrive.
The Eden Project’s Commercial Manager, Tracey Smith, who has organised the event since its inception, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon continues to go from strength to strength and we celebrate each and every person who has taken part over the years. There is always such a special atmosphere and energy on the day and our fifteenth event will be no different.
“Our heartfelt continued thanks go to St Austell Running Club, Cornwall Search and Rescue, the volunteers and marshals and all our supporters, all of whom help make the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon the success that it is.”
Those taking part in the event also have the opportunity to raise money for causes they care about, including the Eden Project’s own charitable mission to take positive action for nature and the planet through education, habitat restoration and community building. For more details on how you can support the Eden Project through the event, contact fundraising@edenproject.com.
To sign up to the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon see www.edenproject.com.
