There aren't many marathons prepared to go up against the behemoth that takes place in London on Sunday 27 April 2025, but the Beacon Beast Marathon and Beastie McBeast Half Marathon in deepest Cornwall is brave enough to accept the challenge!

This will be the fourth edition of 'Beacon Beast Marathon—The Bodmin Way', to give the main event its full title. According to the organiser's blog, the Beastie McBeast Race Half Marathon was released from captivity last year and will return to challenge runners in 2025.

Neither race is for the faint-hearted. The Beastie McBeast Race Half Marathon course measures a more than generous 14.7 miles and climbs about 1,700 feet. The Beacon Beast Marathon is almost 27 miles long and features over 3,000 feet of elevation!

The organisers are a small team of Bodmin residents who have been working hard together since October 2020 to create an excellent adventure for runners. You will see all the sights of Bodmin, including Bodmin Beacon near the halfway point. The route also takes you through the Parishes of Lanhydrock, Lanivet, Nanstallon and Cardinham, where volunteers will offer snacks and drinks.

To one Events Team member, the route map forms the shape of a set of bagpipes, which is a remarkable coincidence as this member has Scotland in his DNA (his grandfather was a professional goalkeeper for Hamilton Academicals FC).

However you look at it, this is a golden opportunity to enjoy and complete a very special event, either a marathon or half-marathon distance, along public rights of way. Everyone taking part should take the time to immerse themselves in the amazing natural terrain around Bodmin, with many varying and incredible views that you will feel lucky to experience.

Known hazards include overhanging branches, tree roots, loose gravel/stones and a miniature Grand Canyon with those obstacles in and around it. In wet weather, bogs will add additional fun features. However, those who dare from around the UK inevitably cross the finish line with a ‘Beastly’ smile!

Online entries close on Thursday, 24 April. Entries on the day may be available at a £3 surcharge.

All the details are at the Beacon Beast website here.

Previous results are at the runABC South race listing here.

Photo of 'Speedo Mick' and friends courtesy of Beacon Beast Marathon on Facebook