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Farnham Pilgrim Marathon finishers

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims this Sunday

Farnham Pilgrim Marathon draws 500 competitors to ancient trails

The definition of a pilgrim is a long-distance traveller, usually on foot, to some place of special, generally holy significance. Much of that definition is adhered to annually by the Rotary Club of Farnham Weyside with their annual Farnham Pilgrim Marathon and Half Marathon, the latest iteration of which takes place this Sunday (13 September).

Around 200 marathoners and 300 half marathon competitors are due off in waves between 7:00 am and 11:35 am in a cunningly arranged order that should see limited overtaking and finishing times between 11:35 am and 3:00 pm to comply with current COVID-19 restrictions.

The race starts at Sandy Farm, The Sands, Farnham and follows two different out and back courses that take in the beautiful footpaths and country lanes east of Farnham, featuring parts of the ancient Pilgrims Way and the scenic (and challenging) North Downs.

Runners will pass historic churches and famous old hostelries while drinking in the far-reaching views across the Surrey Hills – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A great view of the course can be enjoyed via this superb video produced by Paul Coe, of Tone Zone Runners, after completing the 2016 marathon in 4:25:23. 

There are a few brutal hills that contribute to the 2,489 feet of elevation in the full marathon, which explains the course best times of 2:48:13 (Joe Morwood, Aldershot in 2019) and 3:07:03 (Holly Rush, Team Bath in 2012).

Full information, including the essential COVID-secure measures that organisers have worked so hard on to ensure this event can proceed safely, available at Farnham Pilgrim Marathon website here

Results will be posted on runABC South's comprehensive race listing here

Image courtesy  Farnham Pilgrim Marathon

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