Eden Marathon Returns for Fifteenth Year This October

Participants from across the UK and beyond are preparing for the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon, which returns on Sunday 19th October for its fifteenth event.

The much-loved race has grown into Cornwall’s biggest running event, attracting worldwide attention and more than 17,000 participants over the years.

A Race Like No Other

Each year, runners take on a challenging multi-terrain course that weaves through Cornwall’s mining heritage and countryside landscapes. At the finish line, competitors are rewarded with a medal, a pasty and a beer.

Since its launch, the event has seen standout performances. Pete Roper holds the fastest men’s marathon time at 2:54:12 from 2011, while Naomi Tier remains the fastest woman with a 3:12:24 finish in 2010.

In the Half-Marathon, Lesley Locks set the women’s record in 2017 with a time of 1:26:54. Benard Rotich holds the men’s record, completing in 1:09:24 in 2019.

For the past two years, Steve Reynolds from Truro has taken the fastest man’s title in the marathon. Last year, Emily Harrison was the fastest woman, finishing in 3:31:11.

Famous Faces and First-Time Runners

The event has welcomed well-known participants too. DJ Scott Mills completed the marathon in 2011, raising £10,000 for the MS Society. In 2023, Love Island’s Luke Mabbott ran his first marathon at Eden, cheered on by fiancée and fellow Love Islander Lucie Donlan.

This year, runners are signed up from across the UK as well as Germany, The Netherlands and Australia. Competitors range in age from 17 to those in their mid-70s.

Running for Wildlife

Entries close on 30th September, with funds from entry fees helping to create wildflower habitats at the Eden Project, supporting pollinators and wildlife.

Tracey Smith, Commercial Manager at the Eden Project, who has organised the event since it began, 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.”

Participants also have the opportunity to raise funds for causes they care about, including the Eden Project’s charitable mission focused on nature, education and community.

To sign up for the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon visit www.edenproject.com.