Meadows Marathon sets charitable sights high

The Meadows Marathon, which is set to take place on 2 March 2008, is to be the largest event of its kind in the country, according to organizers.

So far, around 1,000 runners are expected to hit the beaten paths around the Meadows Park in order to raise money for a wide variety of charities. Race organizers are hoping the event will raise in excess of £100,000 for charitable causes.

Joe Pick, spokesman for the Meadows Marathon, said: “It’s all about personal goals. Whether you want to get fitter, need a challenge for 2008 or just fancy raising money for charity, the Meadows Marathon might be just what you need. Hundred of students have already registered through our website and places are running out fast.”

The race is organised by students from the University of Edinburgh and last year raised £10,000 – one of the largest recorded donations to charity by a student group. The event has been sponsored by the Quartermile development and has The Journal as a media partner. The Meadows Marathon has already signed up several local charities including Waverly Care, Capability Scotland and homeless charity Four Square.

Last year’s winner and course record holder, William Hyde, will be running again this year, alongside hundreds of others, and will attempt to beat his time of 1 hour 25 minutes. Participants are able to register for either the entire half-marathon or a five-kilometre “fun-run.”

On the day, music and entertainment will be provided to produce a “festival atmosphere.”

Mr Pike said: “A boy piper, African drummers, jugglers, opera singers and a jazz quintet are lined up to entertain participants and supporters on the day. It is going to be an event for the whole community to enjoy.”