The "must do" event of the year for avid marathon runners: Kent Roadrunner Marathon

Race report: The third annual Kent Roadrunner Marathon - Saturday, May 31, 2014

Photos: On their way to earning the UK’s biggest finisher’s medal. The showboating competition adds some fun for runners and spectators alike

Saturday 31st May 2014 was a glorious day for the record attendance of runners participating in the third annual Kent Roadrunner Marathon.

Organised by the tzruns team and held at Cyclopark in Gravesend, Kent, this marathon is rapidly earning a reputation as the “must do” event of the year for avid marathon runners.  Precision perfect organisation and with phenomenal attention to detail, the tzruns team certainly know how to host a running event for runners.  Personalised race numbers, free photos, inspirationally designed medals and t-shirts as well as free showers, WIFI and a brilliant onsite café are just some of the reasons why this marathon is getting more and more popular every year.  Another speciality of this event is the showboating competition – rewarding runners for some outlandish jumping, leaping and dancing during the race. This year runners were competing to win a trip to the Frankfurt Marathon courtesy of 209:Events.

Running 17 laps of the sooth tarmac racing circuit was all that was required to earn the right to wear the UK’s biggest finisher’s medal with pride, something that 355 people successfully did.

At the front end it was Adam Holland that set the pace early in the race.  Following on from his recent victory in Brathay 10 in 10  he led the runners around the course, with Adam Stokes and Simon Sikora hot on his heels.

Ultimately it was Adam Stokes that paced his race to perfection and was the first to cross the finish line in a personal best time of 2:42:13, setting a new course record in the process.  He was followed over the line by Simon Sikora (2:47:21) with Adam Holland securing the final podium position (2:48:09). 

Photos (clockwise top l-r): Race winner Adam Stokes. The men's podium. Adam Stokes and race director Ian J Berry © tzruns / Stuart March Photography

Runners throughout the field were complimenting the leaders for the never-ending encouragement and support that they offered their fellow runners as they lapped them.  This is sportsmanship at its best.

In the ladies’ race Sally Ford led the race from start to finish and looked comfortable as she negotiated each lap.  She crossed the line in 3:17:39 followed by Helen James (3:25:59) and Rebecca Bryant (3:36:21).

Photos (clockwise top l-r): Race winner Sally Ford. The women's podium. Sally Ford and race director Ian J Berry © tzruns / Stuart March Photography

The race was generously supported by CLIF Bar, Southern Running Guide and Scott Sports.

tzruns was formed by Ian J Berry and Sandra Bowers with over 200 marathons experience, to be the best and most fun event for all participants and helpers.  Their events have become as famous for their slick organisation as they have for their fan-friendly touches and enormous medals!

Their 2015 Kent Roadrunner Marathon is already open for entries at kentroadrunner.com

Photos: Andrew Clark celebrates his finish. Anna Hatton receives a trophy for finishing her 100th marathon © tzruns / Stuart March Photography

Men's results

Women's results

Click here for full results