Thousands of people are preparing for this weekend’s Brighton Marathon. More than 20,000 competitors are expected to participate in the 26-mile race around the East Sussex city.
Band to Perform Mid-Marathon
Patty Walters and Ben Biss, from the band As It Is, have announced plans to stop halfway through the marathon to perform a song at the Bandstand.
“It was too much of a ridiculous idea to say no to,” said Walters. Biss, who lives in Brighton, admitted to having no prior running experience before training for this year’s marathon.
“I have a very poor relationship with exercise – this is one of the reasons why I wanted to do the marathon this year.”
Biss added, “I am feeling nervous and excited. The idea of running eight miles after playing a song is wild to me.” The bandmates, including members from Sheffield and Bath, will have their instruments ready at the Bandstand.
A Marathon Veteran’s Perspective
Lisa Jackson, from Worthing, is set to run her 110th marathon at Brighton. Describing herself as a “slow runner,” Jackson mentioned her “claim to fame” is finishing last in 25 races.
“I am a very big proponent of walk-running.”
Jackson, who plans to wear a flamingo hat and skirt, completed last year’s Brighton race in just over seven hours but anticipates a slower time this year due to an injury. She shared that running provided her with purpose during her late husband Graham’s illness and continues to do so.
Jackson highlighted the inclusive nature of the Brighton Marathon, noting, “They do not have an official cut-off and will try and help you get across that finish line in whatever way they can. It is a brutal world out there if you are slow.”
She encouraged anyone hesitant about competing due to concerns about finishing to “have a go”. “You can always pull out. You’re not going to be left out in the middle of nowhere up a mountain or something.”
Running Club Celebrates Anniversary
Victoria Maleski, chair of the Seaford Striders running club, said she was “taking it easy” ahead of the race, while also “working up mentally.”
Maleski said that 52 members of the club, including 20 first-time marathon runners, will be running to celebrate the club’s 40th anniversary.
“I was not a runner then,” she said. “But what a legacy they have left for us”.
The 65-year-old revealed that she began running nine years ago through the couch to 5K programme. She added the exercise plan could “make such a difference to people’s lives”.
“It is wonderful to see people’s lack of belief in themselves turn into such pride”.
Final Preparations Underway
With the Brighton Marathon approaching, participants are making their final preparations for the 26-mile challenge.