David Eaton’s love for running knew no bounds, except when it came to the Sabbath. “I was disappointed that at the time most running events took place on a Sunday and I could never participate, so I decided I wanted to host my own event,” he said.
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David Eaton planned to give members and non-members who enjoyed running the opportunity to take part in a half marathon that could enable them to keep the Sabbath day holy, so he went to work with the full support of the local bishop and his local congregation members planning the first Selsdon Half Marathon.
Although small at first, the Saturday-hosted event that took off in 2009 has grown each year as more and more members and friends have become aware of its opportunity. In fact, the event, now in its 7th year, has had the support of participants from all over the UK, including entrants from other countries.
“It is without doubt one of the most friendly and welcoming events I participate in during the year,” past runner Paul Townsend said.
The 13.1 mile run starts and finishes from the Selsdon LDS meetinghouse and weaves through the picturesque challenging hills of Surrey’s countryside. The course includes downhill and flat stretches but is probably most remembered for the one or two challenging hills thrown in. Nevertheless, the Selsdon Half Marathon attracts runners at all levels of experience from the elite athlete to the novice beginner.
Although not an officially measured or timed UK Athletics recognised event, the marathon is a fun opportunity to join with other non-Sunday runners and support a good cause.
The Selsdon Half Marathon supports two charities, 'The South East Cancer Help Centre', based in Purley, who do a magnificent job of supporting those with cancer, and 'Reach the Children UK', a charity that works to provide impoverished children in Africa opportunities to become self-reliant by strengthening families, neighbourhoods and communities.
Finishers receive a medal and a goodie bag, including a t-shirt. David Eaton, along with Adam Hawkins, other Church leaders and a host of more than fifty marshals, will be holding the 2016 Selsdon Half Marathon on Saturday, 19th of March 2016. Interested participants (sixteen years and older) must register on the event’s website at www.selsdonhalfmarathon.verycool.co.uk.