Gin PIt Medals 2022
Back in 2011 I first held the Gin Pit Double Marathon, I only intended to hold the event once. My idea was born out of wanting to raise funds for Brathay and also to offer a slightly different kind of marathon event in the Northwest of England. It was also about challenging myself to take on something new and learn. To my knowledge, it is still the ONLY single loop double marathon in the country and maybe in the world.
The has now run for 12 years, much longer than I had ever planned and raised far more money for Brathay than I could have ever imagined. The event has grown and created quite a following in the marathon running community, with lots of runners eager to return year after year. It seems to have developed its own curious cult following and I feel honoured and privileged to be the events founder.
I also have a lot of affection for this race, like it is my baby and I need to look after it. If I stop holding the event, it will be like it has died. That said, I have had a very busy 12 years managing the event and it’s little brother, the Lions Bridge running event. During this period, I have also run over 300 marathons, completed the Brathay 10in10 ten times and raised over £60,000 for Brathay.
I am feeling mentally and physically tired from all these years of effort and need some time focus on taking it a little easier, doing a few different things and taking a bit of time for myself. For this reason, I have made the difficult decision not to hold the Gin Pit Double Marathon in 2024. I don’t want it to be the end of the event so at the moment I am considering making it bi-annual. I hope to clarify this during 2024 and will keep all you Gin Pitters duly informed.
I want to thank all my friends who has helped me hold the event each year as marshals and especially my family and Yuk-Lam. I have said this many times before but without you all, the event would truly not have been the success and enjoyed by all the runners in the way it has. I also want to thank all the runners for making the event what it is, creating its spirit and atmosphere each year.
As for the Lions Bridge Running Event, I am still considering holding it in the summer. More will be revealed in the new year.
I wish you all the best with your running and any individual challenges you may be taking on. Never give up, believe in yourself and keep pushing your limits.
