By Isle of Wight Observer
More than 100 runners took to Island trails this weekend, for the annual IW Relay, a unique team event covering the full length of the Island and back again in 12 legs.
Organised by West Wight Road Runners, the event attracted around 110 participants from local clubs and running groups. Teams tackled the 57 mile (91.7km) route, with detailed maps and leg changeover instructions provided in advance, allowing them to focus on the challenge and enjoy the day.
This year’s participants included IW Road Runners, West Wight Road Runners, Wootton Bridge Runners, Ventnor Sloggers, Dark Star, Vectis Academy, and a determined trio who completed all 12 legs between the three of them.
The relay started at 6am from Highdown car park, near Totland Bay, and finished at the nearby Highdown Inn, where runners were welcomed with well-earned refreshments as part of the pub’s beer festival.
Although the IW Relay is a non-competitive event, there was excitement at the finish line as the IW Road Runners crossed first, completing the full course in just 7h 40m.
Now a regular fixture in the Island running calendar, the IW Relay offers a chance for local runners to test their endurance, share the experience with team-mates, and take in some of the Island’s most scenic routes.