Hundreds take part in Exeter marathon and five-miler

Radio Exe's athlete, 16, is third

Hundreds of runners have taken part in Exeter’s annual marathon and five-mile race.

The City Community Trust, the charity arm of Exeter City Football Club, organise events throughout the year to encourage physical activity. 

The marathon is one of the flattest in the country, taking place along part of the banks of the River Exe, and which allows for some fast times and first-timers.

The five-mile event enables runners to make the step up from the 5k distance, whilst enjoying the marathon atmosphere. It also gives younger runners the opportunity to compete. 

As a Radio Exe work experience student, and committed runner, at 16, I'm not allowed to run a marathon, but took part in the five-miler on Sunday.

The winner was Rémi Delhaye, with Sofia Lenzi winning the women’s race, improving on her second-place last year. I came third.

This year’s marathon was won by Adam Holland in a time of 2:37:30 with Kate Saddler the first female home. 

The event also acts as a fundraiser, with many participants choosing to run for one of Exeter City Community Trust’s charity partners:

• Alright Mate? A charity aiming to “normalise conversations about male mental health” through various events.
• Exeter Leukaemia Fund, a local organisation providing “vital support to patients with blood cancer and other disorders.”
• Julian House which “supports vulnerable and at-risk individuals,” including people experiencing homelessness or domestic abuse.

With 126 people finishing this year's community event, it was a significant increase on last year.

Radio Exe's Dylan Travers, 16, is third in the Exeter City Community Trust five-miler (image courtesy: Charles Travers)