Kielder Marathon welcomes back Ever Present runners for 14th year

An elite group of 13 athletes have completed every Kielder Marathon since the first one back in 2010. David Ailano, Tony Allen, Andrew Beniams, Shaun Dunlop, Steffen Haugk, Susan Wilson, John Campbell, Keith Jackson, John Moss, Martin Randall, Alison Wolstenholme, Stephen Wilburn and Gregory Davies are our group of Ever Present runners. The group have finished Britain’s Most Beautiful marathon every year, running 26.2 miles around the picturesque Kielder Water. In the run-up to the 14th Kielder Marathon, we asked them their favourite parts of the run, and some advice they’d give to first-time Kielder runners.

• Why do you run Kielder every year?

Kielder marathon is praised by many for its spectacular views of Kielder Water and trails through the forest. It attracts many runners for this very reason, offering a scenic alternative to city running. Steffan Haugk has been running for over 40 years, and enters Kielder Marathon every year for the scenery: “It has such a beautiful setting: the lakeside path, the display of colours and the earthy scent of the autumnal forest.” Alison Wolstenholme, who got into marathon running after a major operation, shares a similar love for the area: “its the most beautiful place to run, a very friendly atmosphere and I guess it’s difficult to say no when I’ve been there every year. A part of me now belongs in Kielder.”

• Is there anything you’ve learned over the years?

The route at Kielder includes several hills and undulating lakeside paths, and runners must be prepared to tackle these difficult sections, all while pacing themselves for the whole race. Keith Jackson, who was the winner of the Kielder Veterans age category in 2013 and 2015, advises that “although most of the course follows the shoreline, it is undulating so don’t expect a flat run. Pacing is important so don’t go off too fast.” However, he says “the course is good under foot so trail or road shoes are suitable.”

The physical endurance is only half the effort. Runners need to stay motivated throughout the race to get themselves over the finish line. “A big percentage of getting around the course is a positive mental attitude,” says Alison. “It’s a tough route, and I guess I should embrace hill training, but still find it hard to discipline myself to do this.” Marshals and spectators around the course always help to motivate runners by cheering them on from the sidelines.

• Do you have any advice for first-time Kielder runners?

One of the best ways for runners to stay motivated is to fully immerse yourself in the experience, taking in the beautiful scenery of the route and the atmosphere of the weekend. Steffan’s advice for first-time Kielder runners is to embrace your surroundings: “You’re not going to achieve a PB, so relax and take in the sights, sounds and smells, and enjoy the company of your fellow runners.” Sue Wilson, who names Kielder as one of her favourite marathons, recommends talking to others during the race. “I would encourage everyone to do an event over the weekend to get involved, get moving and get talking! The random chats along the way are fab, I have had conversations from childbirth experiences, broken boilers to ‘so how long is this really…?’

All the Ever Presents gave a special mention to our volunteers, organisers and crews who every year ensure the whole weekend runs smoothly and is a great success. They all work hard to deliver the event and make sure the weekend is enjoyable and memorable for everyone.

We look forward to welcoming back our Ever Presents this weekend for the 14th Kielder Marathon on 6th October 2024.