The Brathay 10 Marathons In 10 Days Challenge

Having now successfully completed a third Brathay 10in10 challenge I would just like to say what a life changing experience this has all been and would therefore like to thank Brathay for allowing me the privilege of being part of what in my eyes has become the ultimate endurance running event in the UK.

Throughout those 10 days, you cannot help but feel that you are part of a team with one common goal, to complete the 10in10. Obviously we all have our own targets and expectations, but there is no getting away from the fact that you are not only willing your own body to keep going, but you're also willing everybody else to keep going too.

Along with the support from staff at Brathay, Active Physio, Team Nutrition, all the helpers and volunteers who contribute so much in many many ways, it is indeed one massive team effort and I thank each and every one of you for making it such a memorable experience. 

The fact that this event also takes place at Brathay with the finish line on the lawn outside Brathay Hall at the head of Lake Windermere means that you cannot fail to be inspired. It is indeed a magnificant setting to match a magnificant achievement by everybody taking part.

After 30 laps of England's largest lake, I said this would be my last time (but you never know!). Whatever happens in the future though, I will always look back with many fond and wonderful memories of some great things that have been achieved and I hope go on to be achieved in years to come.

Long live the Brathay 10in10.

Summary of my 2009 10in10

Day1  Day2  Day3  Day4  Day5  Day6  Day7  Day8  Day9  Day10

3:13      3:23      3:26     3:17      3:15      3:18      3:18     3:18      3:25     3:20

Total Aggregate Time - 33:16:34 

Average Time For Each Marathon - 3:19.39

Average Mile Time for 262 miles - 7 min 37 sec   

Final Standings

Men - Adam Holland 32:47:03,  Steve Edwards 33:16:34, Tim Charles 33:22:05

Please see www.brathaychallenge.com for full results and info.

Can I just say a big thank you to everyone that has donated including my employer.

Environmental Scientifics Group.

I would also like to thank everyone who has supported me during this journey including my family, friends, fellow club members at Bourton Roadrunners & 100 Marathon Club, my sports masseur and of course my sponsors -

Mannatech - High quality nutritional supplements.

Team Nutrition - Hydration & recovery drinks.

I would also like to thank the most important part of Team Edwards, my loving wife and No 1 fan Teresa for her support and understanding without which I wouldn't have made it this far. 

Running one marathon is hard enough, however in May I will be attempting to run 10 marathons in 10 days for a third successive time on an accurately measured UK Athletics certified marathon course.

The marathon route for this challenge follows a hilly 26.2 mile circuit around Lake Windermere, considered to be one of the UK's toughest road marathons. At the age of 46, I will be the oldest male taking part in the challenge, so the thought of attempting another 10 consecutive marathons around England's largest lake is particularly daunting

However, the fact that I will again be raising money for the Brathay Hall Trust charity makes this all worth while and I'm determined to complete my goal. Brathay's work with disadvantaged children and young people from all over the UK is invaluable in giving them the confidence and life skills to make positive choices which ultimately helps them overcome the difficulties arising from their poor social circumstances. 

Thank you

Steve Edwards

For more information on Brathay and the challenge, please visit

www.brathay.com

www.brathaychallenge.com

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