Chariots of Fire Beach Race.
Sunday 2 June 2024.
A leisurely drive took me to a warm and sunny St Andrews, the home of golf.
Not for me 18 holes and bunkers though.
Now in its 10th year, the Chariots of Fire Beach race is inspired by the opening scene of the titular Oscar-winning 1982 film. This was filmed on the West Beach at St Andrews.
This year it was significant as it’s 100 years since the legendary Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams epic wins at the 1924 Paris Olympics.
Well supported by local businesses, it raises money for a host of charities in the area such as the Anstruther Lifeboat.
This was commemorated with the specially commissioned t-shirts marking the occasion. A nice touch was everyone received them before the race so it was a sea of white.
Inspired by the energetic kids race first, the main event took place at 12pm.
As the Baywatch theme tune gave way to the strains of Vangelis, a sold-out field of 757 runners was off and running.
Some entered into the spirit of the event running barefoot.
The course was nice and flat with firm sand. Any hazards such as sandcastles had been removed beforehand.
On a warm day with a light breeze, I was happy with a finish time of 30 minutes in 304th place. More Lidl middle aisle than Eric Liddell
As well as the rather nice medals, St Andrews Brewing Co produced a VangALEis IPA, as well as a non-alcohol alternative.
Each runner received a can along with a tote bag.
There was also a superb buffet with doughnuts.
Then it was home via The Wee Chippy in Anstruther. Those calories don’t replace themselves.
All in all a really fun and well-organised event in a great location.
