Jock Waddington approaches the finishing line in 2008

The 2009 Clerical Medical Parish Walk has received a record entry of 1,620 race walkers applying to take part.

Competitors have 24 hours to complete the 85-mile course which visits all 17 parish churches around the island and finishes on Douglas Promenade.

In 2008, Jock Waddington took the title in monsoon-like conditions recording a time of 15 hours 44 minutes 43 seconds.

Sue Biggart was the first woman home and fifth overall in an excellent time of 16:42:09.

Biggart holds six of the seven best times for a female parish walker.

A total of 121 walkers completed the 85-mile route in 2008.

David Whittam was the final walker to cross the line at 0754 BST, just five minutes and 53 seconds off a day after setting off.

The 2009 race starts from the National Sports Centre in Douglas at 0800 BST on Saturday, 20 June.

Robbie Callister will be out to equal John Cannell's record of six wins but the walk's fastest ever man Sean Hands will not be taking part this year.

As well as the elite competitors many enter for fun or to raise money for charity although it is a recognised race and is subject to standard race-walking rules.

Entrants also have the option of finishing at any stage but typical targets are Rushen after 19 miles or Peel after 32 miles.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version