Over 180 runners compete in Port of Dover Race Festival

The Port of Dover Race Festival saw runners from across the country achieve incredible personal goals for charity at the weekend.

The weekend of races began with the first ever Port of Dover Kids Mile on Friday afternoon. Amidst the sunshine, local children flexed their legs on the Prince of Wales Pier, a fitting way to mark the long contribution of the Pier to the public enjoyment of Dover seafront and a key location for the future regeneration of Dover that will be enjoyed by the next generation of Dovorians.

The wet conditions on Saturday and Sunday did not dampen spirits and over 180 runners competed in all-inclusive races over the two days. Of special note, Stephen McAllister and Mark Fox completed all four events with Stephen even winning the marathon on Saturday, and on Sunday Steve Edwards achieved his 600th sub 3.30 marathon finishing second overall and Beth Taylor-Jones ran her 100th marathon finishing as second lady.

Tim Waggott, Chief Executive for the Port of Dover says: "We talk about working hard to keep Dover, the Port and the UK economy moving. Well Dover was certainly moving on the seafront as the runners completed their races this weekend.

"The Festival showcased Dover and its hospitality and was an example of how Dover should be seen as a place of opportunity to achieve something exceptional within a supportive community. The Prince of Wales Pier will close later this year as the regeneration of the waterfront moves forward. What more fitting way to mark the start of something incredible for Dover as we transform Dover together with our customers and community."

The Festival raised funds for the Brathay Trust to help improve the life chances of children and young people. Over £3,000 was raised during the course of the weekend.

Event organiser and Port of Dover staff member, Karen Webber, says: "It was a great weekend all round, particularly as it was for such a great cause. The multi-lap nature of the course on Dover seafront created a friendly atmosphere for everyone involved. The fantastic bespoke medals also helped to make the Port of Dover Race Festival a unique event. I hope that those who competed will return in the future to see how the waterfront is changing as the Port revives the Western Docks."