Carn Runners were back out on the trails for one of Cornwall’s toughest challenges as Bex took on the aptly named Beacon Beast Marathon — and what a run it turned out to be.
Covering around 27 miles across a demanding route that weaves through Bodmin, Lanhydrock and Cardinham Woods, this is no ordinary marathon. With relentless hills, varied terrain and long stretches through woodland trails, it’s a race that really earns its name.
A Proper Trail Marathon Challenge
The Beacon Beast is known for pushing runners to their limits, and this year was no exception.
With hot conditions adding to the challenge, the course demanded careful pacing, strong legs and plenty of determination. The climbs keep coming, the terrain constantly changes, and there’s very little opportunity to switch off.
But that’s exactly what makes it such a rewarding event.
Bex took it all in stride, handling both the distance and terrain brilliantly, and coming away with a huge achievement — completing one of the toughest trail marathons around.
Strength in the Group
One of the standout parts of the day was the atmosphere among the runners.
Trail events like this often bring out a different side of racing — less about chasing times and more about shared experience. Bex highlighted the chatty, supportive nature of the group, with fellow runners helping keep spirits high and even making sure no one took a wrong turn along the way.
When you’re deep into a long, hilly trail marathon, that kind of support can make all the difference.
Pushing Through the Tough Moments
Every marathon has its difficult patches, and the Beacon Beast certainly delivers plenty of those.
Between the heat, the relentless hills and the distance, there are moments where you have to dig deep and keep going. Bex did exactly that, pushing through the tougher sections and coming out the other side with a strong finish.
After a run like that, it’s no surprise the legs and ankles are feeling it, but that’s all part of taking on a challenge of this scale.
Age Group Success to Top It Off
As if completing a race like the Beacon Beast wasn’t enough, Bex also secured 1st place in her age category — a fantastic result and a brilliant reward for such a strong run.
Age group wins at events like this are never easy to come by, especially on a course that demands so much from every runner. It’s a testament to the effort, determination and consistency shown throughout the race.
A Huge Achievement — and More to Come
Completing the Beacon Beast Marathon is something to be seriously proud of. It’s not just about the miles — it’s the terrain, the conditions and the mental strength required to see it through.
Bex described it as an amazing run, and rightly so.
With the way this one was handled, it sounds like there are even bigger challenges on the horizon.
Massive congratulations to Bex on a fantastic effort — and an age group win to go with it 👏💙💛
