Carn Runners Conquer the Eden Marathon & Half-Marathon

It was another big weekend for Carn Runners as Steve, Bex, and Tony took on the challenge of the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon, one of Cornwall’s toughest and most scenic events. Starting and finishing inside the grounds of the world-famous Eden Project, the races test every kind of runner — from first-timers to seasoned competitors — with their mix of road, trail, and plenty of hill climbing.

The Race Experience

The Eden races are known for their atmosphere and unpredictability. With steep climbs, woodland tracks, and fast descents, runners are treated to some of Cornwall’s best countryside views — if they can lift their eyes from the path long enough to see them!

These are notoriously tough races that were made even more challenging by the almost biblical rain overnight and during the event. Showers turned sections of the trail slick underfoot and made the climbs even tougher, but all three Carnies tackled their respective distances with determination and heart.

Steve took on the full marathon, a gruelling 26.2-mile loop that winds through clay trails, quiet lanes, and farmland before circling back toward the biomes. Bex and Tony lined up for the half-marathon, a challenge in its own right with its constant undulation and energy-sapping hills.

Steve’s Age-Group Podium

Steve’s training clearly paid off as he ran a strong, consistent race, pacing himself smartly through the early climbs and saving enough strength to push hard in the final miles. His effort earned him a fantastic 3rd place in his age group — a brilliant result on such a demanding course.

The Eden Marathon is notorious for its toughness, but Steve’s performance showed experience and control, staying focused from start to finish. Crossing the line inside the Eden Project after 26 hilly miles is an achievement few forget, and that age-group podium makes it even sweeter.

Team Effort in the Half-Marathon

Meanwhile, Bex and Tony both put in strong runs in the Eden Half-Marathon, taking on a course that mirrors much of the full marathon’s terrain but still packs plenty of challenge. The pair managed the rolling trails and woodland climbs with smiles — exactly what you’d expect from Carn Runners — and enjoyed the electric atmosphere as they descended into the Eden site for the finish.

The half may be shorter, but it’s every bit as tough, and both runners earned well-deserved medals (and the right to eat a big slice of cake afterwards).

The Spirit of Eden

One of the most unique features of the Eden races is their sense of celebration — the finish line surrounded by cheering crowds, lush greenery, and the biomes rising like bubbles behind the runners. For many, the Eden Marathon or Half marks the end of a long racing season, a final test of endurance before winter training begins.

Steve, Bex, and Tony embodied everything Carn Runners stand for — teamwork, effort, and encouragement — showing that grit and good humour can conquer even the steepest Cornish trails.

Congratulations, Team Carn!

Huge well done to Steve, Bex, and Tony for fantastic performances at the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon 2025, and special applause for Steve’s 3rd-place age-group finish. Running through hills, mud, and rain takes spirit — and you all proved why Carn Runners are built for challenges like these.

Here’s to another great race in the books, another medal on the rack, and more adventures to come. 💛💙