Fast times are possible in Manx Marathon

Everyone says how tough the Manx Marathon course is. I wouldn't disagree but its amazing how if you are fit enough, and perhaps young enough, you can still run a good time on it.

I've repeatedly said that Robbie Callister was a better runner than a walker, despite his amazing successes in the Parish Walk and End to End Walk, partly because he was competing in the walking events at a much later stage in his athletics career.

Before studying his times over a five year period, reflect on the fact that until Ed Gumbley ran 2 sub 2.40 times in Berlin and London, not a single Manx runner had broken 2.40 since 1995.

Now, have a look at Robbie's times in Ramsey on that tough course (year, time and age).

1990 02:39:00 35
1991 02:33:30 36
1992 02:38:02 37
1993 02:32:24 38
1994 02:35:23 39
Average 02:35:40

I researched these times one lunchtime the week after the 2010 Salclear Isle of Man Marathon but didn't get this bit done because I decided to go for a walk. I had only gone 30 yards when by coincidence I saw Robbie driving out of the Ballthane Industrial Estate!

Now, before I am accused of being too nice to him and acting as if I was has agent, here is he video I published on the Parish Walk blog which some of you might not have picked up on. He made rather a surprise announcement!