Recently, the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team promoted a 24 hour race in Tooting Bec, London. The race was won Richard Quennell of Rugby and Northampton A.C. with a distance of 145 miles. 76 year old.
Geoff Oliver, completed a distance of 111 miles 285 yards (178.898km), which subject to confirmation is a world best performance for over 75 years track. The leading women Aileen Scott from Glasgow’s Clydesdale Harriers with 117 miles.
The aim of a 24 Hour Race is to run as far as possible, round a 400 metre track. Each time a runner passes by the lap is noted by his counter. Each 24 hour race requires a dedicated team of helpers – cooks, counters, support e.t.c.
Joy of Counting
Why Run 24 Hour Races?
A 24 hour race provides the runner with a great opportunity to transcend and compete with themselves running further before. It is not just a physical challenge but also a great inner challenge.
Sri Chinmoy, the founder of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, was a great believer in the benefits of long distance running.
There is also a great atmosphere at 24 hour races, with a feeling of cooperation and challenge.
- 24 Hour Race Report at Sri Chinmoy Races by Abichal Watkins
- The Counting Shed – an experience of a counter at a 24 Hour Race, by Sumangali Morhall