This event is set on the small Island of Mersea, just off the Essex coast. As the name suggests the race completely circles the island and is rarely more than a stones throw from the water. It is the oldest race in Essex, being first ran in 1919, completed for by locals with a gallon of beer to the winner, however, it has not been run every year since. The current race has been resurrected in 2026 by the Hare & Tortoise Company, after a break since CoVid. It is around 13 miles and is mainly on coastal paths and promenades, with sections on the beach. Any half marathon run in the summer months is testing and add to this the sea breezes, the terrain and the sections on the beach makes this a very challenging, but rewarding, run. It is recommended to take part in this event at least once, even if for some once might be enough.

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The start and finish is on the beach by Victoria Esplanade and the HQ is at the Mersea Lions beach hut. The nearest car park is Victoria Esplanade and is around £7, unless you can get in and out within 2 hours which is £4. There is free street parking fairly close by. 

 

£5 of the entry fee goes to the Mersea Lions for projects on the island. A highly recommended event.

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