Get set for Britain’s ultimate walking challenge

First held as a sporting challenge between two men in the last century, The Isle of Man Parish Walk was revived in its present form in the 1960’s, as an event open to all. The landmark annual event is one of the oldest sporting events on the Island’s calendar and this year it is looking likely to beat 2007’s record 1,329 entrants.

To complete the course you have to walk 85 miles, calling in at each of the Island’s 17 parish churches, but for most competitors it is simply a challenge to see just how many churches they can reach in the allocated time. Open to all competitors of all standards, the course has to be completed in 24 hours and walks you through the Island’s parishes of Andreas, Arbory, Ballaugh, Braddan, Bride, German, Jurby, Lezayre, Lonon, Malew, Marown, Maughold, Michael, Onchan, Patrick, Rushen and Santon but be warned - only 153 actually finished the entire course last year!

In 2006 a new record was set for the event by Sean Hands who completed the course in 14 hours 47 minutes and 36 seconds. Last year, Robbie Callister won the 2007 Isle of Man Parish Walk.

Adrian Earnshaw, Minister for Tourism, commented: “The Isle of Man Parish Walk is a real test of grit and determination and a must-do for walkers. The event has become the ultimate sporting challenge on the Island and although demanding, it does generate a huge amount of interest amongst the local community and there is a tremendous social atmosphere as both locals and visitors join in the fun on the Isle of Man.”

The 85-mile Parish Walk kicks off at 8am on Saturday 21 June from the National Sport Centre in Douglas.

For more information visit: Parishwalk.com