Bournemouth beach
This year’s Bournemouth Bay Run is set to bring a sense of quirky fun to the bay as they celebrate 40 years since runners, back in 1983, donned their neon headbands and made the run an annual event.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Bournemouth’s famous seven-mile stretch of golden sand, the 40th Bournemouth Bay Run will take place on Sunday 2 April, 2023.
Bay Run organisers are appealing for runners who took part 40 years ago to email any photos of running the Bay Run over the years to bay.run@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.
Councillor Beverley Dunlop, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Vibrant Places said: ”If you, or someone you know took part in the Bournemouth Bay Run back in the 80s, we would love to hear from you!
“This year, runners are encouraged to wear 80’s running gear to mark the four-decade milestone.
“Bright neon colours were all the rage in the 80s and forget about leggings or tights, it was all about those really short shorts!
“And no 80s running outfit is complete without some fun accessories, so think ‘Flashdance’ and add headbands, leg warmers, or even fingerless gloves.”
David Prosser took part in 1990, he recalled, “My most vivid memories from 1990 are of running up past the BIC, to the top of the cliffs, which was around the 10-mile mark and proved a killer section!
“However, after the drop back down onto the promenade there were literally hundreds of supporters lining the route to the finish, spurring the runners on, so the incredible views and scenery along the route were capped off by the cheering crowd.
“I recall my time was 1:46 but the last 3 miles were the most challenging and rewarding.”
Getting on track with your training for the Bournemouth Bay Run if you are an experienced runner or simply needing a goal for your Couch to 5K progression is a great way to reach your fitness goals in 2023, whilst supporting one of the chosen charities which this year is Dorset Mind, Lewis Manning, and RNLI.
