The 2026 Sure Guernsey Marathon saw its biggest turnout to date as runners, spectators and volunteers came together across the island.
310 runners took on the full marathon – the highest number in the event’s history – alongside 110 relay teams of five and 55 relay teams of two, with 235 participants also taking part in the family-friendly Marathon Mile.
Crowds lined the scenic route from St Peter Port through to the west coast, supporting runners at every stage of the race. The event brought together elite athletes, first-time runners and families, reflecting its growing appeal locally and further afield.
Over 55% of the marathon field is from overseas, including Jersey, the UK, France, the Netherlands, Australia, and the USA, making the Sure Guernsey Marathon a truly international sporting occasion.
Among the standout performances, Guillaume Ruel claimed victory, crossing the finish line in 02:25:00 and setting a new course record in what proved to be a highly competitive race. In the women’s race, Harriet Carr was the fastest female finisher, clocking 02:56:10 and also breaking the course record.
Mike Fawkner-Corbett, Head of Consumer at event sponsor Sure, said: “Marathon day is a real moment in Guernsey’s sporting calendar and it’s been fantastic to be down here seeing so many people enjoy the atmosphere and challenge themselves.
“The beauty of this event is that it connects serious athletes, casual runners, families and those who are just challenging themselves around one amazing course. It must be one of the most scenic marathons in the world and we’re lucky it’s right here on our doorstep.
“This is our fifth year as headline sponsor of The Sure Guernsey Marathon and it goes from strength to strength. We’re proud to see more and more people, locals and visitors, taking part each year – huge credit to the organisers for making it happen.”
Josh Lewis, marathon runner and Sure ambassador, said: “It’s an amazing feeling to come home to Guernsey and run a course like this, finishing in the marathon village where the atmosphere has been incredible.
“I don’t do a lot of road racing so I wanted to challenge myself to get a good time today and I’m pleased with how I did. It was a great race and doing it with family and friends here for support was extra special. You get the sense this is a real community event and it emphasised the power of sport to connect people, even in an individual pursuit like running.
“Competing all over the world gives you a great perspective on what a well-organised event looks like, and the Sure Guernsey Marathon has been brilliantly managed. Thanks to everyone who worked on it, marshalled, volunteered and helped out – these people make race days what they are.”
Andrew Thomas, Race Director, said: “It’s been incredible to see how the Sure Guernsey Marathon has grown year on year, with record participation in 2026 demonstrating the strength and appeal of the event. It’s fantastic to see so many locals taking part in their home race, alongside runners from across the UK and beyond. The marathon has firmly established itself as a must-attend destination event for both residents and visitors.
“Events like this play an important role in supporting the island’s tourism and local economy, bringing visitors into our hotels, restaurants and businesses while
showcasing Guernsey on an international stage. It’s something the whole community can be proud of, and a real testament to the hard work of everyone involved in delivering such a high-quality event.”
