On Sunday 28th September 2008, New Eltham Joggers will proudly present the first ever staging of the Green Chain Marathon which will be run over a 27 mile scenic multi terrain route. This will be over a well sign posted course of the Green Chain paths around the South East London area. There are fixed, permanent Green Chain route markers at every 50 feet or so, but a written route description and map will be given to you when you pick up your race number on the day of the event.

The course starts at the New Eltham Joggers club house in Avery Hill Park and follows the Green Chain path to the river Thames at Thamesmead. It then follows the river Thames footpath to Erith. From Erith it continues to follow the Green Chain paths via Plumstead Common and Mottingham to Chislehurst and then back to the New Eltham Joggers club house.

The run passes three  major historic sites, although the whole route encompasses places of interest. (see the green Chain Walks web site at www.greenchain.com for more details).

Firstly, at 6 miles you run past Lesnes Abbey ruins in Abbey Wood. The Abbey was built in1178 and was ruined during the church reformation of 1524 and is now a well preserved site of historical interest. You pass the second historic site at 8 miles. This is the Crossness engine pump house built by Sir Joseph Bazalgate in 1858 to pump sewage across south London and take it into the Thames at Thamesmead. Thirdly, at about 22 miles you run past Eltham Palace which was built in 1475 for Edward IV. It is more noted today as a Tudor palace during the era of Henry VII and Henry VIII.

The run is a one lap multi terrain course. It is predominantly off road although there are stretches along tarmac paths and pavements and there are roads to cross. Please take care when crossing as there will be no marshals. Please also be careful running through the woods and be aware of hidden tree roots and low branches.

There are changing and shower facilities at the New Eltham Joggers club house and refreshments will be available in the bar afterwards. The is a small car park but plenty of off street parking is also available. Full details on this will be sent with your acceptance slip.

If you are interested in taking part in the first Green Chain marathon please click on the sub menu and down load the application form.

Martin Wisdom & Simon Riley - Race Directors