Sharon Connects with Bodmin Way
- Barbara Brittain
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
From a Chance Conversation to a Community Marathon
đź‘Ą In July 2020, Sharon Hambley contacted Bodmin Way to learn more about its walking routes. The introduction came about through Healthy Cornwall, which had connected organisations that had received grant funding. Among those successful applicants were Bodmin Way and a local running club of which Sharon was a member.
The running club was immediately excited by the prospect of tackling Bodmin Way's 20-mile circular route. To explore its potential, Bodmin Way's planner joined Sharon and other club members on a walk around the entire circuit.
Setting off from town and taking in stunning views at Lanivet
Later that year, when the London Marathon was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, runners were offered the opportunity to complete the race virtually. Several members of Sharon's club decided to take on the challenge. What they needed was an interesting local route of the right distance—and Bodmin Way proved ideal. By adding a few extra miles to the existing circuit, they created a marathon-length course through the beautiful Cornish countryside.
Bodmin Way, a social enterprise supporting the five churches of the Bodmin Team Ministry, has three churches perfectly positioned to serve as aid stations along the route: St Stephen's, Nanstallon; the historic church, Lanivet; and St Meubred's, Cardinham. Runners finished at St Petroc's Church in Bodmin, where more refreshments awaited them.
The church congregations enthusiastically embraced the event and gave the runners a warm welcome despite the weather. Torrential rain fell throughout the day, but the participants completed the challenge with smiles on their faces and a sprint finish that demonstrated their determination.
Getting wet on the virtual London Marathon with sprint finish
The success of that virtual marathon sparked a bigger idea. Sharon and others, including Bodmin Way's director, were keen to see the event become an annual fixture. Turning that vision into reality required dedication and teamwork.
As Race Director, Sharon joined forces with David Bidgway and Lesley Taphouse, who have been involved from the very beginning and continue to play key roles in organising the event. Together, they worked tirelessly to create what has become one of Cornwall's most distinctive running challenges.
Today, the event is known as the Beacon Beast Marathon – The Bodmin Way and the Beastie McBeastRace (The Beastly Half). Both races more than live up to their names. The full marathon features approximately 3,000 feet of elevation gain, while the half marathon climbs around 1,800 feet. Anyone familiar with Bodmin's hills will understand why these races have earned their fearsome reputation.
For Sharon, however, the event has always been about more than running. The kindness shown by church volunteers at those first aid stations inspired the marathon team to give back. Each year, funds raised after event costs are distributed among the churches and numerous local community groups that support the race.
Those groups include marshals of all ages, Scouts, Guides, Army Cadets, Equally Abled, youth organisations and many others. Their contribution has been vital in shaping and sustaining the event's success.
To recognise their efforts, an annual celebration is held where volunteers, marshals and members of the growing planning team come together. During the event, presentations are made and cheques are awarded to participating organisations in appreciation of their support.
Sharon writing and presenting cheques in June 2026 and the marathon team working after the celebration!
April 2026 marked an important milestone, with the fifth Beacon Beast Marathon and the third Beastly Half taking place. While the races adhere to all relevant regulations and safety requirements, generous finishing time allowances help make both distances as inclusive and accessible as possible.
The event has also inspired people who never considered themselves runners. Sharon recalls one local Army Cadet who first encountered the race while marshalling at Cardinham. Two years later, once he was old enough, he entered the half marathon himself.
That story perfectly captures what the Beacon Beast is all about: community, commitment, encouragement and achievement.
The next Beacon Beast Marathon will take place on Sunday 25 April 2027. Whether you are ready to tackle the half marathon, brave the full marathon, or volunteer as a marshal, there is an opportunity to be part of something special.
For more information, visit the Beacon Beast Marathon website or explore the Bodmin Way routes and discover the trail that inspired it all.
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