British runner achieves Guinness record for 1000 marathons

On Monday May 6th at the renowned Milton Keynes marathon, British marathon runner Steve Edwards was crowned the new Guinness world records title holder for running 1000 marathons in the fastest average finish time.

Battling a painful hip injury that he sustained after his 996th marathon, 61-year-old Edwards, from North Gloucestershire in England crossed the finish line to the excitement and jubilation of family, friends and the whole UK marathon running community who came along to witness what many consider to be the ultimate multi marathon world record ever achieved.

Commenting after the race, Edwards said “Today was the finale to what has been an incredible 43 year journey, an end of an era and we can’t quite believe that it’s now all over. I don’t mind admitting that it’s been extremely difficult in recent years with wear and tear and injury all taking its toll. There are so many people I would like to thank, friends, supporters and all my sponsors but the biggest thank you goes to my lovely wife Teresa – none of this would have been possible without her dedicated and loving support.”

Since 1981 Edwards has run in 1000 official marathon races, achieving 325 sub 3:15s, 500 sub 3:20s, 801 sub 3:30s and 1000 sub 4.00s. On average he ran a marathon every 13 days for the last 36 years.

First 500 marathons – 22 years – aged 25-45 – Average finish time 3:18.

Second 500 marathons – 14 years – aged 45 – 61 – Average finish time 3:24.

Total average finish time for all 1000 marathons 3:21:47.