John Johnson wins M50 gold in Endurancelife Coastal Trail Series

John Johnson has won the M50 category in the Endurancelife Coastal Half-Marathon Trail Series. John took the category easily, 35 points clear of his nearest rival. The series was a tough challenge, played out over five rugged courses in Pembrokeshire, Portland, South Devon, Cornwall and Exmoor.

"I nearly did these events as marathons - thank goodness I didn't!" John told us after hearing of his triumph.

"The last race, Exmoor, was the toughest. It was 15.2 miles and took 2 hours 40 minutes. Portland, by contrast was the easiest with longer, drawn-out stretches and best times."

If you're thinking of having a go yourself next year, John suggests you reckon on adding around 13 minutes to your half-marathon time and at least an hour to your marathon time.

"Mind you, it'll be even tougher next year, as the organisers are adding an extra two races to the series, making seven in all. But give it a go. It's well organised and your fellow runners are really friendly," John said.