Blisters galore on gruelling round-the-island walk

Saturday 18 June 2016

The figures say it all - a whopping 253,440 feet, or 3,041,280 inches.

It’s beauty and the beast on a single day as a tough 48-mile walk around Jersey is in marked contrast to the Island’s stunning coastline, sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and magnificent countryside.

The Collas Crill Round Island Walk was a huge success in glorious sunshine today as nearly 1,300 walkers trekked their way around the Island's shoreline, beginning before dawn had even broken.

The youngest person to complete the walk was eight-year-old Sam Sterry, from St John's School - equalling the record for the round island challenge.  

Walkers galore reached the finish line at the Elizabeth Harbour, with John Hickling first to complete the trek in seven hours, 49 minutes 43 seconds. 

“I ran some of though and walked parts as well,” said Mr Hickling. “I loved it. I couldn’t help running bits though. I think it is a fantastically organised event and it’s a superb day every year in Jersey’s calendar.” 

Pals John and Mick finished 1,210th and 1,211th, completing the walk in just under 13 hours.

Mick said: “We give each other a size ten up the derriere if we are wilting a bit. It’s a lovely atmosphere, is well organised and you get to see all the amazing scenery throughout the island. 

“Now it’s time for a beer and a very little walk, just to ease the bones a touch.”

Now in its 26th year, the round island walk is established as one of Jersey’s premier fund-raising events.

This year there were three categories: Main Walk (48 miles) – for those who relish the whole experience; Lieutenant Governor's Challenge (10.9 miles) - ideal for those with young families; Relay (48 miles) – for teams of four to take on the main walk. 

Finishing line organiser Annette Blanchet said: “It is a tough walk for those who do the whole 48 miles and even the ten miles-plus is a big challenge, but thankfully we have only had sore feet, blisters and lots of free massages in the finishing tent. 

“I don’t think St John’s Ambulance have had to give out anything major other than lots of TLC - tender loving care - to some very tired walkers. I think a lot of cups of tea are going to be consumed and probably the odd glass of beer.”  

Since its inception more than 20,000 walkers have raised over £2,077,000 with every penny raised by walkers distributed to local charities.

Ms Blanchet said: “This year’s charities are the Jersey Cheshire Home, to buy a new hydrotherapy pool, Durrell and St John’s Ambulance. We also have a dozen other smaller contributions to other charities. It’s very good to know the monies raised will go towards local charities.

“Hundreds of volunteers have helped out, making this a terrific day for everyone. And the weather has truly smiled on us.”   

Many islanders slipped out of bed and into walking shoes – in the dark – this morning as the coastline challenge started at 3am at the harbour.

Rita Hill’s friend inspired her to do the walk 19 years ago and she has never looked back.

Ms Hill said: “We had no training back then, nothing. We just went out and did it. After doing it the first time I thought to myself ‘next year I’m going to do it again.’ And I’ve done it again and again.”