Church weddings are so last year. This couple decided to be different, and prove that they were in it to win it by getting married whilst running in one the biggest off-road marathons in the UK this past weekend.

Luretta Spearing and Jon Sharkey  from Dorset, UK, met through their shared love of long distance running. They have been together for six years, and have a child together. When they initially got engaged, getting married whilst running a marathon was not a thought in their mind.

“We were engaged for over a year before a conversation one evening led us to question if it would be possible to get married mid-marathon.” Luretta told The Argus UK ahead of the wedding. “I had already entered the Beachy Head Marathon as it is one of my favourite marathons, so we thought it would be a good choice.”

“We wanted our wedding to be about us, and what better way than doing the thing we both love.”

Within three days, all enquiries were made and everything was arranged.

The Eastbourne Beachy Head Marathon is one the biggest off-road marathons in the UK. Formerly known as the Seven Sisters Marathon, it is popular for its scenic and challenging route through the South Downs National Park countryside.

The marathon covers a 26.2 mile (42.16 metre) course that includes over 300 steps and 14 gates, passing through Jevington, Alfriston, Litlington, Friston Forest, the Cuckmere Valley and Seven Sisters, including Birling Gap and Beachy Head.

The marathon saw 3000 entries, some of which included friends of the engaged couple.

“We thought we’d have a quiet wedding but many friends decided it would be fun to join us so we’re really excited to be celebrating with our closest family and friends,” said Luretta.

On marathon day, the couple paused at the 9.5 mile point to hold the ceremony. Once the ceremony was over, they continued the race as man and wife. They celebrated their nuptials and relaxed their legs at their wedding reception the same evening.

And they say that love isn’t a race.

Image: Matthew Harmer