Southend-on-Sea (UK), Oct 25 (AP) 100 athletes had the chance to take part in one of the most unique marathons, an event held over the sea on the longest pier in the world.

Southend Pier stretches 1.34 miles (2.15 km) into the Thames Estuary, a feature that has put Southend-on-Sea on the map as well as into the record books.

Also Read | PAK vs NZ Preview: Likely Playing XIs, Key Battles, Head to Head and Other Things You Need To Know About T20 World Cup 2021 Match 19.

As well as the monotony of running up and down the wooden pier 11 times, the athletes on Sunday also had to battle fierce winds on a warm, sunny day at the Southend Pier marathon.

At the end of each lap the runners collected a band to prove their progress - quickest to collect all 11 was Toby Draper, a 49-year old teacher who led from start to finish.

Also Read | Afghanistan vs Scotland Live Score Updates of T20 World Cup 2021 Match 17: Catch Live Score Updates, Commentary and Full Scorecard of AFG vs SCO Cricket Match.

Draper, crossed the line in a record event time of 2 hours 7 minutes and 33 seconds, a staggering ten minutes faster than second placed Rodrigo Santos from Portugal.

At the end of the 26.2 miles, runners were treated to a medal and a traditional seaside stick of rock. (AP)

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)