Edinburgh Marathon

Summary

Scotland’s premier road race and the second largest road race in the UK
EuroMat® used in May 2010 to provide a safe, stable running surface for the finishing stretch which would accommodate 20,000 runners
Protection of Musselburgh Racecourse, the race finish line, from more than 20,000 runners

Problem

Edinburgh Marathon required a product to cover and protect the 400m finishing stretch at Musselburgh Racecourse. The product was required to provide a safe, non-slip, effective running surface (particularly in the event of wet weather) for more than 20,000 runners whilst providing overall protection for the racecourse grounds.

Edinburgh Marathon track providing access for runners to the finish line at Musselburgh Racecourse

Solution

Zigma Ground Solutions provided the event with the EuroMat®, Europe’s leading ground protection and temporary access mat. Approximately 2,000m2 (about 700 EuroMat®) were installed by Beaver 84 to provide a safe, secure running surface. The mats were held in place by 2 and 4 way connectors, as well as u-pins and quick fit connectors. This ensured the EuroMat® was installed quickly, efficiently and correctly with no movement – an important consideration given the pounding from many thousands of feet running over the surface.

Edinburgh Marathon runners running over the EuroMat at the finish line

Verdict

Approximately, 25,000 runners, including those competing in the Scottish half marathon, completed the course and passed over the mats in the home stretch of the race.