Women taking part in this weekend’s female-only marathon can also make their mark for charity by donating their old bras to help others living in poverty.
The Women Can marathon returns on Sunday, taking runners and walkers along more 26 miles of East Devon’s countryside.
Sidmouth Running Club member Claire Ashby has organised the collection for Zabra, a charity that sends t underwear to women and teenagers in South Africa living below the poverty line.
Through a friend, she read about the charity’s work including an instance where the bra donations had helped young girls play sport.
Claire said: “I am running the marathon and felt that this event would be a perfect opportunity to publicise the charity and collect bras for them at the same time.
“The charity provides bras to women and girls in South Africa who would otherwise be afford them. The marathon is showing what women can do in sport and in normal life.”
Participants and spectators can leave their bras at a collection point around the marquee on Tipton Playing Field, where music and food will be served.
The mum-of-three added: “I am looking forward to running through our beautiful countryside and enjoying the festivities. I’m not trying to get the fast ever time but I am looking forward to being part of the day.”
The race started last year to mark the 50th anniversary of the first ever woman to complete the Boston Marathon. This year, each participant will receive a double-sided medal which marks 100 years since women won the right to vote.
Marathon organisers have also committed to reduce the amount of single use plastic at the event by teaming up with Sidmouth Plastic Warriors and South West Water.
During its inaugural race last year more than 3,000 bottles of water were handed out to help runners stay hydrated throughout the 26 mile course.
Participants are being encouraged to bring their own refillable bottles which can be filled up at water stations along the course or water tankers at the start and finish line.
Walkers will set off from Tipton Playing Fields at 8am and the runners an hour later.
To find out more about Zabra or donate visit https://www.facebook.com/AfreeBra/
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