Running challenge to 'iconic' off-shore tower returns

A "unique" annual running challenge over to a site off Jersey's coast is returning on Saturday.

The Seymour Sprint will see participants race 10km (6.2 miles) from Longbeach in Grouville to Seymour Tower and back, with the event being held in support of baby loss charity Philip's Footprints.

It is the seventh year in a row the event, which can only be held during a low spring tide as the tower is normally surrounded by sea and not accessible on foot, has been held.

Organiser Helier du Veulle said with the tower being so far away from the shore, the event provided a way for people to experience the site up close.

The event also has a walking version known as the Seymour Stroll and a shorter "dry feet" route for those who do not want to get wet.

Participants have 90 minutes to make it out to the tower and back, with children as young as eight allowed to take part with a parent.

Du Veulle described the tower as a "really iconic part of our island's history".

"You can only get there on a low spring tide," he said.

"That is the only time it's accessible to people on foot because of the danger of the gullies.

"So we have to time it to make sure it's safe as possible and to take advantage of the conditions we have here."

Having grown up on Jersey's east coast, Du Veulle called it "a gorgeous, gorgeous part of the island".

The Seymour Sprint was only ever meant to be a one-off, but Du Veulle said the reaction to it had seen it endure.

He added: "People come as families, they do it with the strollers, they bring their dogs.

"It just makes it a really great event."

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