EAST Lothian’s streets were pounded by thousands of runners yesterday at the Scottish Half Marathon.
Many incredible sights were to be had – including a runner in a bear costume, a squad in full military gear, three men running in underwear, a juggler and a world record attempt.
More than 4,000 entrants took on the 13.1-mile distance and faced a combination of sun, wind and rain showers along the way, while supporters lined the streets to cheer them on.
Incredible athletic performances were on display as tens thousands of pounds were raised for deserving charities, marking the 2024 event as a success.
The event's 10k started and finished at Musselburgh Racecourse, taking participants through Prestonpans and then back again, with a winning time of 32 minutes and 33 seconds posted by Julian Barrable.
The half marathon itself began at Meadowmill Sports Centre at 11am.
Hundreds of runners made their way along the A198 and through Longniddry before reaching the coast and making their way towards the entrance of Gosford House.
They then turned around and headed west along the coast road before reaching Cockenzie, and Prestonpans, before finishing at Musselburgh Racecourse.
Luca Fanottoli won the race in a time of 01:08:38 and Jessica Watson was first female (01:18:24).
Danny Gordon finished first in the wheelchair category in 01:08:52, while Joanna Robertson was just behind and crossed the line as the first female wheelchair competitor in 01:09:27.
Kevin Campbell was fourth, in a time of 01:11:19, despite wearing a full bear costume including a large head with eyeholes so that he could see the course in front of him – with neon running shoes finishing off the ensemble.
Collin Harrison, 47, took on the half marathon while carrying a bag weighing 100lbs on his back, and set a world record in the process. He beat the previous record time by over an hour and finished the race in 2 hours, 11 minutes and 38 seconds.
The former marine raised money for Royal Marines Charity and Children with Cancer UK.
Anyone inspired by the runners has plenty of time to train, with the 2025 event already scheduled for August 17.
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