RunDevon 2023: Photographing a 92-Mile Charity Ultra Across Devon
The sun was only just rising over Ilfracombe on 9 September 2023 when the town filled with runners. It was the start of RunDevon, and I had the privilege of photographing the whole two-day, 92-mile journey, from the north coast to Plymouth.
About RunDevon
RunDevon is organised by Young Devon, a charity that supports more than 2,000 young people across the county every year. Every mile run raises money for vulnerable young people, so the finish line is only half the story.
There were five challenges to choose from, from a 9-mile run to the full 2-day Ultra. The courses crossed Exmoor and Dartmoor, with feed stations, support crews and checkpoints along the way.
Day One: Ilfracombe to Okehampton
Day one was a challenging 58 miles from Ilfracombe to Okehampton. Four runners took on the full 2-day Ultra, and I followed them along the trails, photographing their determination, the camaraderie between them and the stunning Devon landscape around them.
Day Two: Okehampton to Plymouth
Day two started at 7am in Okehampton, passing Lydford Gorge, Tavistock and Yelverton before finishing in Plymouth. I used my drone to capture the runners from above, small figures against the moorland.
More races started from checkpoints throughout the day – 34, 25, 15 and 9 miles – so by the afternoon, runners of every distance were heading for the same finish line, where families and supporters were waiting to cheer them home.
The weather didn’t make it easy. It was one of the hottest days of the year, turning a physical test into a mental one too. Every finisher arrived soaked in sweat and glowing with pride.
More Than a Race
Behind the lens, I saw much more than running: friendships, quiet moments of reflection and sheer joy. Devon’s landscapes were a beautiful backdrop, but the people – runners, supporters and the Young Devon team – were the real story.
By the time the last runners crossed the line, an incredible £19,001 had been raised. Thank you to every sponsor, donor and supporter who made that possible.
Need an Event Photographer?
I photograph charity events, sports and corporate events across Devon and Cornwall, on the ground and from the air. Take a look at my event photography and drone photography, call me on 07815 141779 or get in touch.
About Mike Lister
A Devon-based photographer specialising in weddings, commercial work, and drone photography. With years of experience capturing life's most important moments, Mike brings warmth, professionalism, and artistic vision to every project.
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