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Coast to Coast
Flying the flag 100 miles across Devon!
Ultra marathon challenge!
The Devon Coast to Coast is revered as one of the finest long-distance routes of the UK National Cycle Network, running from Ilfracombe to Plymouth, and keen supporters, Wayne and Ricky have decided to take on the challenge to complete the 100-mile route in aid of Devon Mind.
Who?
Wayne Kirby, Head of Services at Devon Mind
Ricky Callow, local PT, Owner of RC Coaching, and supporter of Devon Mind
Where?
Starting at Ilfracombe running across the county to finish on Plymouth Hoe.
What?
3 ultra marathons in 3 days across the county to raise funds and awareness within the local communities we provide support.
When?
Friday 14 March, Saturday 15, & Sunday 16 March 2025
Why?
Wayne Kirby — “I have worked for Devon Mind now for just over 2 years, and I’m extremely passionate and motivated to try and raise awareness of how connection can promote positive wellbeing in us all and how physical movement, particularly outdoors can invariably make us feel more positive. I am approaching this challenge with a lot of trepidation, however having worked alongside many people that access Devon Mind support, I am reminded how they have overcome immense challenges with such bravery and determination, something I intend to try and replicate for this challenge. Having drawn inspiration from numerous people over the years many of whom have been through various adversities in life, I am a firm believer that we can achieve great things when we put our minds to it.”
Ricky Callow — “I have worked with and been a supporter of Devon Mind for many years. Mental health affects us all and for many, the struggle is silent but overwhelming. I’ve been there myself, trying to navigate through various hardships, from being 20 stone and struggling with my weight to then dropping to 9 stone and struggling to put on weight, eating disorders, and feeling lost with no direction. The journey was tough, both physically and mentally. Now, as a personal trainer and business owner, I’m passionate about helping others, not only to improve their physical health but also to strengthen their mental well-being and open doors to a new self. What drives me is helping people realise that a simple change in their mindset can open so many doors to what they can achieve, all whilst being the same physical person. That’s what I want people to take from this… we can do anything”.
The details:
Day 1 — Starting at Ilfracombe they will run to Braunton and then join the Tarka Trail, which will then take them through Barnstaple, Bideford, and then to Great Torrington to rest up for the night.
Day 2 — Continuing on the Tarka Trail, leaving the official trail for a short period at Petrockstowe, to run through Highampton, Hatherleigh, and then Okehampton. At Okehampton, the route joins the Tarka trail again for the final stretch of day 2, 11 miles of predominantly uphill to Lydford, where they will be stopping for the night.
Day 3 — Fighting against the aching legs and body, they will continue on the Tarka Trail passing through Mary Tavy, Peter Tavy, and on to Tavistock, where the route then joins the Drake Trail. The trail climbs up past Horrabridge and onto Yelverton and then downhill from this point along the old railway path towards Plymouth, completing the 100 miles on Plymouth Hoe.
