‘Superman’ breaks marathon record

An Exmouth man has soared into the record books after becoming the fastest person ever to run a marathon while wearing a superhero costume.

David Stone, 41, ran this year’s London Marathon dressed as Superman, and completed the famous course in two hours, 42 minutes and 46 seconds to set the world record.

David, who lives in Normandy Close, had his achievement confirmed by Guinness World Record officials at the finish line, and was then interviewed live by the BBC.

Exmouth Harrier runner David was also the fastest runner wearing any sort of fancy dress on the day, and finished 214th overall.

David said: “This was my 13th London Marathon, and I normally just run in a vest and shorts and go for a fast time, but I decided this year that, since I’m not getting any younger or faster, it might be more fun to try for a record.

“I looked at the available records and thought that superhero had a nice ring to it, and I already had the costume.

“I got plenty of support on the way round, and by the end of the race my arms and shoulders was aching from waving at the crowd and doing Superman poses.”

Despite having fun with the crowd, David was careful not to lose sight of his world record target.

“Four miles from the end I was absolutely knackered, but I knew I was still on for world record pace, so I took on lots of energy drink and just went for it.

“It was getting really warm in the costume, but I kept going and managed to beat the record by 49 seconds.”

As well as trying to break the record, David, who works at Kings Garden Centre, was also running to raise money for Mill Water School in Honiton, which his bosses’ son attends.

“It’s good to raise money for a local charity because you know where the money is going. I raised about �200.”

David’s thoughts are now turning to next year’s event.

“Next year I might go for another costume because running in fancy dress was great fun. I might even go for another record!”