RAYNET’s Role in Supporting the Kent Spring Marathon 2025
On Sunday 13th April 2025, the annual Kent Spring Marathon took place, drawing runners and supporters from across the region. While participants focused on reaching the finish line, a dedicated team from South Kent RAYNET provided critical communications support to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the event.
The Role of RAYNET
South Kent RAYNET, part of the national Radio Amateurs’ Emergency Network (Registered Charity No. 1047725), was tasked with:
- Providing reliable radio communications between outstations and central control.
- Facilitating coordination with Kent Emergency Planning and medical teams.
- Relaying important updates and instructions between race organizers and marshals.
- Monitoring the safety and progress of runners along the course.
Technical Operations
To achieve seamless coverage across the marathon route, the following setup was used:
- Frequencies in use:
- VHF: 144.775 MHz
- UHF: 433.750 MHz
- Control Station Call Sign: G1URG
- Talkthrough Repeater: MB9ABH
- Digital Medical Link: Enabled direct coordination with ambulance services
- Reporting Protocol:
- Routine messages unless marked PRIORITY
- First three male and female runners, and tail runner reported as seen
Deployment and Coverage
The RAYNET team established positions at strategic marshal points across the course. Each operator:
- Displayed official ID and wore RAYNET high-visibility clothing
- Maintained regular communication with Net Control
- Reported on runner progress and incidents
Key locations included:
- Control & Event HQ: Sandyacres Sports & Social Club (G8XCL, M1EGP, 2E0YPU)
- M5 / Medical 2: Westwell Ln / Gold Hill (2E0PBY)
- M13: Westwell Ln Triangle / Wootton Ln (2E0XFD)
- M16: Westwell Ln / Watery Ln (G6VUI)
- M18: Lenacre St / Sandyhurst Ln (G0UXG)
Medical and Emergency Readiness
One of RAYNET’s key functions was supporting the event’s medical and emergency response capabilities:
- Operators relayed medical assistance requests directly to control
- Medical teams and fixed points were coordinated in real time
- Digital radio link ensured redundancy beyond mobile networks
My Role: Station M13
As 2E0XFD, I was deployed at M13 near Westwell Lane Triangle, covering a section of the route. My responsibilities included:
- Logging runners and noting the tail runner
- Communicating any delays, incidents or updates to control
- Supporting local marshals with event coordination
Outcome and Reflections
Thanks to thorough planning and the professionalism of all volunteers, the Kent Spring Marathon 2025 was a smooth and successful event. RAYNET’s involvement ensured:
- Rapid information flow between remote sites and control
- Support for medical and safety operations
- Peace of mind for runners, organizers, and marshals
Join Us – Make a Difference with RAYNET
If you’re a licensed amateur radio operator, RAYNET offers a rewarding opportunity to:
- Serve your community at public events and emergencies
- Build your technical and operational skills
- Work alongside professionals and volunteers alike
Get involved today: www.raynet-uk.net
