Superman was just one of many who took on the challenge of a 26.2-mile marathon run yesterday. (Picture by Tom Tardif, 0833637)

THOUSANDS of islanders turned out to support local events over the final bank holiday weekend of the summer.

Vale Castle was rocking as bands took to the stage for the Vale Earth Fair, a 12-hour music festival.

Earlier in the day the first Guernsey marathon in nearly two decades drew crowds to Foote’s Lane as runners set off around the 26.2-mile course.

Around 200 individuals started the full marathon yesterday morning, with 164 of those completing the race.

Sixty-three relay teams also took part.

Marathon of Guernsey Club chairman Peter Head was thrilled with the number of competitors . And although the dull holiday weather didn’t suit everyone’s weekend plans, he said it had made race conditions perfect.

‘It is ideal and will make it a lot easier for the competitors,’ he said.

Individuals, teams of five and one wheelchair user took part in the run, which it is hoped will now become a permanent fixture in the island’s annual sporting calendar.

The Mini Olympics at the Rugby Club kept Foote’s Lane busy all afternoon. It was the third year the charity fund-raiser has taken place, with the Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation benefiting this time. Teams competed in a series of crazy challenges and events, with one finally being crowned the winner after a Gladiators-style eliminator assault course.