A record number of people took part in a recreation of one of the most memorable moments in cinematic history on Sunday.
Hundreds of runners resplendent in white t-shirts took to St Andrews’famous West Sands for the annual Chariots of Fire beach race.
Now in its ninth year, the extravaganza reflects the opening scene from the 1981 movie, which shows a parade of young men jogging through sand and surf in slow motion.
The start and finish of Sunday’s event was even accompanied by Vangelis’ iconic theme music.
The adult 5k race saw runners, many of them barefoot, take off along the long straight sands for 2.5km before turning and sprinting back to the finish line.
A piper accompanied them at the turn to keep spirits up.
Children aged 11 and under took part in a one-mile run and were rewarded with a medal and ice cream.
All proceeds from the event will go to the RNLI and to local charities, Families First St Andrews and Home Start North East Fife.
The prizes and post-race goodies were supplied free of charge by local businesses keen to support the fundraiser.
Organisers said this year’s race sold out in record time with people from across the world taking part.
In a statement, they said: “Thank you folks, your enthusiasm for this whimsical little race is what makes it so special and your support is what has allowed it to grow into the event it has become.
“More thanks will follow in the coming days but for now rest up, reflect on your achievements and thank you for coming.”
Chariots of Fire tells the true story of two young men training for the 1924 Paris Olympics: Eric Liddell, a devout Scottish Christian who runs for the glory of God, and Harold Abrahams, an English Jew who runs to overcome prejudice.
Pick up The Courier print edition on Monday for more pictures from the race
