Battle of the businesses! Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon Corporate Challenge returns for 2026

Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All is calling on local businesses and organisations to step up, get active and join the 2026 Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon Corporate Challenge, as the popular workplace competition makes its return this year. 

The Corporate Challenge once again invites teams from across the region to come together, support staff wellbeing, and enjoy a healthy dose of friendly rivalry. Teams of four or more will compete not as individuals, but collectively – racing to achieve the fastest combined time and be crowned the 2026 Corporate Challenge Champions. 

Taking place on Sunday 27th September, the Corporate Challenge will run alongside the main Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon. Open to organisations of all sizes and abilities, the Corporate Challenge aims to inspire teamwork, boost morale, and encourage participants to embrace a more active lifestyle as they train together towards a shared goal. 

Corporate Challenge entrants will also enjoy a range of exclusive benefits, including race day kit, bespoke team t-shirts and prizes for winning teams. 

Runners will once again take on the popular route starting and finishing at Portman Road Stadium, home of Ipswich Town Football Club. The course guides participants through many of Ipswich’s landmark locations, including Ipswich Waterfront, Holywells Park and alongside the River Orwell.  

As with all Run For All events, participants are encouraged to raise funds for a charity of their choice or support one of the events partner charities: Ormiston Families, Ipswich Town Foundation FC, Autism Anglia, Suffolk Mind, RSCPA Suffolk or the Jane Tomlinson Appeal.  

Ipswich-based accountants and business advisors Larking Gowen continue their longstanding support of the event, returning as title sponsors for this year’s marathon.  

Additional event sponsors include Ipswich Borough Council, BBC Radio Suffolk, Ipswich Town Football Club, Ipswich Fit, Ipswich JAFFA Running Club, Arla Protein and COOPAH. 

Ian Fitch, a partner at Larking Gowen, commented: “We are incredibly proud to support one of the biggest community events in our town. While the promotion of health and wellness is a key focus of any marathon, (and as an avid runner, I fully appreciate the benefits of running) this event is also about fostering community spirit.  

He continues: “It provides opportunities for the community to volunteer, money is raised for so many fantastic local causes, and it brings people together as enthusiastic supporters along the sidelines - a vital boost for any runner!” 

Siobhan Curtis, Marketing and Communications Director at Run For All said, “We are delighted to be bringing back the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon Corporate Challenge this year, following its successful launch in 2024. 

“This challenge provides the perfect opportunity for businesses to come together for some friendly competition while promoting the benefits of fitness and an active lifestyle. It also fosters camaraderie as teams train and work towards a shared goal. 

“A huge thank you to Larking Gowen for their continued support of the Ipswich Half Marathon. Their commitment plays a key role in making this event such a success.”