Crowds come out in full force to support the return of the Coventry Half Marathon

Thousands of fun-runners, fundraisers and club runners came together today to take part in the return of the region’s hugely popular Coventry Half Marathon.

Organised by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All, the UK’s largest not-for-profit events company, in partnership with Coventry City Council, the Coventry Half Marathon kicked off at 9.00am in the heart of the historic city centre.

Starting on Gosford Street, the 13.1 mile route headed out into the nearby countryside and out towards the Shakespeare’s County of Warwickshire, before finishing outside the steps of the stunning gothic Coventry Cathedral.

As part of the event, runners were encouraged to fundraise for their own charity of choice or one of the event’s partner charities. This year’s partner charities include; Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, Myton Hospice, Clothing Coventry, Sherbourne Fields School, RSCPA Coventry and District, Mind Coventry and Warwickshire, and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal. 

The Coventry Half Marathon highlighted the incredible communities in and around the city, from the spectators, running clubs, volunteers, schools and universities; all corners of the city came out to show their support for the event.

A huge standout moment of the day; a group of runners from a local youth club, Rising Stars joined the masses of runners alongside Abubakar, a wheelchair-bound member of the club. The team pushed Abubakar around the course, with the aim to challenge stereotypes around disabilities while raising much-needed funds to create a better environment for all at Rising Stars Youth Club.

The first male across the finish line was Jason Bennett in a time of 01:10:05, followed by David Brewis who took second place in 01:10:24. James Drakeford took third place in 01:10:31. 

Claire Jacobs was the first female across the finish line in 01:16:43 followed by Emma Styles who clocked 01:18:51 for second spot and Rachel Gifford who took third in 01:19:14. 

Commenting on the day, Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All said: “A huge congratulations to everyone who took part in today’s Coventry Half Marathon. We are delighted to be able to bring this much-loved event back to the city of Coventry.

“A truly spectacular day and an amazing atmosphere from start to finish, it was wonderful to see so many participants of all ages and abilities join us on the start line.

 “Whether it to be fundraise for a special cause close to their heart or to chase a personal best, we hope that everyone who took part enjoyed the day.

“The enthusiasm and support from everyone involved, from the participants themselves to the many spectators, sponsors, partners and volunteers, all ensured the day was a fantastic success.”

The event’s official sponsors include Coventry City Council, Arla Protein, High 5, Coopah, Marathon Photos Live, Coventry Runner and BBC CWR.

Entries for 2024 arent open just yet. Participants are encouraged to go to www.runforall.com to register their interest.