Crowds line the streets as Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon returns

Crowds line the streets as Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon returns

Thousands of runners, volunteers and spectators came together in Ipswich today as the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon returned to the town, creating a fantastic celebration of achievement, fundraising and community spirit.

Participants of all ages and abilities took on the popular 13.1-mile challenge, with supporters lining the streets to cheer runners on throughout the course and help carry them to the finish line in one of Suffolk's leading mass-participation events.

As with all Run For All events, the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon was about much more than running. The event generated vital fundraising for local and national charities, with participants supporting causes close to their hearts, including official partner charities Autism Anglia, Ending Life's Taboos, Ipswich Town Foundation, Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Lighthouse, Ormiston Families, St Elizabeth Hospice, RSPCA Suffolk and Mind Suffolk.

The race got underway at 9.30am from the home of Ipswich Town FC, Portman Road Stadium, with runners setting off on a scenic route through the town. Participants passed some of Ipswich's best-known landmarks, including Holywells Park, the Ipswich Waterfront and the River Orwell, before returning to the stadium to complete their challenge.

A tremendous atmosphere awaited runners at the finish line, where participants collected their well-earned medals and celebrated their achievements with family, friends and fellow competitors.

Competition at the front of the field was fierce, with some of the region's leading athletes battling for podium positions.

In the men's race, Cole Gibbens claimed victory in a time of 01:08:13, followed by Brandon Barber in second place 01:09:30 and Sam Boreham in third 01:10:30.

The women's race saw Daisy Glover take top spot, crossing the finish line in 01:13:37, ahead of Lucy Daldry (01:21:27) and Elle Potter (01:22:56).

From local running clubs and schools to community groups, volunteers and entertainment acts, people from across Ipswich played a key role in creating the event's vibrant atmosphere. Their enthusiasm and support helped inspire runners every step of the way, contributing to a memorable day for everyone involved.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, said:"It was fantastic to see so many people come together for the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon and to witness the incredible determination shown by every participant who crossed the finish line today.

"Whether runners were aiming for a personal best, fundraising for an important cause or simply taking on a new challenge, they should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved. We'd also like to say a huge thank you to our volunteers, spectators, partners and sponsors, including Larking Gowen, whose support helps make events like this possible."

Becky Ames, from title sponsor Larking Gowen said, “We are thrilled to be supporting the half marathon again this year. It’s such an important and exciting community event, and a wonderful showcase for our town.”

“It’s always a real thrill to be there on the day, cheering everyone on, and it’s fantastic to see so much money raised for so many valuable local causes.”

Run For All and Larking Gowen continue to work together to inspire, motivate and empower people of all ages and abilities to get active, while delivering one of Suffolk's largest and most celebrated mass-participation running events.