ALTRA Yorkshire Marathon Festival record breaker: Two course records were broken in a standout display of athletic excellence

Two course records were broken in a standout display of athletic excellence

Thousands of runners, volunteers and supporters filled the streets of York this morning, for the 2025 Altra Yorkshire Marathon Festival, marking a landmark year as Altra took on the title sponsorship for the first time. 

The Festival, which featured the full 26.2-mile Marathon, 10-Mile and Relay event, delivered an unforgettable day of personal triumphs, community spirit, and celebration of the North’s love of running. 

More than 10,000 participants took to the historic streets of York, completing one of three events. The community of York, and beyond, came out in force with runners travelling from across the globe to participate, all united by the spirit of Yorkshire on the day. From elites to first time runners, wheelchair participants, charities, volunteers, schools and spectators, everyone enjoyed the region’s rich landscape and culture. 

The Marathon Wheelchairs kicked off the day at 09:15, with the main field of Marathon and Relay participants shortly after at 09.30, embarking on their 26.2-mile challenge, starting at the University of York and heading into the historic City and out into the countryside before looping back towards the University to cross the finish line and receive a bespoke and well-earned medal.  

Edward Buck claimed victory in the Altra Yorkshire Marathon with a time of 02:18:15. Rob Corney claimed second in 02:20:15, while third place was Thomas Cornthwait with a time of 02:23:46. 

In the Women’s category, Heather Townsend claimed victory with a time of 02:38:58 - a course record for the Altra Yorkshire Marathon 26.2 mile route.

Melissah Gibson finished second with a time of 02:43:03, while Alice Lambert claimed third with a time of 02:45:00. 

In the Marathon Wheelchair field, Catriona Johnson crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 03:28:09. 

The 10-Mile participants, set off shortly after the Marathon, with the wheelchair at 10:00 and the masses at 10.15, covering much of the same scenic route over a shorter distance. 

Samuel Roberts claimed victory in the Altra Yorkshire 10-Mile with a time of 00:49:33, a new course record.

Liam Johnson was second taking 00:51:51, while third place was Kieran Walker with a time of 00:52:23. 

In the Women’s 10-Mile, Katy Wood took the title with a time of 00:56:55. Gabby Tofig finished second with a time of 00:59:04, while Charlotte Knowles, third with a time of 00:59:11. 

In the Relay, participants worked together, each completing a leg of various distances to complete the full 26.2-mile distance of the marathon and crossing the finish line together. 

A plethora of teams took part in the team initiative this year, showcasing an abundance of camaraderie and teamwork, whether with colleagues or friends, adding a social aspect to running. 

Rob Herdman, EMEA Head of Marketing, said: “Today has been a true celebration of what running brings out in people — determination, connection, and joy. From the incredible athletes on the course to the volunteers and supporters lining the streets, the sense of togetherness was inspiring. We’re so proud to have been part of it and can’t wait to return next year.” 

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, said: “A massive well done and thank you to all participants who joined us for the Altra Yorkshire Marathon Festival, whether they took part in the Marathon, Relay or the 10-Mile. The atmosphere here has been incredible, and it’s been a fantastic day of running and fundraising for participants of all abilities and ages. 

“The enthusiasm and support, year on year here in Yorkshire, from everyone involved is fantastic, from the participants to the many spectators, sponsors, partners, charities, volunteers – everyone ensured the day was a great success and was enjoyed by all. We’re thrilled to welcome Altra as our new title partner and look forward to building on this success in years to come.” 

The Yorkshire Marathon has continued to highlight the incredible passion and communities in and around Yorkshire since 2013 and marks some incredible achievements of participants that have crossed the finish line. 

This year’s Altra Yorkshire Marathon was supported by Altra, Arla Protein, BBC Radio York, City of York Council, Coopah, Erdinger Alkoholfrei, Gradwell, High5, JogOn, Marathon Photos Live, Project Servator, Shokz, University of York, Up & Running and York Sport. 

BBC Radio York is the official media partner for the event.