Runners cross the finish line at the Derbion Ramathon

Runners cross the finish line at the Derbion Ramathon

The streets of Derby came alive today as fun-runners, fundraisers and club runners, of all ages and abilities crossed the finish line at the newly named Derbion Ramathon and RAM 5 Mile – one of the region’s largest charity road runs.  

The Derby community came out in force to help make the Derbion Ramathon a brilliant success, with thousands of pounds raised for local and national charities. 

The city centre became a spectacle of colour as runners of all ages and abilities made their way around the course, cheered on by large crowds that contributed to the excitement and atmosphere.

With Ramathon boasting a city centre start and finish, runners of all abilities gathered in Iron Gate close to Derby Cathedral for the 9.15am start. The route took them through the city centre on to London Road and Shardlow Road, along to Elvaston Castle Country Park, through Alvaston Park, past Derby County’s Pride Park Stadium and back to Iron Gate for the big finish.

First across the finish line of the Derbion Ramathon was British Olympian, Ben Connor who romped to victory in a time of 01:03:00. Not only did Ben win the race in the quickest time, but he also set the new Ramathon and Male Run For All Half Marathon records. 

Anthony Woodward took second place in 01:10:23, with Mark Curtin finishing third in 01:16:31.

British long distance runner, Lily Patridge was the first woman home in 01:15:56. Not only was Lily the first female across the Derbion Ramathon finish line, but she also set the new Ramathon and Run For All Female Half Marathon records. 

Sarah Semmens clocked 01:23:48 for second place and Megan Rosier took third in 01:24:44. 

Today’s event also included the Derbion RAM 5 Mile. This event has been introduced with an aim to attract runners of all ages and abilities to the city centre, encouraging an even greater boost for charities and offering a fun and friendly route to inspire more people to get active. 

The 5 Mile race was won by James Meader in 00:25:55, with Ben Plummer second in 00:26:20 and James Gamble taking third place in 00:28:21.

First woman home was Judith Broadbent who clocked 00:33:53, Gillian Robson finished second in 00:35:28 and Lisa Jones was third in 00:35:53.  

The day also saw teams from across the region come together to take part in the all-new Derbion Ramathon Team Challenge; in which teams of colleagues, running buddies and friends came together to battle it out to be crowned champions. The results for this event will be announced soon.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Head of Events for Run For All, said: “The response to the Derbion Ramathon has been fantastic. The sun was shining and 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.

“We’d like to say thank you to all the supporters of this event, including Derbion, without who this event wouldn’t be possible. We’re already looking forward to our return to Derby next year.”

Adam Tamsett, centre director at Derbion, added: “Well done to everyone who took part in today’s Derbion Ramathon and RAM 5 Mile! Whether it’s your first race or your tenth, a personal best or not, every runner should be incredibly proud of their achievement.  

“The races really do bring the city of Derby together, and it was fantastic not only to be part of today’s celebrations, but to take part in the race itself and cross that all-important finish line!”

Participants raised thousands of pounds for charity by taking part in the Derbion Ramathon and RAM 5 Mile, including for the event’s partner charities – Children First Derby, First Steps, Rainbows, Annabel’s Angels and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal.

The Derbion Ramathon and RAM 5 Mile is supported by Derbion, Derby City Council, Active Derbyshire, High 5, Shokz and go puff, Water in a Box, Coopah, Derby Runner, Arla Protein and Marathon Photos.

The Derbion Ramathon and Ram 5 Mile will return to Derby on Sunday 4^th June 2023. Entries will be available to purchase at a 20% discounted rate for the next 24 hours only. To sign up go to http://www.runforall.com​