There are just 100 days to go until the return of Wales’ Biggest Summer Half Marathon event, which promises to be the best yet! The Swansea University Swansea Half Marathon will take place on Sunday 9th June 2024 and this year will be the 10th anniversary of the inaugural event.
David Martin-Jewell founder and managing director of Front Runner Events said:
“We are all excited to host the biggest celebration of running our city has ever seen this June, for what will be a decade of this mass participation event for all. The Swansea University Swansea Half Marathon has come a long way since its debut back in 2014. It has been amazing to see the generations of runners coming through, and this year I will be in awe of those taking part who would have been too young to participate when it was first staged.”
Thousands of athletes, fundraisers, wheelchair athletes, plodders, and spectators are expected to fill the city in June for a festival of running. The event will incorporate a Team Challenge for organisations to go head-to-head, as well as the traditional Family Fun Run so that every generation can join in and enjoy the excitement of race day. What’s more, organisers have announced that to mark its ten-year milestone, a brand-new City 5 Miler + that will be staged on the same day, ensuring that race day will offer something for all abilities over this new distance.
The half marathon takes in some of the best sights of the maritime city of Swansea, home to the world’s first area of outstanding natural beauty. Starting at the gateway to the city underneath the iconic Copr Bay Bridge, runners will head out to loop around Swansea University’s singleton campus, then turn to make their way to the famous Brangwyn Hall. They will head through the city and pass the ruins of Swansea Castle, near Castle Square. Runners will then head towards the Waterfront Museum, and out toward Mumbles (passing the home of Welsh legend, Bonnie Tyler), whilst taking in the sights of Mumbles lighthouse in the distance. The turning point in the heart of Mumbles village will take runners onto the famous promenade (which was once the home of the World’s first passenger railway), once there, participants will experience the breath-taking views of Swansea Bay, and head back towards Swansea Arena for the big finish.
The Front Runner City 5 Miler + is just a tad over 5 miles and follows the first 4 miles of the half marathon route but will take runners over and through the iconic Copr Bay Bridge and back to the finish* (exact route TBC).
While in the Family Fun Run is a 2K route that starts and finishes at the official start line, allowing for a straight loop on Oystermouth Road, perfect for all abilities and babes in buggies.
With just 100 days to go until this much-anticipated event, organisers at Front Runner Events are encouraging everyone who is interested to secure their entry now as all races are expected to be a sell-out.
Tash Smith, Front Runner Events Race Director, said:
“As we gear up to stage our tenth-anniversary event, our team are working extremely hard to ensure that race day will be a day to remember! Whether you’re new to running or keen to start, #RunSwansea is for everyone so no matter your age or ability there’s an event for you!”
Over the years the Half Marathon has received quite a following with fans all over the world. Some of those include the #EverPresent gang who have participated in every Swansea Half Marathon since 2014. Organisers catch up with Abi Morgan, who is originally from Swansea but now lives in the Midlands. She’s one runner who makes sure she’s first to book entry and has even been known to re-book her holidays to accommodate the race! When asked what makes her return year after year, she says:
“Hiraeth! It sends shivers down my spine every year when I hear the national anthem being sung live before the start. I love the enthusiastic support, especially down at Mumbles. I always look up to see if Bonnie Tyler is on her balcony waving at us (and she occasionally is)! I still visit Swansea several times a year and the race really shows off Swansea at its best!”
Front Runner Ambassador and Swansea Harrier, Craig Jones is also an #EverPresent he added:
“I’m Swansea born and bred so it’s my home race, so it’s one I’d never miss out on. It’s great to have all the local support and people cheering you on. I love the course along the seafront which is a big feature of the race to take in the beautiful views. It’s a flat course too so I’m always hunting down a PB!”
Since the race first began in 2014 it has raised millions for its official partner charities and more for other good causes over the years.
Entry to the Half Marathon starts at £38 for affiliated runners and for a limited time, those interested can enter the Double Distance (incorporating the Great Welsh Half Marathon in Pembrey on 17th March 2024) for an exclusive price of £73 (aff) or £75 (n/aff). Whereas, workplace teams join in on the Corporate Challenge for £295 + VAT for teams of up to six people. The Family Fun Run starts at £10 per person with a family pass for up to 4 set at £24. Those looking to take on the City 5 Miler + can secure their place at prices starting from £21 (saving £5 off general entry prices for the first 100 people who enter, so you better be quick!).
To REGISTER your place at any of the races above, GO TO: https://www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk
