Half Marathons in South West

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  As a new runner and being born and bred in Tewkesbury I was really excited for this race, especially as I was offered the chance to take in the scenery and pace 2hrs.upon arrival I was disappointed that they had messed up the orders and was left with a 10ft flag to carry (needless to say I dropped it after mile 2)the course was a little disappointing and there were long stretches with poor scenery and no support however the organisation was great. The new finish in the high st was a massive highlight and I would deffo recommend this course for first timers and PB chasers alike

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  And so, after a surprisingly decent time in Taunton on the back of a dirty hangover, the bandwagon moved onto Tewkesbury. I signed-up for this race for a couple of reasons really. 1. It’s only 40 minutes from home and, 2. It was the only ‘major’ half marathon or marathon I hadn’t run in my adopted county of Gloucestershire. I’d previously run the Gloucester Marathon and Half, Cheltenham’s Half, The Forest of Dean Half and the Stroud Half, so this would complete the local ‘Olympic Rings’, as I mentioned to a local running friend the day I signed up!After researching the race, I learned of its longevity (this was the 38th year of the event) and support it has gathered over the years. Tewkesbury is an attractive medieval market town standing on the confluence of the rivers Severn and Avon and, as a result, suffers terribly from severe flooding, which on occasions has come perilously close to swallowing up the famous Abbey!I felt I was in reasonable shape come race day and wasn’t carrying any muscular aches and pains for the first time in months, so on the basis that the course was ‘flat and fast’ as every race claims to be these days(!) , I was hoping to post a decent time.Waking early on the Sunday morning, the weather was beautiful and perfect for running – cool, sunny cloudless skies and no wind. My only concern was that the temperature was threatening to reach 16 degrees by 11am, which didn’t fill me with joy as I’m an awful warm weather runner. I literally fall apart as soon as temperatures reach double digits; which is probably why I usually post my best times between October and March!Race HQ was at the Leisure Centre, which meant that parking wasn’t an issue (the local sea cadets marshalled the parking across an extensive grassed space) and the tents to pick up the race numbers and drop-off bags was literally a stone’s throw from the car. There was good ratio of toilet cubicles to runners on site (no urinals though!) which only meant that people were only having to queue at peak times for about 5 minutes max.Whilst the ‘village’ was a hive of activity, with a number of stalls selling anything from coffee to running essentials, the race itself started about a 10 minute walk back the way I’d originally driven into Tewkesbury, with everyone gathering in a pub car park by the start line. The road is a major route into the town, and given that the organisers needed to temporarily close this – as the route would take runners back the way they’d just walked towards the town centre – the closure and start needed to be a fairly slick operation in order for the road to re-open again as soon as possible.Under bright sunny skies and with temperatures increasing by the minute, the road was closed at 9.58am and the starting gun fired at 10 sharp! There were a couple of pacers from Hucclecote Harriers (a Gloucester-based running club) running 1.45 and 2.00 target times, but given that I was hoping to run quicker than 1.45, and with no 1.40 pacer to offer any support, I figured it would be best to head out at a reasonable pace and see how I felt.The first couple of miles went fairly smoothly and I found myself running at around 7.40 mile pace, which, at the time, felt fine. The route (as mentioned earlier) took us back towards the leisure centre and then through the town before running out onto a main road.At this point, the route wasn’t particularly exciting and often laborious in places as we continued along the main road which took us out of Tewkesbury, before entering an industrial/retail estate with clusters of residential housing on route. I must admit that I didn’t enjoy this section of race and found it hard going and not particularly inspiring.At mile 3, I latched onto a couple of guys who were looking for a 1.40 finish. One appeared to be pacing/coaching the other, and whilst I felt fairly good, I thought I’d sit with them and see how things progressed. Mile 3 was a 7.27 which, in the heat, I found tough going but went with it. We went through 4 miles at 7.35 and I was now beginning to struggle with the heat and found myself taking on water at every opportunity, which is unlike me in a race. With little shade and temperatures rising, I knew that I couldn’t keep this pace up, so dropped off to try and consolidate some energy…as there was still around 9 miles to go!As we left the industrial estate and re-joined the main road, I was beginning to struggle badly. At mile 5 my pace had dropped to 7.59 and people were overtaking me with ease! After about half a mile further down the road, we turned left again but onto a more rural road that appeared to head out into the countryside and towards the villages that had been mentioned in the race description.Whilst the scenic and rural countryside was a welcome relief from the monotony of the estate and main roads, the heat and lack of shade was doing me no favours whatsoever. I went through miles 6 and 7 at a shade over 8 minutes, which wasn’t a good sign so early in a race and meant I was slowly fading…and still had half the race to go.I remember thinking at this point that the race was written-off already and even an energy gel couldn’t get my legs motoring! I honestly thought I was going to run my worst ever Half time and was already mentally preparing to start training even harder the next day and never let this happen again. I’d been naïve and stupid to think I could run a 1.40 in these conditions and was now paying the price. I started to consider wearing extra layers of clothing on my training runs and thick woolly hats to try and get used to coping with warm running conditions! But, however badly I was running, I was determined not to let my spirit drop and to try and enjoy the rest of the race as best I could. It was now down to survival.Mile 9 was 8.50-something, which was now officially the slowest ever mile I’d ever posted in a Half Marathon! It was getting ridiculous, but I ploughed on.So. Here comes the bit you’ve been waiting for. The Comeback. The phoenix from the flames. The Rocky moment…After turning into a pretty village (which I confess I can’t recall the name of), the road flattened out and a decent headwind presented itself at just the right time for me. Whilst this is never a good thing in my book, it started to cool me down and the straight road was a welcome relief after the windy, undulating lanes, as it allowed me to build some momentum. Nothing great, but I started to slowly, very slowly, pick up the pace again. As I ran through another village, families and supporters were lining the route and handing out jelly babies and water to the runners. I started to high five all the kids (even babes in arms!) and began to personally thank ever person I ran past for their support and encouragement! It started to lift me and put the spark back into my legs. I was beginning to feel strong again.Whilst I knew a PB was way out of the question, my next thought was to the 1.45 barrier. That had been my Holy Grail for years and after finally doing it in Oxford in 2016 I’d then begun to set my sights on getting as close to 1.40…the elusive sub-100 minute club! I had run 4 consecutive sub- 1.45’s in a row and I wasn’t going to break that streak today. If I could run that time in these conditions and the physical mess I’d been in earlier, then it would be an indication that I was running well and had some strong reserves in the bank. If nothing else, a psychological victory! All I had to do was keep ahead of the pacer I’d seen at the start line and I’d get there!I posted a 7.58 at mile 10 and was getting quicker and now catching other runners. As we left the villages behind us, we encountered the ‘hill’ at 10.5 miles. After shouting my signature expletive (‘Oh for f*ck sake!)’ at the sight of any hill in a race, I put my head down and went for it! And at that very moment, the pacer came up alongside me! Eeeeeeeek! The only person in the whole race I didn’t want to see again today!Imran, the beacon of enthusiasm who was just about to take his ‘bus’ past me at the crest of the hill, actually kicked me into gear again and I suddenly found a third wind. We began to chat and it transpired that we ran in similar circles locally and had mutual friends who also ran. This helped to take my mind off the fatigue in my legs that was beginning to take its toll. I ran through 11 at around an 8 minute mile and some fuzzy thinking led me to believe that I’d have to run close to 7.40’s in the last 2 miles to achieve a sub 1.45.Mile 12 came and went, and as we passed the sign for Tewkesbury town centre, we hit a slightly downhill section, which prompted me to put my foot on the gas. Imran was fantastic and constantly encouraged me and the guys he had been running with throughout the race, willing them to keep with him as they were so close to achieving their goals.The high street was packed with supporters cheering and urging everyone along the home straight to the finish line. The atmosphere was electric and gave me the strength I needed to see it home to the tape. I even managed to smile for the camera, which is extremely rare!Upon finishing, Imran turned and ran back up the home straight to give other runners some final enthusiastic words of encouragement as ever second counted if they were to duck under the 1.45 barrier. A true inspiration.My final mile split was 7.38 and I came home in 1.44.14, which I was delighted with. Not a PB by any stretch, but if someone had offered me that at mile 7, I’d have bitten their hand off!After collecting my medal (which was fantastic), a commemorative tee-shirt, a bottle of water and a Twix, I made my way back to the leisure centre to pick up the car. It was still very warm, which made my time even sweeter and as satisfying as any PB I’d run in the past.Whilst there were only about 700 finishers, the event was magnificently staged and really well organised. I have to give a special mention to the marshals on the course who were exceptional and a credit to the town and event.Another great Half completed that I’ll never forget for so many reasons. Dealing with a warm day, tactical suicide, the marshals, the crowds through the villages, The Comeback, Imran and finally completing Gloucestershire’s ‘Big 5’ Halfs!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  Great event seeing the countryside around the town. Warm weather with little shade

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I arrived in the centre of Stroud an hour before the race started at 7am parking in one of the towns car parks which were free to park in on a Sunday and there were lots of them scattered around. It was a short walk to the start and the registration and I collected my race number no problem and without any waiting. 5 minutes before the start we were given a race briefing in a small courtyard before being set off.The course was beautiful and 95% trail, it took us through woods, across fields along foot paths and along the canal. It was a tough course with some killer hills but the views at the top of them were definitely worth the effort.The aid stations were very basic, offering water and towards the end bottles of sports drink, but the people running the stations were very friendly and super supportive.At the end I received a medal, finishers t-shirt and a goodie bag with drink, flapjack and crisps.I really enjoyed the challenge of the hills and the fantastic views that this race offered

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• M

  Mike H

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  Beautiful course but lacks proper signage and insufficient marshals throughout the route. More facilities needed at the start/finish.

  Read more

• A

  Amie F

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  Beautiful course, highly recommend. Lacked basic organisation though. Timing chip wasn't as per the information we'd been given, PA system didn't work so 10k and half marathon runners didn't know where they needed to be (started in different places). Started 15 minutes late so needed to use the loo by the time we set off. Lead rider tried to give brief to runners but didn't even have a loud haler (even park run can do that!). Water stops not well manned, people queuing for water and stewards kept putting their hands into the bucket to get the water out, not very hygenic. Very few Marshalls out on route (only a couple) and route very badly signed; at 10 miles lots of runners got lost as there was just one arrow pointed across a few fields but no path across and no clear exit. Relying on following other runners but can't tell if they are going wrong. Race distance also came up short.Feel the organisers cash in on the location but much better planning needed.

  Read more

• N

  Nathan R

  Did the 10k in 2018

  the route , as no marshalls present or directions on the course !

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  When I first signed up to the race I wasn't too sure what to expect as there wasn't any reviews or much information other than the description on the website.Communication was pretty good. race day instructions were only sent out a few days prior. I guess this is probably because of the variables in weather and route changes but some extra communication a couple of weeks prior would be nice but by no means a deal breaker. Directions to the start were very clear and parking was very easy.Registration and kit check went very smoothly . I would say that a coupe of extra toilets would have gone down well. But I was there early enough not to have to queue too long. Before the start of the race was a nice and short race briefing. They had explained some locals/walkers had removed some of the way markers for some unknown reason so and they were doing their best to make sure we didnt get lost!The race itself was amazing. The route was stunning. First following the River Erme up and down before meandering through some beautiful countryside and villages before dropping into Bigbury then running along the beach out to Burgh Island. There as a little welcome part there cheering us on which was nice as I felt pretty sapped of energy by that point after running for what felt like a couple of miles on the beach.After Burgh Island the real challenge started. The South West Coast Path out to the Mothecombe estuary crossing. The scenary was amazing but the temperature was also starting to rise and it felt tough. After the crossing there was another couple of tough sections of coastal path before again heading inland over some beautiful countryside before making our way back up the River Erme to the finish line.The reception at the finish was amazing lots of cheering and clapping. Just what you want after completing 46.4km with 1300m elevation.All in all I really enjoyed my day runing Race the Tide stunning route I don't think you could tire of. I thought the aid stations were well stocked and supported although I didn't use them to there full potential other than topping up my water/nutrition bottles. There wasn't much in the way of crowds/spectators around the route but for me I wasn't that bothered it was remote so I don't blame people for not standing in the middle of nowhere to cheer us on.Overall I thought it was well organised well. Marshalled and put together I would Definately recomend it to an new or seasoned trail runnerJust one addition I think would have added to the experiance is some sort of bar/food at the finish. I could have murdered a cider and a burger at the end.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  There are 3 distances to the Race the Tide events, 10K, 16 mile Half-Marathon and 29  mile Marathon, as you can tell this is a trail event where unusual distances are commonbut Pure Trail tell you the distances beforehand so you know what you are getting.The Pure Trail team are always very friendly and well organised, this is a must do event and I will be back next year, not sure which distance I will do next year, but this year it was the 16 mile option for me, which saw us head uphill from the start and within half a mile, wading through a very wet, muddy water section, which for me is great fun, then single track through woodland, before we crossed a bridige over the estaury and up into more woods, the following downhill through the woods was fast and fun, with estuary glances through the trees, soon we were at mile 6.5 and at the Erme Estuary, the tide was out but it still meant a run through some water, others walked I ran, splashing through the water, then it was a couple of miles of hilly coast path before turning inland through fields and country lanes, before we reentered the woods and had the pleasure of wading through the muddy water again, quick stop for some photos and downhill to the finish, where we got a fab medal and a well stocked finish line of goodies. Do this event!

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  nice route and well organised. Loved the feed stations thanks to all marshals.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  A lovely event held in a farm yard hq with plenty of space, portaloos and a pop-up cafe. Beautiful route through fields, woodland and farmland along tracks, trails and footpaths. A couple of minor signage issues which is forgivable for a first time event. Free photos, medal and good water stations. I will definitely be back for next year.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I'm not sure why the race is marked as "road" on here because it's anything but that. The Collingbourne half marathon is true trail race which is very well organised by a very friendly club. The terrain is technical in places with plenty of variety. So yes, I'll be back!

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• A

  Adrian S

  Did the 10k in 2018

  Nice flat fast course great for my first 10k

  Read more

• C

  Chris g

  Did the 5k in 2018

  It was exactly as advertised, flat and fast

  Read more

• S

  Sally A

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  It's hot, very little shade, nice and flat, so bring sun cream.Bring music if your running alone as the 2nd lap once the 10 and 5k have finished it's quite lonely.It's was my 1st 1/2 marathon.

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  The race started in front of Paignton Pier in front of quite a large crowd and then the route went to Torguay. The course is a 2 lap course which i never like but the event was well marshalled and supported. There was adequate water stations especially on a warm day with bottles of water given and energy gels later on. The course is a little bit hilly in places but enjoyable since you are never far from the Devon coastline. In conclusion a very enjoyable event and i will probabley do next year.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This was my very first Torbay Half. I had heard good things from friends who had run it in the past. And as they were running it again this year I decided to join them.Registering for the race online was easy. If you register with plenty of time the race pack is sent out to you.The event itself is well organised, the route is clearly marked and on closed roadsThe race starts in Paignton and you run once around the sea front before heading out towards Torquay. The course is quite undulated but the hills are not too steep so they are pretty manageable.I quite liked the approach into Torquay. Lots of support from the crowd and it was nice to see the big wheel in the background. Once around the big wheel you head back into Paignton. First lap done, ready to start the second lap. If you are not a fan of 2-lap races maybe this race isn’t for you. I know some of my running friends don’t take part simply because of this reason.The crowd in Paignton is out en-masse and they are really good at cheering you on especially when approaching the finish line.The finish line is by the sea. Not many races can say that. It’s great to take your shoes off and jump into the sea to cool off, especially on a hot day like it was this year. Having said that, my friends who have been doing this race for the last 3 years have said that it’s always been sunny and hot on race day.Nice medal, a good finisher t-shirt and a generous goody bag. All in all I think it is a great race and very good value for money – just over £20 if you are a UKA affiliated runner.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  On Arrival at Paignton station the start line is half a mile from the station next to the peir. Race village and bag drop right on the sea front. When race day come around you all called with plenty of time the start. On the off you have to run once around the sea front before heading out to of town towards Torquay.  There some nice hills to start but not to bad .You get a fast run in to Torquay, once around big wheel you head back to Paignton.  First lap done you repeat the lap. Its great running to the finish line you have so many  people cheering to the end. You get a great medal and finisher shirt and goody bag.  After race some great entertainment in the village and bars. Had great time jumping in to the sea to cool off. Paignton has lots of places to stay and lots of restaurants .Not a bad half  to do.

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• A

  Alice O

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  Very good race, really friendly atmosphere among the runners and supporters. Incredible route out in the country side, very different to most half marathons that are organised in cities. Very hilly course, so not a quick run but still very enjoyable if taking it at a slower pace.

  Read more

• H

  Hannah C

  Did the 10k in 2018

  Very hot.. very well organised... the locals where awesome too... hosepipes and water was a plenty all around the course.Thank you Frome you did yourselves proud... who knows might even do the Half Marathon next year!!Thank you

  Read more

• D

  Daniel P

  Did the 5k in 2018

  Didn't do it, and I'm finding this email very annoying. Thanks for reminding me I had to pull out

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• A

  Andrew D

  Did the Half Marathon in 2016

  Flat and fast - great for PBs!

  Read more

• J

  John M

  Did the Half Marathon in 2016

  This is a fast course with PB potential. It is well organised, with a handy bag drop and somewhere to hang out inside pre-race. The course itself is two loops but gives a decent balance of town and countryside. It's well supported in the town.

  Read more

• N

  Neil L

  Did the Half Marathon in 2013

  Race was great - managed to hit the 7:40 pace I wanted even though it rained and RAINED from 8am till the end... Loved the event and would do it again (will check weather next time!)

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  A very well organised event. For my first half marathon I thought it was a good location. Parking very efficient.

  Marshalls fantastic and a very good atmosphere

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• L

  Lucy J

  Did the Half Marathon in 2016

  I love a small race event, the atmosphere is so friendly, the organisation might not be quite up to the standard of the huge races, but that’s often what makes them all the more endearing.

  Read more

• J

  James S

  Did the Half Marathon in 2015

  A fantastic race. It could not be faulted. Excellent course, marshalls so friendly and supportive, the whole atmosphere was out of this world. Certainly a race I would do again and recommend. Thanks for such a nice medal and t-shirt. Well done everyone. One of the best races I have done in the 30 years I have been running.

  Read more

• P

  Paul F

  Did the Half Marathon in 2015

  It was an absolutely cracking run. Great value for money, excellent course and scenery. Great atmosphere, brilliant marshaling.

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  2018 saw my return to the Stroud Half Marathon 5 years from my last.
  The event is still a good half marathon with a great buzz for the Stroud area.
  What didn't go so well were the terrible toilet and bag drop tailbacks. This caused the race start to be delayed. Overall this was still a great event to do though parts of the course are on busy roads. It's also pretty flat, especially considering how hilly Stroud can be so that's a bonus if you're looking for a good time. Mention must go to the pace team who did a fantasitc job of helping many people achieve their goals. Finally the finishers t-shirt was top notch with a decent fit.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I've ran this race many times but for 11 or 12 years. The course was much the same except the first 3 miles which no longer includes a circuit of Stonehouse. The start was 15 minutes late due to chaos at the bag check, which they subsequently realised and vowed to change next year. I do like it when organisers admit they're wrong and want to improve. Once out of the town, the route is very scenic and beautiful on a sunny autumn morning. The medal was of good quality and a great tee shirt and I would definitely ran again.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  STROUD HALF MARATHON – Race Review – 22 October 2017I’ve wanted to run the Stroud Half for a number of years due to the fact that it is probably the most local Half to wear I live (prior to the recently established Gloucester Half, which was held in August 2017). Given that is was scheduled to take place two weeks after the Chester Marathon and I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to walk, let alone run, so decided to hold-fire and see how the legs were feeling the day after. Despite the fact I actually couldn’t walk the next day, I was still bitterly disappointed to find out that it had actually sold out! Great for the event, but not so for me! Not to be put off, I entered onto the reserve list and hoped that if I did get a last minute place, I’d actually be capable of running it!I did absolutely no exercise the week after the Chester, aside from booking an appointment with a local physio for this coming Wednesday. The hamstring issue had been going on for long enough now (since June) and I can’t continue to run on it for much longer without doing some serious damage. However, the week leading up to Stroud (still without a place), I did a few easy sessions on the treadmill at my local gym just to keep the muscles active and run-off the last of the aches and pains from marathon.To my absolute delight, I received an email on the Thursday before the race advising me that I had a place! Even though the hamstring wasn’t great, I felt that I needed to get out and exercise a few demons after the disappointment of Chester, so what better way to do it than out on the roads I’m so familiar with on my Sunday training runs. No pressure and no PB expectation. I was actually excited about a race for the first time in ages, as I’d started to fall out of love with my running over the last couple of months due to the injuries and pressure I’d heaped upon myself before Chester. I was actually resenting training programme and the need to bang out long runs, in pain, on a regular basis.My new, relaxed approach to road running allowed me to polish off a good few bottles of wine on Friday night and further quantities of wine and lager at a wedding reception in Cheltenham on Saturday night… So, feeling rather ‘unrefreshed’ as the alarm woke me at 6am on Sunday morning, I was soon sitting in a car park, still in darkness, at 7.30am, about a 10 minute walk from Marling School, which was race HQ for the day.  Being a late entry, I had to pick up my race number from the information tent first thing that morning. Given that it was still fairly breezy after Storm Brian with a distinct autumn nip to the air, the indoor changing facilities were a welcome bonus and were used by many of the runners participating. There was also a bag-drop (more of that later) on the playing fields and ample toilet cubicles. Having male urinals always gets a massive thumbs-up from me and means I (and many others, I’m sure!) can take advantage of them 3 or 4 times before the race without having to join the lengthy queues that start to form about half an hour prior to the start.The race is well-established and in its 36th year (one of the oldest Halfs in the UK, apparently), and is well supported by many of the local running clubs. There were large contingencies from Dursley, Stroud, Gloucester, Hucclecote and Kingsway all proudly posing for their group photos before the start of the race. There were also many like me who were keen to participate in what is seen to be a friendly and respected road race within the local running fraternity.As mentioned above, I had no strategy other than to enjoy the race and finish my season with a smile on my face. My only ‘plan’ was to run with the 1.45 pacemaker for as long as I could, and at the point my hamstring tightened up too much, I’d drop off and coast the remaining miles…however many that may be! I met up with a friend before the race who was looking at running c. 1.45, so he joined me in the pack of runners who were intending to closely shadow Michelle Balchin, a member of Cheltenham’s Almost Athletes, who was charged with getting the group round on time. No pressure then!  The race started at 9am sharp and conditions were almost perfect for running an autumn Half; 10 degrees with a breeze that didn’t feel as strong as the 16mph that had been forecast. As we moved away from the start line, to my (and everyone else’s) delight, Michelle treated us to a feast of music via a ‘sound system’ she was running with! She began with some Fleetwood Mac, before moving onto a variety of dance/pop, with a bit of Eminem thrown in for good measure! Michelle’s intention was to increase the tempo gradually throughout the race, keeping spirits high along the way, which it certainly did!The route effectively took us on the main road out of Stroud towards Ebley and then right into Stonehouse making our way along the high street, which was lined with enthusiastic supporters. Michelle’s mile splits were spot-on, ranging between 7.45 and 7.55 for the first 4 miles, and with this relaxed approach and some good tunes and laughs to keep us entertained, the miles flew by. Even the inclines on the country road out of Stonehouse towards Standish were made easy by the music and company who were riding the 1.45 ‘fun bus’!Mile 5 was run slightly quicker intentionally (7.36), to bank some time for the hill at around 6 miles, which was effectively a climb up to the Whitminster Inn, as Michelle’s plan was to approach it fairly cautiously to ensure everyone had fresh legs for the second half of the race. A section of mile 6 was tricky, as this was run on the busy and often dangerous A38, so the width of a cyclepath had been coned-off to provide the runners with a safe route up the hill. At this stage I was still feeling good and given that I was feeling no effects from the hamstring, took a gel and decided to attack the hill. As I moved away from the pack, I heard a few people comment that I’d likely tire myself out, but I was feeling strong and didn’t want to lose momentum by slowing down, so went for it! After all, that’s what hill training is for. Right? The ascent was brilliant, and reminded me of the Tour de France, as there were a large number of supporters at the top of the hill cheering, shouting and ringing cowbells. Just the motivation I needed! Mile 7 was an 8.07, and whilst it was slightly slower than those previous (which was deliberate), I knew that there were no more hills to tackle, so my confidence was still up. I was also conscious of the 1.45’s behind me, so I knew that if I couldn’t hear the music, I’d be running well and maintaining my form!The next mile (through Nupend) had a few inclines, and I went through at 7.57 knowing that there would shortly be a long stretch of dual carriageway back to Stonehouse (via the infamous industrial estate) where I could get into a good rhythm if the direction of the wind was kind. My plan was now to start reeling-in the runners I could see ahead of me, but balance this exuberance against running out of steam too early in the race as there was still 5 miles to go. Mile 9 was 7.46 (I was speeding up!) and I caught the pack I had targeted as we entered the industrial estate which was about a mile loop before getting back onto the main road. At the entrance to the estate a rock choir was performing well-known songs. They were amazing and definitely lifted everyone’s spirits! At this point, the faster runners were leaving the estate and I saw one of my daughters teachers (I shouted hi across to him, which took him by surprise!), who I know is very good runner, so I figured I was only a mile behind some decent guys! I caught more runners on the loop and was still feeling surprisingly strong and injury-free when I hit mile 10 and saw I’d run a 7.45, I knew at that point that it was (unexpectedly) going to potentially be a good day…unless the wheels fell off in the last few miles.As we left the estate, I said to a fellow runner that we just had a parkrun to go, and I think that motivated her into keeping alongside me, as I seemed fairly fresh and she was starting to tire so probably needed to be pulled along. I knew my form must be good as I proceeded (not deliberately) to accelerate away from her. She caught me again and I remember saying “I’ve got a Golden ticket today! I’m actually feeling amazing and on course for a PB…I’m sure it’s all going to blow-up!” She was fantastic (a Stroud Athletic runner) and told me I’d do great and just to go for it. Running is one of the few sports where participants actually encourage each other to do well…unless you’re at the very competitive end of the spectrum.Another 7.40-something(!), and I only had 2 miles to go as I turned left onto the Ebley Road, greeted with a tail wind of all things! This was certainly proving to be my day!  I was starting to tire now and was trying to deal with each mile at a time, knowing that if I ran this one fairly well, I’d only have one to go. As I approach the final mile I knew that a final push could get me close to my Brighton PB of 1.43.59, so mustered everything I had left to keep me moving towards my goal. The final mile was fairly lumpy, with some short, sharp inclines that were not welcomed when the legs are beginning to get heavy. The crowds on the side of the road were willing us on, shouting – “Only a minute to go!” and “It’s all downhill now!” which was great…even though it wasn’t entirely true!As I got to 13 and saw my mile time was 7.53, I knew I’d probably done enough. Then, as I approach the final slight incline going into the home straight, I looked down to see my time was registering something like 1.43.06, and at that point I instinctively threw my arms up, repeatedly punching the air! I actually jumped over the finish line in jubilation with a huge smile plastered across my face. Despite the disappointment of Chester, the last minute entry and the injuries that had plagued me for weeks, I’d, against all odds, beaten my PB by 38 seconds (on a longer course than Brighton too), with my official time being 1.43.21. The leg had held strong (although I couldn’t walk the next day as the hamstring had completely seized up) and running without expectation (and a slight hangover) had clearly worked!My friend came in about a minute later, which meant he’d ducked 1.45 too, which was a fantastic achievement, given that he’d been experiencing a few knee problems. However, the star of the show was Michelle, for getting me and the other runners on the ‘fun bus’ home as intended. She must have a built-in metronome to have been able to run such consistent splits! The music, the laughs and great pacing made this one of the most enjoyable Halfs I’ve run.The only negative was the bag collection tent. Once I’d picked up my medal and finishers t-shirt and made my way back into the school grounds, the queue was huge, and not moving. After a 20 minute wait (at this point I was getting very cold and uncomfortable) I reached the front. The scenes inside were chaotic. Runners had actually started entering the tent themselves to retrieve their bags, (which is potentially a security concern as people leave phones and valuables in their bags) with the mayhem resembling a blue-cross sale in a department store at Christmas. I fully appreciate that many of these people are volunteers and am truly grateful for the free time they give up for these events, but they had at least an hour and a half (before the first runners came in) to get a system in place that would allow them to hand out the bags far more quickly and orderly. I’m not sure if this happened in previous years, but it would be helpful if it could be improved, as it can often be cold hanging around without a jacket in late October.Aside from that minor grumble, it was a fantastic event and one the organisers should be proud of. I’m so grateful that I was able to scrape into the race by the skin of my teeth (so thank you once again to the organisers), not only to run a PB, but to also experience such a great local race that I’ll definitely come back and do again. Gloucestershire is establishing itself as a great county for road and trail running and there are some fantastic and innovative companies out there arranging some unique, and established, events. I’m probably biased since I ran well and live close to the route, but it’s probably the best small Half I’ve run to date in the UK; in terms of local support, the organisation, the volunteers and marshals and the fun, enjoyment and camaraderie that could be felt out on the course.

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2014

  Really well organised. Excellent race organisation and value for money. Amazing route

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  hard to find the pacers both 2017 and 2018, race start was easier to find in 2018. parking ok, easy to get out the town after the race, more water is needed after the bridge!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This was my first race! I really enjoyed it. Great organisation, brilliant marshals and volunteers and the local support was amazing too. The Itchen Bridge was my favourite part of the race. Fab medal and race shirt and a bonus banana at the end. Loved it!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This is the first time I have ran around Southampton do I chose the half marathon to gauge the route. Booking process & startI found the booking site easy to use and I later found out that entries could have been upgraded to the full marathon until 3 days before the event. This is the first event I’ve heard of doing this; a nice touch. The start was a bit weird, I didn’t know what was going on nor could I see the pacers. It was forecasted to be a hot day so I wanted to keep a pacer in sight so I kept to the plan without overheating. Turns out that the pacers were wearing an orange t shirt and they were all at the front to start. With the amount of people attending, I believe that the pacers should have been spread out amongst the crowd; this would have meant that the faster runners wouldn’t have had to weave past a few extra people whilst the slower pacers were getting into their rhythm.The route & raceThe route was quite undulating and had various interesting views including running through the football ground, Itchen bridge (twice!!) and a couple of parks which towards the end was a welcome bit of shade.Overall During the race I heard complaints from other runners that there were not enough water stops which I have to agree with. On a cooler day then the planned amount would have been fine but due to the temperature and the build up of heat from the previous days, an extra water stop or two should have been factored in. The mist machine on the course was a nice touch though.The locals were brilliant, and to the people with garden hoses and water guns, whoever you are, thank you!The medal was a good size and the T shirt was nice too.I would do this race again and maybe with a bit more training, may do the full marathon.

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Due to the Bath Half being cancelled because of the snow, I chose this race as an alternative race so that my training would not be wasted and so I felt that I had earned the generous sponsorship I had received. The two tunnels are a fantastic place to run, and as it was a very hot day the coolness of the tunnels was a hugely welcome relief! The route had more inclines than I had expected, but it was overall a fairly flat route. Great water/fuel stations and fantastic support from the marshalls and the locals.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Having completed the Bath Two Tunnels in February, i decided to run the 5km event again but this time in May.The Bath Two Tunnels is a fantastic run for all abilities with great support from spectators and organisers.I have entered for all 4 races in the series one of which is a 10km, entering the 10km i will be able to run through the second tunnel which is longer than the first tunnel and i can not wait.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  This is a realy interesting course, starting on playing fields before heading down onto the cycle path which leads you through two tunnels. The first is about a quarter of a mile long and the second about a mile.This was my second time running it, and I enjoyed as much as the first! The course gently rises for the first few kilometers before hitting the tunnels. Afterwards it's generally a gentle downhill until the 5k turn point.It's not a pb course i don't think, with a pinch point near the start that slows many to a walk as people filter through and the cycle track isn't closed to the public for the day so you will ncounter many a cyclist and walker on your route, which can be a bit of a squeeze in the tunnels, but nevertheless i really like the course and i'll be back for sessions three and four later this year.I mustn't forget the interlinking series medals too! I'm halfway to making a complete train from them this year :)

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  In all honestly, a great race, the difficulty of terrain made it hard for a first timer to be sure of hhere way at times but the venue is difficult. Safetly, roads wise was no problem but the goats trail can be treacherous, again that would take away the point of the course. Saying all that, me entering next year, definitely. Friendly people, great views on the course and the organiser was there to shake your hand at the finish line to congratulate and chat with all runners (very nice touch). The medal was not really advertised heavily so I did wonder but its a top quality medal and value for money on this course is up there. Very good race guys, brilliant. If you attend next year just dont expect a PB lol.

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I was blown away with the quality of this!!! The infrastructure and capacity is all there for this to become a huge event. Fantastic race village, gorgeous route, plenty of lovely marshals, all on closed roads with exceptional support from villagers and locals. Fantastic water stations (mini-picnic stations!), quality medal, decent t-shirt...... This is a tough marathon, with a fair bit of elevation but a joy to run due to the wonderful support. I would highly recommend it, and will be back for 2019.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  The good news is that due to UKA the race director can not add a few miles on like he likes to do in his own events.

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I did the Casterbridge Half. Starts from the same place as the full, but an hour later. What a race!  I've never run do many hills in my life. Definitely challenging but the scenery was amazing. Lots of local support in the villages and well marshalled. Mile 7 on the half/20 on the full takes you into the love station. Basically you run through a farm. In it is a band, free bar!, soft drinks, all types of nibbles and people hugging you with wet sponges to call you down! Probably spent a good few minutes here but I needed it. After that, more hills! The last few miles were hard. I admit to walking quite a bit. Massive hill in the last mile, then down hill to the finish. Cracking medal, technical t shirt and lovely party atmosphere at the end. Plan on doing it again next year, but I'll need to train harder!

  Read more

From the organiser

Reviews

• A

  Alice R

  Did the Half Marathon in 2017

  My first half marathon. Amazing!

  Read more

• R

  Did the event in 2018

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  After spectating the event for the last few years I am glad I finally took part.The weather has the potential to make or break an event. Luckily the weather was really nice, maybe a tad warm for a race, but the sunshine made running through the Hoe, Barbican and Saltram really picturesque.The Athletes Village is well organised and there’s the option of having a FREE pre-race or post-race massage offered by Marjon University.There were enough toilets which meant the queues weren’t very long. Maybe a few more would help shorten waiting time, but it wasn’t a deal breaker. Maybe a few toilets on route wouldn’t be a bad idea, even though it’s only a half marathon.The race was brilliant and well marshalled. The course is a bit hilly – after all we are in Devon – but not too challenging. Some people don’t like the out and back along the Embankment. I didn’t mind it. It gave me the opportunity to look for my friends and cheer them on.The water stations – every 3 miles – were great and well manned. Maybe having a sport drink option half way would be a welcome added bonus.The finish is uphill and yes it can be tough but the support all the way from the Barbican to the Hoe was absolutely amazing.The medal and goodie bag collection at the end was well organised – as well as being given water and banana there was the option of collecting an energy drink too. The goodie bag itself was actually a drawstring gym bag which contained the event t-shirt, a chocolate bar and a packet of crispsI had a great time and I will definitely do it again next year

  Read more

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2016

  A stunning race with great competitors, scenery and marshals. Hate to ever miss it.

  Read more

From the organiser