Half Marathons in West Midlands

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

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• 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!

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

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

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From the organiser

Reviews

• D

  Daniel H

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  people have left reviews about this being a flat course, which it is, well relatively! there are 2 quite steep small hills to which the decents are pretty short, and for the rest of the course it felt like I was continuously running up hill with long very gradual inclines. maybe just me, it was quite hot too , but just don't expect a totally flat course

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• D

  David O

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  Very warm but a nice run. Atmosphere was ok, but most crowds had cleared when the half marathon runners had finished.As an overall run, I'd say 8 out of 10

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• J

  Jaime H

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  Very hot day but plenty of water stops and great support.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This run was a well organised, very scenic and friendly run. Organisation was great, pre run details sent out were spot on and precise. The drink stations on the way round were plentiful for a very hot day. The local scouts were running one of them and they were great and encouraging. There was also a sponge stop too which I was very grateful for.The run is not on closed roads, however I did not feel unsafe at any time. They are rural roads, the marshals were plentiful and they were giving plenty of warning about both cars and runners as needed. There is a cut off time of 3 hours for the run. There was a fab medal at the end and I did need to see the first aiders at the end who did an amazing job.2 small problems:there was a timing issue so the results were late coming out and then there were some discrepancies. However a quick email and it was quickly rectified. All the photos are free to download, however if you are a slower runner there isn't many photos and none at the finish line. The person who finished about 2 mins in front of me was the last person to be photographed. I finished in 2hrs 40, well within the time limit.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  Nice, flat course. Easy to get to, we'll organised and a great medal!

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• A

  Adrian S

  Did the 10k in 2018

  Nice flat fast course great for my first 10k

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• C

  Chris g

  Did the 5k in 2018

  It was exactly as advertised, flat and fast

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• 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.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• J

  Jonathan S

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  Atmosphere and crowd participation was fantastic, weather was too hot but if you have a race in July that is to be expected. Forty minute delay was very disappointing, people who don't mind the heat will forgive that as it was the first event but not if it happens again. My son , daughter and myself all measured over 13.1 miles ( our sat navs had it 13.17 to 13.20 miles) this is not a complaint I just wondered if you are confident you measured the course exactly.

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• P

  Paulina E

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  the race was delayed by nearly an hour which made the heat nearly unbearable during the long shadeless stretches. water was given in cups which is horrible as you can't carry it with you. but have to drink it on the spot. the first water station gave out water with a very weird lemony taste to it, without saying it maybe wasn't even water. the water stations with cups weren't great organised as people shouted last minute which side was water, which were sport drinks, but by then it was too late to get in lane. thankfully some visitors hosed us down so we stayed cool. the delay was a massive game changer causing lots of discomfort under the given (stable for weeks) weather conditions the race should have been cancelled. the delay caused parking fees as well.

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• G

  Geoff R

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This was a will-organised event which seems to attract a lot of local club runners. Going through the castle at the beginning is cool and the rest of the course is mostly an out and back along closed rural roads. There is a bit down residential streets on the way in and out of the town.

  It's a hilly course so not one for PB-hunters. Plenty of volunteers at the water stations and a heavy first aider presence.

  The medal was decent and chunky and we also got a reasonable long sleeved technical top.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This was the first time I had done this race as it formed part of my training for the Berlin Marathon which is 2 weeks later. It was easy to find not being local to Kenilworth and the race instructions had been sent a couple of weeks before indicating that all the car parks are free which is an added bonus. I arrived about 7:50 so about an hour before the race was due to begin and I managed to get the last car park space right in the town centre. My advice would arrive 20-30 mins earlier to make sure as otherwise, it could lead to time being wasted looking for a car parking space. Finding and getting my race number from registration was a breeze as it's at the local Holiday Inn which is situated near to the start of the race and right near where I had parked :)So the race began at 9:00 which is nice and early and with the weather being very hot it was nice to know that I would be done before 11:00 baring any disasters to myself on the course.It is an out and back course and I can only describe it as undulating as with every up comes a down. This is pretty much along the entire route so if you are after something flat then this isn't the race for you. I enjoyed the hills and being in the countryside it provided beautiful scenery with all the roads on the course being closed. A water station was every 2.5 miles and they were bottles, not cups!! A bonus for any race!You finish and start in the town centre and get a nice downhill sprint finish once you've rounded the clock tower. At the finish, I received two goody bags including the bespoke medal and a long sleeve technical t-shirt. Overall this was a really enjoyable race and well worth the £25 entry fee!

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  it wasn't until I checked my garmin post race that I realised there was no flat on this course... but it was epic!! From start to finish this was so wonderfully organised... loads of local club runners there which had the capacity to make Justin average non club running jo very scared... all I had to do was stay ahead of the hubby whom was going at the pace he would be pacing the GNR at to get a PB. Well I got so distracted by the course and the views I forgot about it!,  the stations were vottles not cups and cups and marshals great. the finish was lovely and the medal mint!! And a mars bar to boot in my goodie bag!, well done kenilworth running club!,

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• D

  Donna T

  Did the Half Marathon in 2018

  I wish we'd known how far the car park was away from the finish. I suffer badly with cold after a race and would have liked the parking closer to the finish.That is the only negative.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• G

  Gary K

  Did the Marathon in 2018

  Go to bed before midnight.Run more.

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• W

  William Roy G

  Did the Marathon in 2018

  I enjoyed this event, I know many people dont like laps as it can be boring, but it has its advantages as you nearly always have company, And easier to pace yourself, the only complaint the car park at 5 pound is a bit much, I managed to pay at reception, but was frustrated at the car park as a debit card was wanted to park as a runner I dont take my cards with me.

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• C

  Christopher W

  Did the Marathon in 2018

  Great organisation! Yes the course is a little dull BUT there were toilets every mile, a well stocked feed station with water, electrolytes and food every lap and the course was flat. Perfect for me as a first timer

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From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Good 1 lap course. Not enough fuel or water  good medal & t. Easy parking.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I entered the Worcester Marathon which was an easy process. On arival at Sixways Stadium, there was ample parking which was great and the build up was very good.We were shown to the start and I thoroughly "enjoyed" the experience though I found the hills tough on lap 2.Marshalls and volunteers were great but the crowds were very sparse. I probably saw no more than 200 people during the marathon itself. Running on lap 2 was quite hard on the mind as you were often running alone.Feed stations were good and the countryside was beautiful, very rural.The fInish line saw good support with a nice t-shirt and quality medal.For organisation and scenery, I would recommend the Worcester Marathon.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  A half marathon 2 days after my stag do in Vegas....The Start:We arrived in good time and car parking was easy. Plenty of toilets in the rugby stadium and a good size canteen that sold teas and snacks etc.The Race:The race started quite a bit later than its advertised time, apparently someone had messed about with the race signs during the night (idiots) but when it got going I enjoyed it. A busy congested start up a hill but it soon opened out. Not all the roads aren’t closed here so it could get a bit hairy and some drivers did get impatient so it wasn’t the safest race. I enjoyed the end in the rugby stadium and it was good to have the car parked so close. The finishers pack was decent, I really liked the t shirt and medal.My Summary:I thoroughly enjoyed this half, the weather was perfect which helped. Plenty of countryside and nice villages with friendly local support. I would definitely do it again. I ran with my mate Baz and I came in at 2:02, injury free and happy.

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From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Yet another very hot racing day in 2018. Could be a fast course in different conditions.
  Quite a lot of runners were struggling with the temperatures on this day - there was plenty of water, but there seemed a lot of areas on route with no cover - can't really be helped. Medical staff were needed for a few people and did a grand job as far as I could tell.
  Starting and finishing at Pride Park was a nice touch - the course went through the city for the first half, and the second half was more along the river, which was really nice.
  Free medal engraving was an added bonus and well worth queuing for.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Would do it again, enjoyed myself and the course

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  thought the second half of the route through Elvaston Castle park and along the river was very lovely and a nice change from the road. Great local support and very well staffed. A great experience for my first half.

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  So all week I was weather watching to see if it would be favourable or not at Coed y Brenin Forest Park in the Snowdonia National Park, well the forecast changed every day I looked so I really didn’t know what we were getting until the day, which was wet and enjoyable to run in at times.I arrived the night before to register and receive my race number and goody bag with tshirt, microfibre towel, torq gel and park information, I must say it was a good touch allowing registration the day before, it took allot of pressure off me on race day, which was fortunate because I was running behind.I got to the venue leaving myself 30 minutes before the start, normally I like to arrive about an hour before to grab a coffee and sort last minute preparations and warm up, but today I was a bit behind in my prep. We had to use the overflow carpark (As stated on the race instructions) with a 10 minutes trek to the start line, time for a quick toilet stop and then off to the start just in time for the gun to begin the race.This was my first ever Trail Marathon so I was nervous and excited all rolled into one, the nervous atmosphere in the race village was electric, with the compare and music adding to the tension. We headed down the track away from the race village to come back up to the start line to face the spectators on the raised platform of the visitor’s centres, nice view for the supporters and loved ones to see these nutters off.So we set off uphill under the visitor centre bridges, the uphill continued gradually for around 1.5miles before some gradual undulating ups and downs to the 5 mile point, where an uphill section for 1.5 miles to an elevation of 800ft, as bad as it may sound it was actually quite pleasant and the views were spectacular despite the mist and rain.Then came a lovely technical downhill section through some stunning forest tracks, care must be taken over the tree routes that were slippery underfoot due to the weather, some loose stones were also a challenge but I loved this downhill bit and everyone was great when they heard you coming they politely moved out of the way to let you pass, but don’t worry I repaid the favour when they overtook me on the uphill sections, which brings me to the 11 mile point and the “Sting in the tail” ohohoh wow wow ouch ouch cheeky, horrible and lovely all at the same time, nice touch in a sadistic sort of way.Nice downhill to the fuel station on half way before setting off along the brutal path under the A470, I don’t know if it was just me but this section of flat was murder on my feet, the path was made up of jagged stones and rocks bedded in the mud, it killed the balls of my feet and ankles and seamed to mentally and physically zap me, despite it being flat??That went on for around 600-800m but felt like forever before coming out on a track which made me happier to be there again, the next three miles were pretty uneventful with a climb up to 1,045ft and the highest point on the course, where you convince yourself that its all downhill from here oooooooh no, no, no such a silly fool am I, for the rest of the race it was up and down with what appeared to be longer ups than down, I’m sure it wasn’t but its how it felt.Much of the terrain from 20 miles was single track that would not be out of place in any fell run with plenty of obstacles and muds sections and with the heavy rain some of the paths were like streams.Finally, the last decent to the A470 underpass arrrhhhhhhh that underpass again with those jaggedey little feet killers just poised waiting to mentally destroy you late in the race, but hey ho you just need to push on after coming so far, onwards to the last bit to the finish line which was up hill but nobody cares, it’s the finish line whoop whoop well done everyone for taking on and completing this challenge, and as they say “nobody said it was going to be easy” #DONEPros:-       Well organised-       Great Venue-       Well-marked route-       Well stocked aid stations-       Good price-       Nice goodbag-       Volunteers #awesome-       Visitor centre staff brilliant and friendly-       Toilets – plenty, didn’t have long cues-       Plenty for supporters to do-       Stunning backdrops Cons:-       Torrential rain, please sort this out for next year-       Jaggedey little feet killers along the underpass grrrrrrrrrr-       Part of the route in the second half was more of a fell run that trail run So overall a great race that I will no doubt attempt again in the not too distant futureMy final word must go to those long suffering supporters, spectators and volunteers (Especially my Wife) that waited around for 4,5,6,7 hours in some pretty horrible weather, I can only imagine how rubbish it must have felt at times so a massive hug for Wifey and a high five for the rest of you #youramazingPlease have a look at the link to my page http://gingeral-trailrunner.simplesite.com

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  Really enjoyed this event - please check out my review (of sorts) on this link here: http://mile17.co.uk/2017/06/20/trail-marathon-wales-2017-race-review-of-sorts-and-pics/

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• R

  Did the event in 2016

  Unbelievable atmosphere, unbelievable support and an unbelievable venue!! Has to be seen to be believed. Coed y Brenin Forrest is predominantly a mountain bike centre but now has its own run shop and running club and 5 years ago the decided to organise a marathon and half marathon even and boy it did disappoint!! Utterly stunning venue, with the cafe and shop located above ground it affords mega views over the forest and surrounding environment. The race it's self consisted of three major climbs, the last of which is for heroes, not mere mortals like me lol. According to my strava, it was 40% in places but averaged about 20% for about a mile!! Overall a brilliant event and certainly the toughest I've ever done (I had blisters on both feet from mile three) but well worth the pain. Would recommend this to anyone who's thinking of doing a trail half, just because the scenery is amazing. I'll be back next year for sure!!

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This is part of the Purple Patch Running Series, and I signed up for this series as part of the 10k races.  Heyford Airbase is a disused World War 2 and Cold War Airfield, it has a lot of history.  It's a bit out of the way, but close to Bicester (Oxford) and Sat Nav takes you there without a problem.As with all Purple Patch Events, you collect your race number on the day.  So I arrived early and went about getting warmed up after collecting my number.  With this being an Airfield and winds can be a bit gusty at times. Our briefing was complete and lets us know of where the splits would be, for the 5k race, the 10k race and the Half Marathon race, which all went off at the same time.  Families turned out to cheer on their loved ones, and they also had 2 junior races which set off and finished before we started.As I was running the 10k, we were told it was just 1 loop of the airfield and back to the finish line.  All went according to plan, but as with Stockley Park last month, I would like to have had bottles of water instead of a 1/3 of a plastic cup.  Nothing stopping you from having more cups if you wished though.Once finished you get a bottle of water, a packet of haribos and your finishers medal, which is always RAF based and is a nice shiny bit of bling.  Sadly no t-shirt for the runners, not like Stockley Park and the upcoming Spire Bushey Races.I would encourage anyone wanting to run a flat smooth Half Marathon, without the distractions of paths, to take a view on this one for next year.There was a coffee wagon selling cans of drinks also and tea, and sweets, but no food stalls as like Stockley Park and Spire Bushey and also Blue Iron Reading race.I do like the course, but being an airfield you do not have any members of the public giving you a cheer.

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• R

  Did the event in 2017

  This was my first half marathon, the course is on an airbase. It is a very flat two laps course. The HM, 10k and 5k all start together, so at the end of the first lap you can suddenly find yourself a little lonely. There wasn't a t shirt and the medal was a generic one with nothing about the date or distance travelled. All in all a great race for an experienced runner but those who would want something a little more special for their first may find themselves a little disappointed with the mementos.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  This was the first time I ran this race and it was my first off-road half. Great race with great views. Highly recommend it.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Having done this event as my 1st ever 10k last year I was really looking forward to re-running this event. I registered early and made use of the early bird discount. When I registered the organisers were still using Active.com and which resulted in my card being fraudulently used. The same happened last year too. I contacted the organisers to let them know what had happened and they quickly changed their registration process away from Active.com which was a great response for a small but local event - well done Cheltenham Challenge! This year race numbers were posted out well in advance but if you registered at the last minute you could collect your number either the day before or on the day which is a good option as it's well supported by locals.Ample free onsite parking and plenty of toilets within the grandstand building.As with last year there was an event village with various stands. This year we were all asked to bring our own bottles so that the event was plastic free. One of the event sponsors also handed out reusable bottles for those who'd forgot.The 10k started slightly early at 09:25 according to my watch but this was not a problem. A pre-race warm up was offered and there seemed to be a real buzz with the 1/2 marathon starting before the 10k.The route itself is mainly off road with a few road sections but an easy to follow route with plenty of marshals along the way. Frequent water stations which were well manned offering water to drink and to splash - a nice bonus on another warm day. Many of the water stations also had a selection of sweets too.Once again Hosepipe Lady came through and was a welcome sight for many armed with her sprinkler and sweets. There was a good amount of local support too.The route finishes on a fairly long uphill section which is the only downside for me but what goes up must come down for a sprint finish across the line. A lovely medal for all finishers and plenty of catering available back in the race village for a post race ice cream etc.A lovely event, which is well run and takes participation feedback seriously from start to finish. Great interaction on social media too. I'll definitely book this one again for next year. Well done Cheltenham Challenge!

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  My first time at this event after wanting to take part for a few years now. And today I would be sweeping the 10k event.With this event being at the Cheltenham racecourse, it pretty much has everything you need for a well organised race, good trnsport links, ample parking and a shed load of toilets.Although I didn't have to register, it looked like it was a very simple process to get your number. Supplied with my walkie talkie and tail runner t shirt, we set off. The 10k and 5k courses snake around the race track and loop back to the start near the car park. I was told the half marathon is little hilly, taking you up into the surrounding hills and then joining up with the other distances. The course is probably 60% trail and 40% concrete so on a wet day, trail shoes would probably be recommended.Lots of nice views around the course and plenty of marshalls guiding you around to make sure you stay on course. The finishers medal is decent quality and there seemed to be plenty on offer around the finish area... I didn't experience this as I had just enough time to drive home for the first World Cup game of the day.I would recommend this event for all abilities and ages. Definitley something for everyone. Think I'll be back next year for the half.

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  The organisation and undertaking of this event seemed really good, although the course length was disappointingly short. My GPS only recorded 5.44 miles, and even allowing for signal issues this is incredibly short of the 10k mark (6.2miles). Having checked on Strava, other people who ran only clocked up to 5.7 miles. Rookie error I wouldn't expect from a company that puts on so many events.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Very disappointed to find at the finish that the Half Marathon course was 1.9km short! Reading some 10k reviews it seems that the suppossed 7km lap was 600+ metres shortRegistration and race number collection was very slick with a very detailed and clear pre race briefingOnly a small field (77 runners?) so a smooth start ensued, the course was a mix of dusty uneven track, tarmac paths, concreted road and a testing woodland section with a short steep hill, altogether about 600ft of climb over the 3 lapsThe 3rd lap was livened up as runners from 4 events all mingled together ( 2 x Triathlons, the 10k and Half)The scenery was gorgeous and variedWell stocked and well run feed stations with cups of water, Hi5 and flat coke together with jelly beans and gelsWell marshalled although it got a bit frantic not long after i finished near the final stretch as runners from the 4 events converged all with a varying number of laps to complete, an extra and more decisive marshall would have helped Plenty of food available post run with a good mix of cakes, fruit and drinks. Lots of concession stalls in the post race arenaAt least i set a PB for my first (and hopefully only!) 19.2km HALF :-)However, for a £40 entry fee it would have been nice to have got a finishers t-shirt and a better quality medal.......and a correctly measured course

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I've done the Castle Triathlon Series before. In 2017, I did the swim as part of a triathlon relay team. I knew that the parking was easy and right next to the event village which means a relaxed start. Plenty of portaloos and changing tents too.We picked up our numbers from the registration tent. This was nice and easy and there were no queues. We later learned that there was about 77 people in the race so I am not sure how it would be if the numbers were greater. We had a full race briefing from the Race Direcetor which was great and unnusual for races these days although it is standard in triathlons. He explained it was three 7km laps of the grounds, pointing out the various landmarks and feed and water stations on the course.As it was warming up, these were much needed and well stocked. I stopped at every one to either take on water or throw it over me to keep cool. It was great to have coca cola and jelly babies for fuel. High 5 gels were also on offer. The marshals were all fantastic (and probably sunburnt!) and the quality of the food at the finish was great: there were melons, oranges and bananas, along with cakes of various descriptions and plenty of water. All in paper cups, doing their bit for the environment.The course was very picturesque, taking in the castle's chapel, running along a treelined avenue and back, across the fields to the stables and then up the hill behind the castle. The hill was steep but the run down was good fun! The major problem with this race was that it was too short...by 2km! My Garmin registered 19.19km. Most people can forgive a few hundred metres, but this was a major error. I hope the organisers address the issues and provide an explanation as to what went wrong with the course measuring.The medal felt a little flimsy and not as substantial as last year's medal at all. There was no finisher's T shirt supplied as part of the package and the one available to buy cost £25. I was invited to do the race as a race ambassador (hence I have left value of money blank in the ratings above) but, had I paid to do this race, I would be very disappointed with the short course. I think the organisers are missing a trick not providing a T shirt as part of the package as they serve as good advertising by those who wear them. I saw that spectators were charged £7.50 to enter the grounds which also seems a bit steep. If the course distance issues could be addressed and the cost either reduced or more provided for your money, this could easily be a 5 star race, as it had a great family friendly, almost festival like, vibe and the course was stunning.

  
  Organiser replied:

  Thanks Ann, great to hear you had a good event by in large! Some constructive points that we will address in our event debrief. Key point being the event distance. What I would say about the spectator entrance is that there is lots of offer; on a normal day £7.50 is charged to go to those castle gardens and we offer live music, free entertainment for kids etc. Maybe we need to communicate that offering more. Thoughts very welcomed and congratulations on your race! :)

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From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Brilliant race, unfortunately couldn't quite fit in the hall for the race brief and the second. Checkpoint is just a check point but the aid stations were well stocked and a squirrel even filled my water bottle.

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• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I did the Brutal Midnight Marathon yesterday (you have to finish before midnight) and it lives up to its billing.....it's brutal! A seriously tough course (especially on a hot day), with well stocked aid stations and a seemess check in procedure; what's not to like?I would recommend this race to anyone who fancies something 'different' and who isn't worried about fast times.....this isn't a quick course! Check it out, you won't be disappointed!

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2015

  2015 was the 3rd time I've done this race and I don't really know why I haven't done it since as I've really enjoyed it each time.There is plenty of local support from the villages you pass through including one fantastic lady dishing out callippo's at around 9 miles.Compton Verney is every bit as beautiful as the race organisers promise and the last 250 metres when you make your way back onto the ground is one of the loveliest race finsihes I've done.The hill at 11.5 miles is brutal on a sunny day but a small price to pay for such a great little half marathon.

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From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2017

  This race is no piece of cake, with other 4000ft elevation over the Long Mynd. Stunning views and well organised from CODR again. A two lap course starting and finishing at the national trust. Aid stations well stocked, a small pack of runners that were uber friendly. HIghly recommend.

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  Without a doubt the toughest race I have done since I started running a year ago - but the most rewarding & beautiful.The weather was amazing - blue skies and sun the entire way. It was freezing cold so there was no mud....it was all frozen. Very well organised. Clear instructions sent out, parked at the nearby school. Walked up to registration, quick briefing, off we went. This is a very hilly course but the scenery is second to none! It was very well signposted with three feed stations which had water and sweets. I believe some of the faster runners completed 15 miles because a sign had been moved but I don't think this is the fault of the organisers - from what I saw they couldn't have had signposted the route more clearly, it seems someone has deliberately moved the sign which is frustrating.I finished in 2:37 which is 45 mins off my half PB but time didn't matter, the first finisher was 2:05 so it gives an indication how tough this is. Nice medal. I'll definitely do another event by Pulse Pursuits again, just hope the weather is as nice!

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From the organiser

From the organiser

Reviews

• R

  Did the event in 2018

  I wanted to run this race when I came across it, as it's not too far away from where I live. At first glance it's a little different: park the car in Long Eaton, catch the bus to Langley Mill and then run back along the banks of the canal pretty much all the way back to Long Eaton. It seemed like there was potential for things to go wrong, but it was actually a very well-run and organised event.Particpants were allocated a wave, based on the predicted finish time given on sign-up. From there a bus time was allocated from West Park in Long Eaton to the start, near the Great Northern pub in Langley Mill. Information on what to do on arrival was a little short, but marshalls were on hand to organise the boarding of the bus.  Runners were set off from Langley Mill at 15 minute intervals, a sensible arrangement due to the limited overtaking opportunities along the tow path. This meant the fast runners in the first wave were finishing as the back of the field set off, but that wasn't a major issue. The briefing was first class, probably a bit too much information to take in in one go, but better too much information than not enough. The tow path was open to other users, but everyone I came into contact with was courteous and polite in letting the runners through. There were 4 drinks stations spaced out at regular intervals en route, serving water and energy drinks, meaning that it wasn't really necessary to carry extra water. In order to get the full half marathon distance, a short loop away from the canal and around some woodland as the route gets towards Long Eaton. This was a nice respite from the tow path and was very well marshalled and signed - as was the entire route. Upon reaching Long Eaton, the path climbs a footbridge over the canal, goes through school grounds before coming out in West Park where it finishes at Long Eaton Rugby Club.There wasn't much in terms of local support, apart from lots of people asking what we were doing! The friendly and supportive marshalls more than made up for this though.  Finishers received a medal and T Shirt. In total, this event cost me £24.96 to enter, plus £4.50 for the bus to the start. In these days of 10k races asking well over £30 to complete - often with extra charges on top - I'd say the Erewash Half represents cracking value for money and would thoroughly recommend it.

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From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser

From the organiser