Jamie Warren, Head of Marketing at GO2, said: “We have seen a huge spike in the numbers of runners looking to take on Plymouth’s Half Marathon over the New Year, and with three months still to go until race day, there is plenty of time for even absolute beginners to follow our 12-week training plan to get you ready for your first ever half marathon!
“Following on from the success of last year’s race, we are anticipating a continued high take up of entries, and even the prospect of a race sell out, so don’t leave it too long!”
Now heading into its 23rd year, Plymouth’s Half Marathon is known for its scenic route and friendly atmosphere. The 13.1-mile journey will start and finish at The Hoe, with a varied course that boasts coastal views, the Barbican harbour and even the stunning National Trust grounds of Saltram Park.
Kayley Waller, Regional Challenge Events Programme Manager for national charity partner, Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Donations make up 98% of our income, so we simply couldn’t do what we do without our brilliant runners!
“The money raised by running for Team Macmillan at Plymouth’s Half Marathon will help make sure no one has to face cancer alone, from the moment they’re diagnosed, through treatment and beyond.”
Kiley Tellam, Events Fundraiser for local charity partner, Children’s Hospice South West, said: “We would like to encourage anyone thinking about taking part in the Plymouth’s Half Marathon to go for it, and we would love for you to support CHSW at the same time!
“We support many children and families from Plymouth, the surrounding areas and across the South West through our three special children’s hospices, which are a lifeline to many. Help us to make the most of short and precious lives through doing something positive this New Year and join Team CHSW!”
The 2016 race will once again see thousands of local school children complete their own collective half marathon distance as part of the Plymouth’s Half Marathon Schools’ Challenge, with a record number of over 2,500 pupils also signed up for this element of the event! Primary school runners will be helping to raise funds for CLIC Sargent in the South West, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, and their families.
CLIC Sargent Fundraising Manager, Jordan Anderton, said: “I would just like to thank all the teachers, students and their parents for all of the enthusiasm and support that they have shown both the Schools’ Challenge and CLIC Sargent so far.
“Your support is incredibly influential in helping CLIC Sargent support young people with cancer and their families, ensuring that they get the support they deserve. I would like to wish you all the very best of luck with your half marathon challenge, as well as your fundraising activities.”
Year after year, thousands of spectators come out to show their fantastic support for all the runners in Plymouth, so whether you’re a regular, or are taking on your first ever half marathon, you can expect to hear big cheers as you cross the finish line! Secure your spot now to avoid disappointment at www.plymouthhalfmarathon.com!
If you are looking for a warm up event, The Plymouth Cancer Research UK Snowflake Run will be taking place on Sunday 21st February, and entries are warming up with 6 weeks to go! The city has been chosen to host the first Snowflake 10k Run at Saltram Estate, a National Trust property, surrounded by the remains of 18th-century landscape parkland. If you are looking to join the New Year New you club, enter at www.snowflakeseries.co.uk and join the team.
The Men’s half marathon race was won by Tom Merson, with a fantastic chip time of 1 hour eight minutes and eight seconds. Tom also came first overall in the 2021 half marathon held in September last year.
He was closely followed by Megan Davis, winner of the Women’s half marathon race. Megan’s chip time was another incredible result, at 1 hour 18 minutes and 35 seconds.
Four of the previous five meetings between the teams had finished in 2-2 draws, but not this time as Ryan Hardie wrapped up the win with his 13th goal of the campaign in the fourth minute of added time.
Schumacher said: “I’m really pleased with result. Obviously, that was the main thing today, try and get three points with losing last weekend away at Sheffield Wednesday so it was important we had a response.