Thousands returned to the streets of Swansea to participate in the ninth edition of Wales’ biggest summer half marathon today. The annual event which is a favourite amongst the running community far and wide was a spectacle, with spectators and supporters cheering runners along the route and at the finish to witness all the glory.
After Swansea University Fellow, Lowri Morgan and rugby legend Ryan Jones, set the participants on their way, the fun runners set off, making it a truly family event for all abilities.
Ryan Jones, MBE said:
“It was fantastic to see all the runners take part at today’s event, many of which were raising funds for charity, including those who were “making strides for mental health”. The initiative is something very close to my heart and it was an honour to be part of it and run with everyone at #TeamSwansea.”
Wales former international rugby union player, Ryan Jones, MBE.
Over 4,000 registered to take part in the Swansea Half Marathon, which is now sponsored by Swansea University, along with long-standing partners at JCP solicitors, Matthews & Co accountants and HMT Sancta Maria. Managing Director of Front Runner Events, David Martin-Jewell, said:
“It is always inspiring to see our participants lining up at the start and watching them cross that finish line. Whether it’s their first event, a personal challenge, or raising money for charity, everyone has their own reason to run, and it’s a privilege for us to help make that possible.”
Pictured left to right are: 2nd Place Wheelchair winner Gary Cooper, 1st place winner Richie Powell and 3rd place winner Rob Smith.
Wheelchair winners
The elite field remained competitive as always, with wheelchair record holder Richie Powell retaining his 2016 record, and finished the race in an impressive 01:02:26. He was closely followed by Gary Cooper in 2nd place coming in at 01:02:28 and Rob Smith finishing 3rd in 01:07:37.
1st place winner and course record holder: Omar Ahmed.
Top Male Finishers
Omar Ahmed of Birchfield Harriers smashed his previous winning time and set a new course record in 1st place at the men’s race in a time of 1:02:53. 2nd place was taken by Seyd Ghafari, in a time of 1:06:16 and in 3rd place was Alexander Bampton of Highgate Harriers achieving a time of 1:06:57.
1st place female winner, Lucy Reid.
Top Female Finishers
The women’s race was equally competitive, and 1st place went to Lucy Reid of Tonbridge AC in an impressive 01:14:22. 2nd place went to Clara Evans of Pontypridd Roadents AC in a time of 01:16:01 and 3rd place went to Charlotte Dannatt of Camberley & District AC in 01:16:22.
Mass start.
Other keen runners turned up in their droves, many of which were wearing vests to represent their club and lots in fancy dress too! Hundreds of charity runners were present, raising awareness and much-needed funds for their chosen charities, including the official charities partners at Maggie’s Swansea and Cancer Research UK.
Workplace teams also went head-to-head to win the title of the Celf Corporate Challenge, which has historically been won by the ever-strong team at JCP solicitors.
Swansea University Run Team “Making Strides For Mental Health”
David Martin-Jewell added:
“We would like to thank everyone who took part in today’s event. From the participants to the volunteers, staff and crew, and last but not least, our sponsors and event partners. The people of Swansea made it a day to remember and we can’t wait to see what next year brings!”
The 10th edition of the Swansea University Swansea Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, 9 June 2024. Entry to the event has opened and to commemorate #10yearsrunning organisers will be honouring £10 off general entry prices, so the first 2,000 entrants will be able to snap up their place for only £30!
To follow the event pages click on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and tag us in your social posts #RunSwansea #BeYourBest.
