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SA1 Solutions

Virtual Races Hit New Highs!

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The team at Front Runner Events were quick to turn the tables on their event that which was due to take place earlier this month in the beautiful Pembrey Country Park.  As every runner knows there is nothing like the real event, lining up at the start with every other runner who has trained incredibly hard for the race ahead.  But, with races being postponed and in some cases being cancelled, this has left organisers and runners feeling disappointed.  That is the reason why the Front Runner team felt it was important to offer their runners a tangible goal by introducing the Great Welsh Marathon and Half Marathon virtual races.

David Martin-Jewell said:

            “We are excited to be seeing runners from all over the World taking part in our virtual races in their respective neighbourhoods.  This is the first time we have launched a virtual race and we are pleased to be able to provide this platform, helping runners maintain their fitness, set goals and achieve their targets.  So far, we have seen nearly 500 runners take part, some of whom may prefer to run on their own and not have the added pressure of others around them chasing PB’s.”

            “I’ve learnt over the last few weeks that running is not all about achieving times, sometimes we just need to enjoy the nature, sounds and appreciate everything around us, so I’m delighted we can offer this race for everyone.”        

If you would like to register and #RunCymru wherever you live, you can sign up for the virtual race and choose between the half marathon or marathon distance here:  https://www.greatwelshmarathon.co.uk/join-great-welsh-virtual-races/  You’ll need to hurry, as entry will only remain open until 30th April, but to help, we’ve made the process is simple:

1. Register your place – £15 (entry includes a finisher t-shirt, bespoke medal & certificate)

2. Complete the distance before 30/04/2020

3. Submit your Strava, Garmin, GPS data (to your members hub when you signed up – this must show your name, the exact distance, route, time and date)

Once certified, you will receive your goodies in the post, but you can expect to see your name on the leader boards (for either the half or full marathon) and get your virtual finisher’s certificate.  Why not make your marathon miles go further and help Save the UK’s Charities?  To take part in this fantastic fund raiser head to: https://www.twopointsixchallenge.co.uk/ to find out more! 

Don’t forget to check out our TIPS on running responsibly and maintaining social distancing measures whilst exercising outdoors!  

How To Train & Run A Half Marathon Safely – #runresponsibly

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As difficult as the situation is that we currently find ourselves in, we all want something to set our sights on and take our minds off what’s going on in the World around us.  We all know how important staying active, healthy and fit is and running is a great way to do this for our minds and body, so we would like to continue to provide goals for our runners whilst maintaining current governmental and public health advice.

The good news is that if you are new or returning to running after some time off, training for a half-marathon is manageable even for the busiest of us!  So why not use this time to ensure you make the most of your exercise once a day and get yourselves running.

The half marathon is the perfect distance for beginners and for the more experienced, wanting to achieve that sense of accomplishment.  That is why we at Front Runner Events were keen to establish the JCP Swansea Half MarathonLlanelli Half Marathon and Great Welsh Half.  Thankfully, our first race of the year took place before COVID-19 hit the UK, however we have had to postpone the remaining two and offer a virtual race as an option.

Now, if you can manage two to three miles at a time, starting off with walk-run-walk, a couple of times per week, you can get into half-marathon shape in 12 weeks providing you stick to a plan.  To help, we have put together a variety of plans to suit all levels of ability, so we’re sure you’ll find one to suit you!  To find your plan go to: https://bit.ly/2zmewO1

You will need to bear in mind that you should add a weekend run that is a slightly longer distance once you feel confident to do so.  Once you gain momentum you will be running—four to five miles in no time, then you can gradually build up to,7, 8, 9 or 10 miles over the course of the 12 weeks.

The best thing about a half marathon is that the training is usually lifestyle friendly that includes a few days of running or jogging, a couple days of cross-training, and a couple days of rest will get you into shape.  Here are a few TIPS to make sure you train responsibly during this time:

  • Run in your local area – starting from home (don’t drive).
  • Run alone or only with household members.
  • Greet fellow runners with a wave rather than calling out.
  • Run with your phone in case you need to call for help.
  • Think about when & where you will run – avoid gatherings, use wide lanes or spaces which are likely to be quieter.
  • Be aware of your surroundings – If you are approaching people slow down and maintain at least 2 metres distance (plan your pass – let them you know you are there, go around them, cross over etc).
  • Wear hi-vis gear if you have it so you stand out (particularly around dawn or dusk).
  • Try and wear a buff and gloves if possible.
  • Wash or shower as soon as you return home.
  • Be sensible, stay safe!

To find alternative or additional challenges our training partners at realbuzz.com have some great ideas to mix up your running.  To find out more and how you can make the most of your training head to their pages here.

 

2.6 Challenge

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With the postponement of our own Great Welsh Marathon and JCP Swansea Half Marathon following the same path as thousands of other events across the UK being postponed due to the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, this is having a destructive impact on the UK Charity sector that could result in many being forced to close. We are proud of our work with all of our charity partners who do so much good on both a local and national level. It is now our turn to give back and help the charities.

The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) CEO Karl Wilding estimates that the UK charity sector will lose £4 billion in income as a result of the pandemic.

Front Runner Events is working alongside some of the biggest mass participation event organisers to assist with the 2.6 Challenge and Save the UK’s Charities. But we cannot do it alone, we need your help!

Launching on 26th April, on what should have been the date of the 40th edition of the London Marathon – The 2.6 Challenge involves dreaming up a challenge based around the numbers 2.6 or 26 and fundraising or donating to Save the UK’s Charities. It’s open to anyone of any age – the only requirement is that the activity follows Government guidelines on exercising and social distancing!

If fundraising dries up during this lockdown period, many of our most valued charities may not survive. Join us with your own 2.6 Challenge or simply donate to the cause and help us ensure the most vulnerable members of our society continue to have somewhere to turn during this crisis.

To find out more about how you can join in head here.

WHAT IS INVOLVED – Your challenge can be anything that works for you!

Run, walk or cycle 2.6 miles, 2.6km or for 26 minutes. You could do the same in your home or garden, go up and down the stairs 26 times, juggle for 2.6 minutes, do a 26 minute exercise class or 26 keepie-ups – anything you like.

Home Workouts for Runners

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With all the news around COVID-19 some of you runners may feel nervous about heading outside.  We all know there’s nothing better than running with friends but it may not be right for your individual circumstances, so we’ve got some useful ideas of home workouts thanks to our training partners realbuzz.com. Try the following exercises, mix it up with some strength circuits or even use a video tutorial on YouTube – there are so many to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice!  But don’t forget to listen to your body, don’t overdo it and drink plenty of water when training at home!

Tabata circuit

Tabata training is a form of high intensity interval training (HIIT) that is based on 4 minute blocks. It’s a fantastic and time effective way to work on both your aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. However, there is a catch; this type of training isn’t for the faint hearted. You need to push yourself hard and not simply ‘go through the motions’ if you want to reap the benefits.

Each exercise in the circuit lasts for 4 minutes and is split into the following format:

  • Work for 20 seconds
  • Rest for 10 seconds
  • Repeat 8 times
  • Take 1 minute of rest between each different exercise.

You can even download a Tabata training timer for your phone or iPad that keeps track of time for you.  Try the following routine for a workout that will leave you feeling the burn.

Step ups

Step up onto a box, whilst, maintaining a good posture, chest up and shoulders back. Step down using the same leading leg. Alternate legs and repeat.

Mountain climber

Start in a straight arm plank position. Alternate bending your knees and bringing them forward as close to your hands as possible. Focus on keeping your back flat throughout the movement.

Burpees

Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Drop down into a ‘push-up’ position. Push back up and jump into a squat position. Jump with as much energy as you can into the air, raising your hands above your head to complete one rep. On landing, start the next rep straight away.

Side plank

Lie on your side with your legs straight and your ankles together. Prop your torso up with your upper arm. Lift your hips upward until your body forms a straight line from your ankles to your neck. Alternate sides for each 20 second block.

Reverse lunge

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Step one foot back directly behind your body. Bend both knees to drop into a single leg squat position. Return to the starting position and alternate legs.

Russian Twists

Sit leaning back slightly with both knees bent and your feet elevated so that you assume a ‘V position’. Hold a weighted object with both hands. (If you don’t have any dumbbells or weighted plates at home then a large bag of rice will do). Keeping your hips facing forward and your trunk fixed, rotate your upper body and weighted object to each side, turning your head as you twist.

Race Route Return Path From Mumbles To Swansea Marina

Everything You Need to Know for the 2019 JCP Swansea Half Marathon

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Runners, elite athletes, spectators and supporters will adorn the streets of Swansea next Sunday as the biggest race of the year stages its annual event for the City. With only a week to go until the JCP Swansea Half Marathon takes place; on Sunday 23rd June, the City will once again welcome visitors from all over the globe; some of whom will be travelling from as far away as; USA, Brazil, Australia, Singapore as well as plenty of representation from the 4 home nations.

As the event grows from strength-to-strength the race continues to attract some of the best athletes in the UK along with a mass field of seasoned runners, first timers, and locals who keep coming back year after year. And it’s easy to see why – it’s fast, it’s flat, and it boasts a stunning route that our runners simply rave about! Being recognised as the UK’s Best Half Marathon (2017 & 2018), attracting journalists and worldwide TV coverage last year, also might have a little something to do with it!

Cohort of Runners

Hundreds of runners taking part will be raising money for charity, getting into the spirit by sporting their best fancy dress, running with their club, or taking on the Corporate Challenge, where businesses go head to head – simply a brilliant way to encourage team spirit! There will be a total of 18 teams that will be battling it out to be crowned Corporate Challenge Champions.

Charities – Did You Know?

There will be another attempt by a group running for Diabetes UK Cymru alongside 1 Bloody Drop to try to set a new World Record for the most Type 1’s to run a half marathon. The race itself offers a fantastic platform for charity fundraising and many will still be raising funds up until race day for their own causes and the headline charities; Cancer Research UK, Diabetes UK Cymru, and Maggie’s Swansea (home of cancer care).

Famous Faces

The race has attracted some famous faces in previous years with the likes of sports personalities; Shane Williams, Ryan Jones, Ian Gough, as well as TV personalities: CJ De Mooi, and Eve Myles gracing the route. This year we can look forward to welcoming the return of Casualty actress; Jaye Griffiths.

Fun Time Fruits Family Dash.

Families will be joining in at the Fun Time Fruits Family Dash. Enabling everyone to experience the thrilling atmosphere of a big sporting event in the city.  Participants will get that finish line feeling when they reach the official finish at Swansea Museum taking in 2K of the half marathon route, before cheering on the finishers of the main event.  Starting at the Brangwyn Hall at 10.15am, taking place once the half marathon runners have crossed the start line. All entries for the Dash will close on the 19th June and bibs can be collected on Saturday 22nd June between 10.30am-4pm at Museum Green and on race day from 7.30am at the Information Point in the pre-event Race Village (sited near the start).

Bands Across the Bay

Runners and spectators alike will be entertained during the race by showcasing some of the best acts in South Wales. A festival atmosphere and fantastic crowd support are expected, as we welcome Welsh singing star Ros Evans to deliver a heart-stirring performance at the start, and runners will be surprised and delighted with performance spots at locations along the route and in the race village at the finish. With everything from rock, rhythm & blues to choirs and drumming groups, each and every one of them will be hoping to motivate the runners, giving them the boost they need to run the distance around the beautiful Swansea Bay.

Pacers

Participating athletes will be pleased to know that there will be a team of Racecheck Pacers at the event.  Their team offers fantastic support during the race, helping to runners achieve their target race time at the event, in the following estimated times: 1.30, 1.35, 1.40, 1.45, 1.50, 2.00, 2.10, 2.15, 2.20 and 2.30 hours.  Runners simply need to look out for their pacer (who will be wearing a flag) within their designated pen and try to stay with them throughout the race to ensure accurate timing.

Race Village

The post-event race village will be located in Museum Green which is open from 7.30am on race day, and will host; the headline charities, information point, massage tent, cool down area, live music and a selection of food stands and stalls. All bags will be collected near the start area and loaded onto an articulated Owen’s Group lorry where all baggage will be transported to the finish area after the race, so runners just need to look out for signage.  Everyone is advised to avoid bringing a bag, but if they must, ALL bags must be clearly labelled and will be subject to inspection.

The Start

The mass race will start at 10.00am which will allow travellers extra time to get to the starting pens, which are located outside the Brangwyn Hall. The route takes runners on fully closed roads past Swansea castle and along a magnificent six-mile stretch of Swansea Bay towards The Mumbles, with its iconic pier and lighthouse. The wheelchair race will start at 9.55am prior to the main field of runners and the Family Dash will commence at 10.15am.

Key Timings:

  • 07:30: Race village open
  • 07:30: Baggage lorry open near the Brangwyn Hall
  • 09:00: Road closures commence
  • 09:30: Runners enter start funnels at Guildhall Road South
  • 09:50: Baggage drop off closes
  • 09:55: Wheelchair athlete race begins
  • 10:00: Mass race starts
  • 10:15: Fun Time Fruits Family Fun Dash Starts
  • 11:00: Wheelchair winner of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon expected
  • 11:03: Male Winner Expected
  • 11:12: Female Winner Expected
  • 12:00: Winners Presentation
  • 14:00: Last Runner Expected
  • 16:00: Event closes

Race Day Guide

This features all the need to know information about the event, including safety notes, how to get into the city, road closures, and route map.  Anyone wishing to know more can download their copy via the website: http://www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk

 

Download & Track

This year the organisers have launched an official JCP Swansea Half Marathon App available to download on the Apple and Android stores.  Branded as the one-stop shop for information whether you’re running or simply supporting its packed with all your need to knows.  Best of all, you’ll be able to track your loved one’s live, and check all race results at the touch of a button. To download yours just head to: http://ow.ly/6jRN50uAcP4

 

Road Closures

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon is a fully closed road event, and as a result there will be road closures for the duration of the event so residents and visitors are advised to plan their trip well in advance. For further details on road closures across the city please check the website http://www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk/travel-parking/

 Title Record Holders

There’s no secret that there are some pretty impressive record times achieved at the JCP Swansea Half Marathon and the current title holder’s include:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wheelchair Record Holder (2016):  Richie Powell: with a record time of 61:27
Male Record Holder (2018): Cardiff AAC; Matt Clowes with a record time of 64:43,

Female Record Holder (2018): Thames Valley Harriers; Tracy Barlow time of 73:50.  Organisers expect to see an equally strong field of elites at this years race, with rivalry and competition at its best.

Team Behind The Scenes

The organising team behind the JCP Swansea Half Marathon, Front Runner Events, continues to work with their founding sponsor and Title Partner JCP Solicitors and long-term partners that include; Matthews & Co, HMT Sancta Maria and Race Nation.  The event hydration partner remains to be the Welsh favourite Brecon Carreg, and nutrition partner Eat Natural.

 

To stay ahead of all the news as it happens like the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf or follow @Swansea_HM #RunSwansea #BeYourBest on Twitter and @swanseahalfmarathon on Instagram.

Cancer Changed My Outlook On Life and Now I Run To Inspire Others

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Rachel Avon, 34 from Newport talks to us about her biggest life challenges and how cancer has changed her outlook in more ways than one.  Rachel was diagnosed with one of the rarest forms of cancer affecting only 1 in 3 million people.  Not only was this discovered during her pregnancy, but doctors did not inform the family until after the delivery of the baby.

Rachel recounts her experience here:

“When I was six months pregnant, I came into school one day with a pain in my side which gradually got worse.  By mid-morning I couldn’t sit down, and after a phone call to my GP, it was suggested that I go to the hospital to get checked out.  I had a blood test the same day, the results concerned the doctors and appendicitis was suspected.   They wanted to remove my appendix immediately and I had to consent that we were willing to put my life ahead of the baby’s. It was horrendous, something I wish no pregnant family has to go through.”

The operation was a complete success and Rachel carried onto full-term pregnancy and their daughter Cari was born on March 28, 2014.   Unsuspecting of anything further, the hospital called Rachel two days after giving birth to ask her to come in.  That was when doctors told her of the devastating news of the discovery of a cancerous tumour.

Rachel said:

“When I realised that doctors hadn’t told me about my cancer I was so shocked – they told me the reason for not telling me until Cari was born was due to the fact I wouldn’t be able to have an MRI to see if cancer had spread until after she was born.  In the short term, it didn’t feel right, but five years on, I know it was the right decision they made for us.”

The MRI Scans showed no signs of cancer having spread.  In the five years since surgery, doctors have carefully monitored Rachel due to the risks of the cancer returning.  But now she is officially cancer free and counts herself lucky the cancer was found in time, regarding Cari as her miracle baby.  Being pregnant triggered the issue with Rachel’s appendix meaning she needed surgery – without this, the chances are that the tumour wouldn’t have been found.

Rachel no longer requires any treatment, but one side effect of cancer was that she was left with the feeling of anxiety every day.  As a result, she started running at the suggestion of a friend whom she confided in.  Before she knew it, Rachel had completed a 12 week “Couch to 5k” training plan over the summer.  She went onto join a local running club and has now completed several 10k’s and half-marathons, including the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

Rachel said:

“I got my all-clear scan result this year which was like a weight had been lifted off me. You can now notice a change in my anxiety, and I have a much more positive outlook on life.  Cancer has changed my outlook in every way.   I now feel in control of my life and have much more confidence to do things, and a determination to do what I want to do.  Coming through this journey and taking up running has really helped me on all sorts of levels not only from a mental health perspective but also on a physical level.”

“I was never a sporty person – I was the one who used to bring in notes to get out of PE when I was at school – so to take up running was something alien to me.  But my determination and training have enabled me to run the London marathon, and my next big race at Swansea Half, whilst raising funds for Cancer Research UK.  Trust me, if I can do it, anyone can!”

If you feel inspired by Rachel’s story and would like to take part in the SOLD-OUT JCP Swansea Half Marathon, whilst raising vital life-saving funds for Cancer Research UK goto: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/get-involved/find-an-event/jcp-swansea-half-marathon to sign up, get your free running top, training plans, and fundraising advice. You’re sure to have an amazing experience, so why not join Team CRUK and together we will beat cancer.

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon takes place on SUNDAY 23rd JUNE 2019 starting at 10 am from the iconic Brangwyn Hall, taking runners from the city centre, leading to the mumbles, along the beautiful sweeping Swansea Bay.  The course is perfect for first-timers, fun runners, charity runners and elites on its flat, fast course.  The route is well organised, fully marshalled and supported by spectators and bands to help runners on their way for a momentous finish at Swansea Museum.  The event also holds a family fun run for anyone supporting their loved ones who are taking part in the half marathon, anyone interested in registering can do so on the website: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk/family-dash

To find out more information on both races visit the website or like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #RunSwansea #BeYourBest on Twitter.

 

Runners Rush To Get Their Place At The JCP Swansea Half Marathon

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Places to the JCP Swansea Half Marathon are literally flying out the door as the countdown to close registration begins.  With just 1 WEEK until entry to #RunSwansea closes before MIDNIGHT on the 18th MAY, runners are rushing to make sure they don’t miss the cut-off.

The event, which has become well recognised for being Wales’ BIGGEST summer half marathon, takes place on SUNDAY 23rd JUNE 2019.  The route promises to be as impressive as ever, with the start line being held at the iconic Brangwyn Hall at the NEW revised time of 10am.  Allowing runners travelling from further afield to arrive in plenty of time to take part.  The race course takes runners through the city centre, offering them some spectacular scenery of the sweeping Swansea Bay and city highlights of Swansea Marina, SA1, and the city’s Museums.

A well-renowned course for its fast, flat, PB potential, attracts fantastic crowd support, great entertainment on route, and beautiful scenery…it’s no wonder this gem of a race has a string of awards to its name!  Along with a field of seasoned athletes, first timers, charity fundraisers and family fun runners, it’s sure to inspire a momentous finish outside Wales’ oldest Museum.

David Martin-Jewell director of Front Runner Events said:

“Last week was our biggest number of entries to the JCP Swansea Half Marathon in it’s history.  I think that the television coverage we received in 2018 had a big impact on the entrants nationwide this year.  I also believe that the growth is a correlation on the general uptake on people wanting to improve their health wellbeing.  It gives me great pleasure knowing that our event is able to act as a catalyst for many wanting to make positive changes in their lives, and provide a platform for some fantastic charity fundraising.  We look forward to welcoming all our runners to the sixth edition of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.”

Almost 6,500 registered runners took part in 2018, of all ages and abilities, along with a good number of family fun runners who were able to take part and follow in the footsteps of their loved ones. The race has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s premier road races, and certainly one that a MUST-do for any runner.

To snap up your half marathon place before entries close go to: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk and reserve your place today!  General entries cost £40 or £38 (plus booking fee) for affiliate entry, and runners will receive a medal, t-shirt, goody bag, water and gel stations on a well-marshalled course, with some great entertainment to boot.

But if running a half marathon is not your thing don’t forget there’s a fun run for all the family! So why not enter together and get all-generations running with each other…mums, dads, grandparents, or kids will enjoy all the glory and fun of the race only a shorter distance (approximately 2k)!  For just £10 (plus booking fee) per person, every entrant will get a medal, goody bag, water, and the thrill of starting and finishing at the official lines of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.  Anyone wishing to take part in the family dash can also enter here: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk

To find out more information on both races, stay up to date with all the latest news, visit the website or like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #RunSwansea #BeYourBest on Twitter.

Community Fund Backs Local Girl To Stay In Sport

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A community fund pot available to aspiring young people who want to continue or take their first steps into sport has recently helped Swansea girl; Madison Evans.  The fund that has been named: “Leave More Than A Footprint” was originally born out of the Multi-Award Winning JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

The team behind the idea wanted to set up a fund to help give something back to the community of Swansea and the surrounding region.  The race is in its sixth year, and since its inception, the team at Front Runner Events have gone onto successfully deliver the; Llanelli Half Marathon, Great Welsh Marathon & Half Marathon, and is now in collaboration with the Kidney Wales Cardiff 10K.  Since founding the company, the team has longed to help others in sport, and the fund; “Leave More Than A Footprint” is now able to achieve this.

The first young person to be awarded the grant is a sports-mad local girl called Madison Evans, who plays cricket and netball in the region.  She may be young at only 15 years old, but already she knows what she wants – and her long-term aim is to make it big!  She is very ambitious and hungry to be successful.  Madison’s biggest achievement to date has been to represent Wales in cricket, gaining a Welsh cap for the sport and a number of awards she’s received for netball. She loves playing alongside the 2nds squad at Swansea and her aim this year is to break into a 1st cricket team game through her all-rounder ability.

Carly Short, mum of Madison said:

“As parents, we find it hard, with the cost of everything, and the travel expense more so, if you have to stay over. Equipment over the years has got more expensive, making it harder to purchase quality products. I also find it harder now myself to drive her around, so her dad has to make sure he has the time off for us to travel to the Welsh games making things more difficult at times.”

The fund is available to young individuals who have a burning desire or talent for sport.  There is no restriction on the type of sport they wish to pursue within scope of the fund and it is open for applications all year round.

David Martin-Jewell, director of Front Runner Events said:

“We are thrilled to be able to help young people like Madsion and hope that her story will inspire others to take up sport or apply to our ‘Leave More Than A Footprint’ fund.  The aim of the fund is to help remove the barriers that may prevent someone to participate or continue in sport.  It’s an easy application process, and the team are here to help answer any questions to anyone, who think they fit in with the aim of the fund.”

“I would also like to personally thank all of those who have donated to ‘Leave More Than A Footprint’. There have been many people who have donated towards the fund through entry to our races and without their donations, people like Madison wouldn’t have received the assistance they deserve.”

Carly added:

“Thank you Front Runner Events for giving my daughter the chance to stay in sport and carry on not only playing for her city or county but mainly the country with netball and cricket.  It’s enabled her to pick a better range of equipment needed and boosted her confidence immensely!”

Should you know of someone who would benefit from “Leave More Than A Footprint” please visit the website for further information or download the application form here:  www.frontrunnerevents.co.uk/charityfund

If this story has inspired you to #RunSwansea and take on the half marathon challenge or just fancy participating in the family dash this summer head to: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk to register today!  Entries are open for both race distances and are suitable for any ability.  The JCP Swansea Half Marathon is a road race that is flat, and fast on a course that is perfect for beginners and first time half marathon runners. Find their facebook page, follow them on twitter or Instagram  to keep up with all the latest news.

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES & RESTRICTIONS

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SWANSEA HALF MARATHON

The Swansea Half Marathon is to be held on Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th June 2017 and will require temporary road closures and traffic restrictions to accommodate the event.

Would you therefore please commence the statutory procedures under Section 16(a) of the  Road Traffic Regulation Act 1994 – Special Events Closure, to introduce the following restrictions:

Schedule 1 : Road Closures –  Saturday 19-00hrs to Sunday 19-00hrs

Oxford Street: – from junction of Dillwyn Street to Castle Square.

Whitewalls: – from its junction with Princess Way to rear of Primark.

Union Street: – from its junction with Nelson Street to Park Street.

Nelson Street: – it’s entire length.

 

Schedule 2 : Road Closures –  Sunday  05-00hrs to 14:00hrs

Whitewalls :- it’s entire length

St Marys Square: – from its junction with Whitewalls to Princess Way.

Park Street: – its entire length.

Portland Street: – its entire length.

Plymouth Street: – its entire length.

Singleton Street: – its entire length.

Wind Street: – its entire length.

Castle Street: – its entire length.

Castle Bailey Street: – it’s entire length.

Castle Square: – its entire length.

Caer Street: – its entire length.

 

Schedule 3 : Road Closures –  Sunday  06-00hrs to 14:00hrs

Princess Way: – its entire length.

St Marys Street: – its entire length.

St Marys Square: – to its junction with Princess Way.

St Davids Place: – its entire length.

York Street: – its entire length.

Salubrious Place: – its entire length.

Little Wind Street: – its entire length.

 

Schedule 4 : Road Closures –  Sunday  08-00hrs to 14:00hrs

College Street & Welcome Lane: – its entire length westbound only.

A4067 Oystermouth Road:from its junction with West Way to Alberts Row.

A4067 Quay Parade:from Sainsbury’s Store to Wind Street.

A4067 Victoria Road:its entire length.

 

Schedule 5 : Road Closures –  Sunday  08-30hrs to 14:00hrs

Somerset Place: – its entire length, right turn only.

Wellington Street:its entire length (access to Quadrant Car Park and Tesco Marina via Stop & Go boards)

Kingsway Metro:its entire length.

Dillwyn Street Metro:its entire length.

Picton Lane:its entire length.

 

Schedule 6 : Road Closures –  Sunday as below

A4067 Oystermouth Road 08-00 to 10:50:West Way to Guildhall Road South.

A4067 Mumbles Road 08-00 to 11:15:Westbound Guildhall Road South to Knab Rock.

 

Schedule 7: No Right Turn 08-00hrs to 14:00hrs

Mayals Road onto A4067 Mumbles Road.
Llwynderw Drive onto A4067 Mumbles Road.

Lilliput Lane onto A4067 Mumbles Road.
Army Reserve Centre onto A4067 Mumbles Road.
Fairwood Road onto A4067 Mumbles Road.
Alderwood Drive onto Mumbles Road.
Bethany Lane onto Mumbles Road.
Palmyra Court onto Mumbles Road.
Norton Ave onto Mumbles Road.
Norton Rd onto Mumbles Road.
Newton Rd onto Mumbles Road.
Dunns Lane onto Mumbles Road.
Church Park Lane onto Mumbles Road.
Myrtle Terrace onto Mumbles Road.
Village Lane onto Mumbles Road.
George Bank onto Mumbles Road.

 

Schedule 8: Varying Restrictions 08-45hrs to 14:00hrs

Dunvant Place onto A4067 Oystermouth Road – no left turn, no right turn..
Guildhall Road South onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn.
Brynmill Lane onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn.
Sketty Lane onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn/no U-turn.
Ashleigh Road onto  A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn.
Derwen Fawr Road onto A4067 Mumbles Rd – no right turn.
Mill Lane onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn.
Unnamed Rd (The Woodman Public House) onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn.

 

Schedule 9: No Parking Restrictions (Tow Away Zone)  – Saturday 18-00hrs to Sunday 15-00hrs

Castle Bailey St

Castle St

Wind St

Caer St

Princess Way

Kingsway

Oxford St (from Whitewalls to junction with Dillwyn St)

Union St

Nelson St

Somerset Place

Ferry Side

Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times

Corporate Champions of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon Donate Prize Money to Food Bank

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Winners of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon Corporate Challenge took home the award in 2016 and this week have announced that the prize money from the race will go to Swansea Food Bank.

The strong team of school teachers from Bishopston Comprehensive was headed up by P.E teacher Andrew Bartley and head teacher Jeff Bird, and were one of 18 teams to take part in the corporate challenge at the 2016 race.  Each team consisted of between five to thirty runners, and the team with the fastest combined time (average time of the top five fastest finishers) takes the title.

Jez Hill lead the pack at Bishopston with a finishing time of 1:34:38, followed by Ceri Bartley, Gavin Davies, Jon Reed and Rodney Johnson who all finished as the top five finishers time within 1:45:21.

Jeff Bird, Head teacher at Bishopston Comprehensive school said:

“I was delighted to see so many of our staff taking part in the Swansea Half Marathon last year.  It is an excellent event that generates much-needed funds for worthy charities, and being winners of the corporate challenge helped our school raise an extra £100 toward the Swansea Foodbank.  We didn’t enter the challenge expecting to win, however, our team ethos at Bishopston seemed to be the key in becoming the 2016 champions.  Taking part was an excellent opportunity for us to demonstrate to our pupils that anything is achievable and hope that we can enter in 2017 and retain our title of Corporate Champions.”

Organisers of the race met with Swansea Foodbank to donate the prize of £100 to the charity that is solely run by volunteers across Swansea.  The food bank initiative is part of the Trussell Trust and delivers help to people in crisis across the city.  Foodbank provides emergency food to people who need it most, whether someone has been made redundant or face a financial crisis; food banks are known to help prevent crime, family breakdown or mental health problems.

David Martin-Jewell, Managing director of Front Runner Events said:foodbank2

“We are so pleased to be donating the prize from Bishopston Comprehensive School directly to Swansea’s foodbank.  Foodbanks provide a very important role to the people of Swansea preventing hunger, and other serious problems.  We are very much a strong supporter of this city and like it gives us great pleasure to be giving something back to this very important local charity.”    

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon Corporate Challenge was introduced two years ago to give corporate teams the opportunity to get involved in one of the UK’s fastest growing half marathons, whilst giving their organistion exposure and visibility at a major sporting event. The event offers a fantastic platform for companies to actively promote a healthy work force and to encourage fitness, motivation and team building in the business environment whilst raising money for charity.

If you are part of an organisation whether it be a school, not for profit, or commercial business and think you could get a team together to take on the corporate challenge then get in touch with the Front Runner Events team on 01792 277310 email [email protected] or visit: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk

Corporate team entries cost £33+VAT per person for teams of 5-10 entrants, £32+VAT per person for 11-25 entrants and £30+VAT per person for 26-50 entrants. The entry fee includes the team or company name on every runner’s bib, a listing on the Corporate Challenge web page on the race website, access to training advice and plans, plus a medal, technical t-shirt and goody bag for every finisher. The organisers will also award a donation of £100 to the winning team’s charity of choice.

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 25th June 2016 on fully closed roads and is a firm favourite amongst the running community. The flat fast course is perfect for beginners, first time half marathon runners and charity runners, whilst also attracting a large elite field from Wales and beyond to #RunSwansea.

Visit www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk for further race details and to sign up, like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #RunSwansea #FromTheCityToTheSea on Twitter to keep up to date with all the latest news about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.