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Tash Smith

Get Race Day Ready As The JCP Swansea Half Marathon Presents Their 5th Anniversary Race

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Runners, athletes, spectators and crowds of supporters will adorn the streets of Swansea this Sunday as the biggest race of the year stages its 5th event for the city. With only days to go until the JCP Swansea Half Marathon takes place; on Sunday 24th June, the city will once again be welcoming visitors from all over the globe.  As the event continues to grow from strength-to-strength the race has beaten previous participant numbers, attracting the largest field of runners to date. And it’s easy to see why – its fast, its flat, boasts a stunning route and runners rave about it!  Being recognised as the UK’s Best Half Marathon (for 2 consecutive years), and attracting journalists to write about the race in the best publications around, might also have a little something to do with it!

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon is favoured for being a flat, fast and scenic 13.1 mile course, which is equally suitable for first-time runners as it is for club runners, elites and wheelchair athletes. It attracts a strong elite field from Wales and beyond, drawing in athletes from as far as South Africa and Australia.

Swathes of runners taking part will be raising money for charity, and getting into the spirit by sporting their best fancy dress, or running with their club team.  There will also be an attempt by a group of runners to break a new World Record for the most type 1 diabetics to run a half marathon.  One of the 88 diabetics to take on this challenge is; Anthony Fisher who is 80 years old, has been diabetic for 41 years and has taken part in 70 half marathons over the years and running London Marathon in 1991.  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; Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK and Maggie’s Cancer Centre.

The race has also attracted some famous faces in previous years with the likes of sports personalities; Shane Williams, Ryan Jones, Ian Gough and TV presenter CJ De Mooi, gracing the route. This year we can look forward to welcoming Torchwood and Broadchurch actress Eve Myles, ITV news presenter Andrea Byrne, and our very own Captain Beanie who will be seen wearing race number 57!

Families will also be joining in at this year’s SHM Family Dash.  Enabling young runners and families 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 1K of the half marathon route, before cheering on the athletes of the main event.  Starting at Swansea Castle at 9.30am, the dash will take place once the half marathon runners have passed the line.  All entries for the dash will close on the 20th June and bibs can be collected on race day from 7.30am at the Information Point in the Race Village (sited at Museum Green).

Runners and spectators alike will be entertained during the race by Bands Across the Bay; 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. 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.

Participating athletes will be keen to know that there will be a team of Xempo Race Pacers at the event.  Their team offers fantastic support during the race, to help runners get their pacing spot on to achieve their target time on race day. The pacers will run the race in the following estimated times: 1.30, 1.40, 1.45, 1.50, 2.00 hours, 2.10, 2.15, 2.20 and 2.30 hours.  Runners simply need to look out for their pacer within their designated pen and try to stay with them throughout the race to ensure accurate timing.

The Race Village will be located in Museum Green which is open to athletes and spectators from 7.30am on race day, and will host; the headline charities, information point, massage tent, cool down area, and a selection of food stands and stalls. All bags will be collected near the start area and loaded onto an articulated lorry provided by Owens Group to be collected on from the LC car park following the race.  Runners are being advised to avoid bringing a bag, but if they must, ALL bags must be clearly labelled and will be subject to inspection.  The race will start at 9.00am 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 8.50am prior to the main field of runners and the SHM Family Dash will commence at 9.30am.

Key race day timings:

  • 07:30: Race village open
  • 07:30: Baggage lorry open near the Brangwyn Hall
  • 08:00: Road closures commence
  • 08:30: Runners enter start funnels at Guildhall Road South
  • 08:50: Baggage drop off closes
  • 08:50: Wheelchair athlete race begins
  • 09:00: Elite and mass race starts
  • 09:30: SHM Family Dash starts at Swansea Castle
  • 10:05: Winner of JCP Swansea Half Marathon expected
  • 11:00: Winners presentation
  • 15:00: Event closes

The race day guide 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

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 www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk

Title record holders of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon include: European Champion & Swansea Harrier; Dewi Griffiths with a record time of 64:48, and Run Fast Hannah Walker who coasted her way to victory in 2016 in a time of 74:32.  Organisers expect to see a strong field of elites at this years race, with competitors coming from Ireland, Wales, England, Scotland and New Zealand.  The rivalry and competition is expected to fierce, with the hope from each competitor to gain recognition and the much sought after qualifying times.

The team behind the JCP Swansea Half Marathon continues to work with their founding sponsor JCP Solicitors and long-term partners that include; Matthews & Co, HMT Sancta Maria, Race Nation (the integrated event registration platform), and Home From Home (the self-catering accommodation agency).  The event delivery and hydration partner remains to be the Welsh favourite Brecon Carreg, who will help runners maintain their hydration levels at stations along the route.

For further event details or to follow your loved one on the live results to see how they are doing out on the course you can via Race Tracking online here: www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk   To stay ahead of all the news as it happens like the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf or follow @Swansea_HM #RunSwansea #FromTheCityToTheSea on Twitter.

21st June 2018
Love1

Maggie’s 2017 Charity Champion Tells Us Why He Ran Swansea

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Charity Champion, Ryan Cooke, ran the 2017 JCP Swansea Half Marathon for #TeamMaggies dressed as a Smurf, with his friend Lloyd Davies. Ryan hopes by telling his reasons for running for Maggie’s Cancer Centre last year, will encourage more people to fundraise for them in 2018’s race, which takes place on Sunday 24th June.

Ryan said,

“Personally I think Maggies is a fantastic charity as they help people cope with the stress, anxiety and the effects the families struggle with when a loved one’s fighting Cancer.

I’ve lost 1 grandmother and my wife has lost 3 grandparents to this awful disease. One of her grandparents Carl Quick passed away in Glangwili Hospital on the actual day of the Swansea Half Marathon.  I had a phone call as I crossed the finish line. I scanned the crowd thinking that my family had come down for support. Unfortunately Carl, who had complained about feeling short of breath for the last few days, had to be admitted into hospital. I got home as quick as I could, showered & went down to Carmarthen as soon as possible. We were waiting for his results from the tests when they found the Cancer. He must have been suffering with it for a while but had just put it down to a bad back from manual jobs & hard graft. Carl died that evening. I was very close to my wife’s Grandad as, having lost my own Grandfathers at a young age, he helped fill the void. 

Men rarely speak about feelings or ask for help this is why I think Maggies is such a great charity. I can remember like yesterday seeing my grandmother lose weight so quickly she looked like she was wasted away. She was always a happy, jolly woman, always cooking or baking. Her skin turned yellow due to jaundice and she lost well over half of her body weight. When the dreaded day of the funeral came, my cousin and I carried her coffin – just the two of us and it weighed next to nothing. She must have been around 5 stone in the end. Things like this stay with you, I still think about the people we lost but I know Maggie’s are there to help families who are going through tough times. The Maggies team are heroes in my eyes and I was glad when my employer (DVLA) chose Maggie’s as their charity of choice for 2018.”

If like Ryan you would like to become a charity champion and fundraise for Maggie’s then you can sign up here.

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon is a fast, flat road race on a course that is perfect for beginners, and first time half marathon runners. Headline charity places are available via our website for Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK and Maggie’s Cancer Centres.

The race has recently been recognised as being the “Best Half Marathon” in the UK at the UK Running Awards for the second consecutive year and runners can expect a fully marshalled course on closed roads, bespoke medal, technical t-shirt, on route entertainment and a goody bag for all finishers.

Go to www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk for further race details, ‘like’ the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #Run5wansea on Twitter and @swanseahalfmarathon on Instagram to keep up to date with all the latest news about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

15th June 2018
Love0

80-year-old with Type 1 diabetes gets set to break record at JCP Swansea Half Marathon

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An 80-year-old man with Type 1 diabetes is running the JCP Swansea Half Marathon for Diabetes UK Cymru.  He is one of a team of 88 runners with the condition aiming to help the charity break a world record at this year’s race.

Anthony Fisher, from Gloucestershire, was diagnosed in 1977. Since then he has run more than 70 half marathons, as well as running the London Marathon in 1991, aged 53. He is running to show others with the condition that it should not stop them from being active and enjoying exercise, as well as the difference that diabetes technology can make.

Anthony said,

“The diagnosis was a real shock. My children were only five and eight years old at the time, the same ages that my sister and I were when our father passed away. I was determined to be around for my children, and my wife, Liz.”

A keen cross-country runner as a child, Anthony rediscovered his enthusiasm for the sport soon after he was diagnosed.

Anthony continued,

“Running was something I could fit around my family life and running my own business. In 1991, I ran the London Marathon to show others with Type 1 that it is no barrier to sport. It was an enormous challenge. I had to test my blood glucose levels while running and remember dropping glucose tablets all over the road. You can even see blood glucose test sticks in my hand, in the photograph as I crossed the finish line.” 

People with Type 1 diabetes don’t produce the hormone insulin, which controls the amount of glucose in the blood, so they must receive it via regular injections or via a pump. Nobody knows what causes Type 1 diabetes and it isn’t currently preventable.

Physical exercise can impact blood glucose levels, meaning people who have Type 1 diabetes must manage their insulin before, during and after exercise.

Over the years, technology has transformed the way Anthony manages his condition. He uses a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM), a small device worn just under the skin. It measures blood glucose levels continuously throughout the day and night, and alerts the wearer when they are too high or too low.

Anthony connects his Continuous Glucose Monitor to a watch, enabling him to monitor his blood glucose levels in real time, which makes it much easier when exercising.

Diabetes UK Cymru set a new record for the number of people with Type 1 diabetes to run a half marathon at last year’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon when 29 took part. The charity hopes to break this record on Sunday 24 June.

Dai Williams, National Director, Diabetes UK Cymru, said,

“Anthony’s commitment to managing his Type 1 diabetes for more than 40 years is admirable, and his attitude towards staying active and spreading the word of potentially life-changing new technology is truly inspirational.

“This year’s race is not just about breaking a record: we hope to inspire others and create a community of individuals, like Anthony, who understand the challenges of life with the condition and can support each other. We are delighted to have Anthony on our team and are looking forward to cheering all our runners across the finish line on 24 June.”

For more information about this technology, visit www.bgonmywatch.com.

For more information about Diabetes UK Cymru, visit www.diabetes.org.uk/in_your_area/wales.

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon is a fast, flat road race on a course that is perfect for beginners, and first time half marathon runners. Headline charity places are available via our website for Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK and Maggie’s Cancer Centres.

Go to www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk for further race details, ‘like’ the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #Run5wansea on Twitter and @swanseahalfmarathon on Instagram to keep up to date with all the latest news about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

14th June 2018
Love0

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES & RESTRICTIONS

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TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES AND RESTRICTIONS

SWANSEA HALF MARATHON

NOTICE 2018

The Swansea Half Marathon is to be held on Sunday 24th June 2018 and will require temporary road closures and traffic restrictions to accommodate the event on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June 2018.

SATURDAY 12-00HRS TO SUNDAY 16:00HRS

Francis Street – from its junction with Guildhall Road South to its junction with St Helens Avenue.
Guildhall Road North – its entire length.

SCHEDULE 1: ROAD CLOSURES – SUNDAY 04-00HRS TO 11:00HRS

Guildhall Road South – its entire length.
St Helens Crescent – from its junction from St Helens Road to junction with Guildhall Road North.
Guildhall Road North (allows egress for parked cars further north than Guildhall Rd North)
Guildhall Road North – its entire length
Guildhall Rotunda.
Henrietta Street – from its junction with B4290 St Helens Road – no access onto St Helens Road.
B4290 St Helens Road – its entire length
Bond Street – from its junction with B4290 Oxford Street and Vincent Street
Oxford Street – from its junction with B4290 St Helens Road to Beach Street
Beach Street – from its junction with B4290 St Helens Road and Oxford Street.
Argyle Street – from its junction with B4290 St Helens Road.
Wyndham Street – from its junction with B4290 St Helens Road

SCHEDULE 2: ROAD CLOSURES – SUNDAY 08-30HRS TO 09:45HRS

Dillwyn Street -from junction with Oxford Street, its entire length.
Christina Street – its entire length.
The Kingsway – its entire length.
Orchard Street – its entire length.

SCHEDULE 3: ROAD CLOSURES – SUNDAY 08-00HRS TO 09:45HRS

Cradock Street – its entire length.
Pleasant Street – its entire length.
B4290 Alexandra Place – from its junction with Orchard Street.
A4118 Dyfatty Street (southbound) – from Dyfatty Lights to its junction with Orchard Street.
B4489 High Street (southbound) – entire length access to High Street Train Station.
Ivy Place – at its junction with B4290 High Street Train Station.
Mariner Street- its entire length.
Ebenezer Street- its entire length.
Tontine Street- its entire length. –exiting right turn only
Kings Lane – its entire length.
College Street- its entire length.
Welcome Lane – its entire length.
Castle Bailey Street – its entire length.
Castle Street – its entire length.
Castle Square – its entire length.
Caer Street – its entire length.
Wind Street – its entire length.

SCHEDULE 4: ROAD CLOSURES – SUNDAY 08-30HRS TO 11:30HRS

A4067 Oystermouth Road – from its junction with Princess Way to West Way (eastbound and west bound traffic).
A4067 Quay Parade – from Sainsbury’s Store to Wind Street.
A4067 Victoria Road – its entire length in eastbound and westbound direction.

SCHEDULE 5: ROAD CLOSURES – SUNDAY 08-45HRS TO 15:00HRS

Somerset Place – its entire length
Adelaide Street – its entire length.
Pier Street – it’s entire length.
East Burrows Road – at its junction with Somerset Place
Cambrian Place – junction with Somerset Place
Burrows Place – its entire length
Ferry Side – its entire length

Egress for residents where possible and when safe to do so.

SCHEDULE 6: ROAD CLOSURES – SUNDAY AS BELOW

A4067 Oystermouth Road 08:30 to 10:40: – West Way to Guildhall Road South. (westbound only)
A4067 Mumbles Road 08:30 to 11:30: – Guildhall Road South to Mayals Road (westbound only).
A4067 Mumbles Road 08:30 to 11:30 – Mayals Road to Newton Road (eastbound and westbound)
A4067 Mumbles Road 08:30 to 11:30 Newton Road to Knab Rock (westbound only)

SCHEDULE 7: ROAD CLOSED – NO RIGHT TURN, NO LEFT TURN: SUNDAY 08-30HRS TO 11:30HRS

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 Avenue onto Mumbles Road.
Norton Road onto Mumbles Road.

Egress for residents where possible and when safe to do so.

SCHEDULE 8: NO RIGHT TURN: SUNDAY 08-30HRS TO 11:30HRS

Mayals Road onto A4067 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.
Newton Road onto Mumbles Road

SCHEDULE 9: VARYING RESTRICTIONS: SUNDAY

Dunvant Place onto A4067 Oystermouth Road – no left turn, no right turn – 08:30hrs – 09:45hrs.
Brynmill Lane onto A4067 Mumbles Road – Road Closed – 08:15hrs-11:00hrs.
Sketty Lane onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn/no left turn/no U-turn – 08:15hrs-11:30hrs.
Ashleigh Road onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn – 08:15hrs-11:30hrs.
Derwen Fawr Road onto A4067 Mumbles Rd – no right turn – 08:30hrs-11:30hrs.
Mill Lane onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn – 08:30hrs-11:30hrs.
Unnamed Rd (The Woodman Public House) onto A4067 Mumbles Road – no right turn – 08:30hrs-11:30hrs.
Newton Road onto Mumbles Road no left/right turn- 08:30hrs-11:30hrs.

SCHEDULE 10: “NO PARKING” RESTRICTIONS (TOW AWAY ZONE) 0400 – 1100HRS SUNDAY 24TH JUNE

Francis Street.
Guildhall Road North.
Guildhall Road South
Guildhall Car Park
St Helens Crescent.

Any vehicles parked in contradiction of these Parking Restrictions will be towed away by the Council without further notice.

SCHEDULE 11: “NO PARKING” RESTRICTIONS (TOW AWAY ZONE) 0400 – 15-00HRS SUNDAY 24TH JUNE

St Helens Road.
Ivy Place.
High Street.
Castle Bailey Street.
Castle Street.
Wind Street.
Caer Street.
Somerset Place.
Ferry Side.

Any vehicles parked in contradiction of these Parking Restrictions will be towed away by the Council without further notice. 

 

Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times

 

This Order is made with the consent of Welsh Government.

8th June 2018
Love3

Alzheimer’s Society Charity Champions Tell Us Why They Are Running Swansea

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Charity Champion’s, Chris and Stephen Stokes are fundraising for our headline charity partner, Alzheimer’s Society at this year’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon on Sunday 24th June.

Chris and Stephen decided to be at the start line of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon in June and run to beat dementia following their family’s experience.

Chris and Stephen said:

“Our Nan was diagnosed with dementia when we were teenagers, we were devastated. Earlier this year our other Nan was diagnosed with dementia. This is why we’re taking part in the Swansea Half; we want to give back to the charity that has been incredibly supportive to our family. We’re nervous about the challenge, but our jersey’s say ‘United we run’ on the back, and that’s exactly what we’ll do on the day.”

If like Chris and Stephen you would like to become a Charity Champion and help Alzheimer’s Society Unite Against Dementia, join their team in the JCP Swansea Half Marathon here.

If you’ve already got your place in the JCP Swansea Half Marathon, you can still join Team Alzheimer’s Society here.

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon is a fast, flat road race on a course that is perfect for beginners, and first time half marathon runners. Headline charity places are available via our website for Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK and Maggie’s Cancer Centres.

The race has recently been recognised as being the “Best Half Marathon” in the UK at the UK Running Awards for the second consecutive year and runners can expect a fully marshalled course on closed roads, bespoke medal, technical t-shirt, on route entertainment and a goody bag for all finishers.

Go to www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk for further race details, ‘like’ the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #Run5wansea on Twitter and @swanseahalfmarathon on Instagram to keep up to date with all the latest news about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

8th June 2018
Love0

Cancer Research UK Charity Champion Tells Us Why He’s Running Swansea

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Charity Champion and Swansea resident, 27 year old, Lloyd Bevan is fundraising for our headline charity partner, Cancer Research UK at this year’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon on June 24th. Lloyd has decided to take on the 13.1 mile challenge following his family’s experience of cancer, in memory of his Dad, Nan and in celebration of his Mum’s battle.

Lloyd said:

“I personally want to run the JCP Swansea Half in memory of some precious family. This race will be for my nan, who passed away from cancer and for my dad, who was terminally ill with cancer at the same time. Dad had suffered a stroke and it was whilst he was in hospital recovering that they found he had lung cancer. Unfortunately, the cancer had already spread and he passed away recently. I want to run to make him proud and help others who will go through the same difficult experience as my family. I’ll also be running in celebration of my mum, who had skin cancer a few years ago and made a full recovery.

I’ve donated to Cancer Research UK before, but I’ve never taken on a challenge like this! I’m not physically fit, so it’s a real personal challenge to train hard to make sure I finish the race. I’m enjoying it, although I will be very emotional and happy to cross the line and prove a few supportive doubters wrong!

I’ve chosen to run for Cancer Research UK because cancer has affected myself and my family so much. I think the more we talk about cancer, raise awareness of it and fundraise, the more we can support other families who have had to deal with cancer. Having lost both my nan and dad to this awful disease, me running a few miles and raising awareness and funds to support the charity is something I’m more than willing to do.”

Lloyd has already exceeded his fundraising target as he continues his training ready for Race Day.

If like Lloyd, you would like to be a CHARITY CHAMPION and help Cancer Research UK beat cancer sooner. Join their team in the JCP Swansea Half here.

If you’ve already got your place in the JCP Swansea Half, why not start your fundraising?

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon is a road race that is flat, fast on a course that is perfect for beginners, and first time half marathon runners. Headline charity places are available via our website for Cancer Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society and Maggie’s Cancer Centres.

The race has recently been recognised as being the “Best Half Marathon” in the UK for the second consecutive year and runners can expect a fully marshalled course on closed roads, bespoke medal, technical t-shirt, on route entertainment and a goody bag for all finishers.

Go to www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk for further race details, like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #Run5wansea on Twitter and @swanseahalfmarathon on Instagram to keep up to date with all the latest news about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

24th April 2018
Love0

JCP Swansea Half Marathon Announce A Faster Flatter Route for 2018

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The 5th year anniversary of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon this year will mean joy for all runners as the organisers, Front Runner Events, confirm a new route. Following detailed discussions with City & County of Swansea officials, emergency services and other stakeholders, the new route will begin at Swansea’s world famous Brangwyn Hall.

The changes are being implemented due to the planned development of the City Centre as well as to allow for growth in race participation. Race Director, David Martin-Jewell said:

“With the centre of Swansea at the beginning of a huge re-development scheme, we need to be able to cater for the planned and phased changes as well as continuing to deliver a successful and growing race. As such, we have been working closely with members of the Council’s Highways and Special Events teams to devise this new route that will allow us to continue with the race (alongside the planned works) and give us the opportunity to expand the race for future growth.

The Brangwyn is iconic in our city, and we felt that on our 5th Anniversary it was only fitting to start our race outside this fantastic venue.  We are thrilled to be able to make this the new home for the start of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.”

Further changes are also planned, with more entertainment on route, a new location for the finish of the race at Swansea Museum, along with a new race village being held at Museum Green.  David added;

“The new changes have resulted in a number of logistical issues we have had to overcome, such as the baggage. We will have articulated lorries at the start that will carry all bags to the finish area. There are also 2 builds for the start and finish areas, so the decision to amend the route is not one that can be taken lightly due to the amount of work that is involved. However, we feel the running dynamic for the runners, will definitely be improved as we are utilising a lot more of Swansea’s wider streets. Over the coming weeks, we will be working closely with the public to discuss key areas of the route as we aim to mitigate any issues that may be raised in advance of the race”.

The new route, which removes the return run up Wind St, has made the course flatter, which, the organisers believe will result in even faster times across the entirety of the field.

David further added:

“Now that the route is finalised, we can focus on the running aspects and given that we have removed the return up Wind St, the course is flatter, which should make for event quicker times for the winners, but also for personal bests across the entire field. It really is an exciting time for the race and the fact it’s our 5th anniversary, it just adds to the occasion.”

The new route is as follows:

START: Brangwyn Hall (Guildhall South Road)
St Helens Road
Kingsway
Orchard St
Ivey Place
High St
Castle St
Wind St
Mumbles Road
Promenade (in its entirety)
Trafalgar Bridge
Quayside (SA1)
Millennium Bridge
Prospect Place
FINISH: Adelaide St

More details will be available over the coming weeks and Front Runner Events are advising the public and participants to monitor their website, social media channels and email for future updates.   To register your place or find out more about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon that takes place on 24th June 2018, just visit www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk To stay up to date with all the latest news like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #Run5wansea #FromTheCityToTheSea on Twitter.

 

23rd April 2018
Love3

Front Runner Events Hits The Double At The 2018 UK Running Awards

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Following the success of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon in the UK Running Awards in 2016 and 2017, winning silver and gold awards respectively, the Front Runner Events Team were delighted to have not only one, but two of their races shortlisted at the 2018 UK Running Awards.

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon was shortlisted in the Best Half Marathon, greater than 5000 participants category and the Llanelli Half Marathon was shortlisted in the Best Half Marathon, fewer than 5000 participants category.

The Front Runner Event team were delighted to be awarded double Gold for both the JCP Swansea Half Marathon and the Llanelli Half Marathon after receiving the most votes by runners at the only independent awards ceremony that celebrates the best of running and its culture.

The event took place at Indigo in the O2 on Thursday (19th April) where David Martin-Jewell, Managing Director and Tash Smith, Senior Event Coordinator were presented with the trophies from Mike Bushell and Rachel Stringer, in front of a room full of A-list names from the running and sports industry, making the award the most sought after and coveted amongst races across the UK.

David said: “I am absolutely delighted to have won Gold in both Half Marathon categories, we joked about this in the office before the ceremony, but we didn’t actually expect it to happen, it is amazing. This is an extraordinary achievement and we are all thrilled to be recognised in this way by our runners. Our team (staff/volunteers/partners and contractors) plays a huge role in bringing the events together and delivering a successful race weekend, so it is wonderful that we are able to receive and share these awards with them. Everyone at Front Runner Events would like to thank those who voted and we now look to build on the standards that we have set and our runners expect.”

The JCP Swansea Half Marathon takes place in only 9 weeks on Sunday 24th June 2018 on fully closed road. 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 #Run5wansea. Race entries are open and public places cost only £33 for affiliated athletes and £35 for non-affiliated runners, which includes a fully marshalled course on closed roads, bespoke medal, technical t-shirt, on route entertainment, post massage and goody bag for all finishers. A total of 8,000 places are available with 85% of spaces already taken, there is no better time to register your place than now.

Go to www.swanseahalfmarathon.co.uk for further race details and to sign up, like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SwanseaHalf and follow @Swansea_HM #Run5wansea #FromTheCityToTheSea on Twitter and @swanseahalfmarathon on Instagram to keep up to date with all the latest news about the JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

The Llanelli Half Marathon 2019 takes place in February and entries are open now. Go to www.llanellihalf.co.uk for further race details and sign up, like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/LlanelliHalf and follow @LlanelliHalf #RunElli on Twitter and @llanellihalfmarathon on Instagram to keep up to date with all latest news about the Llanelli Half Marathon.

20th April 2018
Love1

Diabetes UK Cymru looks for runners to break record at JCP Swansea Half Marathon

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Diabetes UK Cymru is looking for runners with Type 1 diabetes to join a world record attempt at this year’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon.

The charity is hoping to break the world record for the number of people with Type 1 diabetes to run a half marathon.

Diabetes UK Cymru set the record at last year’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon, when 29 people with Type 1 took part in memory of Cardiff schoolboy Peter Baldwin, who passed away as a result of undiagnosed Type 1 diabetes in January 2015.  This year they are hoping to recruit 101 runners for the race on Sunday 24 June.

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition that affects around 1,400 children and young people in Wales, and around 19,000 adults. People with the condition don’t produce the hormone insulin, which is responsible for controlling the amount of glucose in the blood. Nobody knows what causes Type 1 diabetes and it isn’t currently preventable.

Physical exercise can impact your blood glucose levels, meaning people who have Type 1 diabetes must manage their insulin before, during and after exercise.

Dai Williams, National Director, Diabetes UK Cymru, said, “We were over the moon last summer when our team of Type 1 runners set a new world record and helped us raise vital awareness of Type 1 diabetes. It’s not just about breaking a record: we hope to inspire others and create a community of individuals who understand the challenges of life with the condition and can support each other.

“It doesn’t matter if you have never run before: if you have Type 1 and you want to be part of our team, then get in touch.”

The charity is working closely on the challenge with supporter Paul Coker, who ran 40 half marathons in 2017 to raise awareness of Type 1 diabetes and mark 40 years of living with the condition. The 2017 JCP Swansea Half Marathon was the final event in his challenge.

Paul, 45, from Ferndale, discovered running in 2013 and has since then been on a mission to unite people with the condition to exercise safely through his website 1bloodydrop.com.

Paul Coker said, “This event will bring people together to form a Type 1 diabetes community. By taking part, they will prove to themselves and to others that having the condition should not hold you back and that life with Type 1 diabetes is what you make it. By being part of the research they’ll also create a legacy, helping us learn more about the condition, and if we are able to break the world record then that will be the icing on the cake!”

This year’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon will be the largest mass-participation running event the city has ever seen, with over 8,000 runners expected to take part. The fast, flat course takes participants “From The City To The Sea”, and organisers are set to reveal a new route for this its fifth year. Starting in Swansea City Centre, runners make their way along six miles of stunning coastline, taking in the marina and iconic city architecture on their way.

David Martin-Jewell, managing director of Front Runner Events, said, “One of my children has Type 1 diabetes, so my wife and I know what it means to live with this condition. We are very proud to be a part of this challenge and wish all those running for the record attempt the very best of luck with their training and during the race.”

To book your place on Diabetes UK Cymru’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon team, contact 02920 668276 or [email protected] before Friday 4 May.

17th April 2018
Love1

Training Plans & Tips To Help You #Run5wansea

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Here at Front Runner Events our goal is not just to get you to the start line, we want to do everything we can do to help you get your training right and see you cross that finish line and become a Front Runner!

Pick a Plan

We have designed training plans for all levels of fitness. The Beginner plans are designed for your first-time runner looking to complete the distance and enjoy the day without putting too much importance on time. The Improver plan is designed for a runner looking to improve on previous race experiences. The Advanced plan is for experienced runners looking to build on previous performances and achieve the sought after Personal Best!

The training plans should be used as a guide and work around your everyday life, we have also included some top tips from our team to go alongside your plan.

16 Week Half Marathon Beginner Plan
16 Week Half Marathon Improver Plan
16 Week Half Marathon Advanced Plan
12 Week Half Marathon Beginner Plan
12 Week Half Marathon Improver Plan
12 Week Half Marathon Advanced Plan

Strength in Numbers

Whether you are an experienced runner or taking on your first Half Marathon having a running buddy or training group can often help keep you on track when training gets tough.

There will be times when work or the weather amongst other things will affect your mood ahead of an important run making it easy to skip it. You may think to yourself – “not today, I’ll run tomorrow instead”

Having someone to run with on those days will help you stick to your plan and help you be better prepared for the big day.

Practice your Race Day Hydration & Nutrition

A Half Marathon puts your body under a lot of stress, we train for race day to get our body ready for the exertion of running 13.1 miles, we also need to prepare our bodies by practicing our hydration and nutrition.

It is important to fuel before and after your run as well as during to keep your body working efficiently. Training is where you practice different types of hydration and fuelling to find one your body agrees with. With water stations available on race day to help you stay hydrated, practice your hydration on your training runs.

Use your long run day to find the best pre-and post-run meal that best prepares your body and helps you recover afterwards. You will also need to practice using energy gels, bars, chews etc during these runs, these will help keep you going during your long run and also on race day.

Don’t try anything new during Race Week, your body may not agree with it.

Recovery

Once you catch the running bug it’s very easy to ignore recovery runs & rest days as you enjoying running so much you want to get out at every opportunity. Your plan should include recovery runs and rest days. It is extremely important that you stick to your plan and give your body time to recover from a hard session, otherwise all that hard work you’ve put in could be undone by picking up an injury.

Having some time off and putting your feet up won’t make you any less fit, it will have the opposite effect! Proper recovery will help your body prepare for the sessions to come to allow you to get the most out of a run and more importantly – stay injury free.

Quality over Quantity – it’s not the end of the world if you have to replace your recovery runs with additional rest days, make sure you get your Long Run, Tempo & Speed sessions done.

22nd February 2018
Love2

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