For almost a decade people from across the UK and beyond have laced up their running shoes for what is now known as the Swansea University Swansea Half Marathon.
The sporting event, which was first established in 2014, proudly partnered with legal firm JCP Solicitors as the title sponsor for the inaugural race.
Over the years, the law firm that is headquartered in Swansea, has supported the team behind the Swansea Half Marathon on their journey to deliver one of the leading running events in the UK.
With the 13.1 mile race taking place this coming Sunday, we invited JCP Solicitors’ CEO Hayley Davies to share her favourite memories from the last eight years:
Sponsors from the start
Hayley said: “We loved the idea and could see what an event such as this could bring to Swansea and we were really keen to be involved from the very start. There was a real buzz about it amongst the running and triathlon community in the area.
“Since then, we have sponsored the half marathon for eight years and it has been an incredible pleasure to watch it grow into one of the city’s most popular annual events.”
Winning the event
JCP Solicitors hasn’t just supported the event for eight years – its team members have also taken part – and won – too!
Matt Wells, winner at the inaugural Swansea Half Marathon (2014). Image credit: Dirty Green Trainers
Hayley said: “In 2015 one of our former family solicitors, Matthew Wells, won the main event!
“We were obviously incredibly proud as a firm and delighted for him – however as the title sponsor, we couldn’t have made this up if we tried.
“JCP has also won the Celf Corporate Challenge several times and our team are excited to take part again this year.”
Inspirational runners
JCP said it had also been an “incredible privilege” to see so many of the UK’s most inspirational people taking part in the race along Swansea’s coastline.
In 2017 Matthew Rees, who gained worldwide recognition after selflessly helping fellow runner David Wyeth over the line at the London Marathon, took part.
Swansea Harriers’ runner Matthew and Chorlton Runners’ member David (pictured below) took on the Swansea event together, finishing within three minutes of each other.
Matt Rees & David Wyeth
Hayley added: “Every year thousands of extraordinary people take part in the event to raise funds for charity, challenge themselves, or to indulge in their passion for running and it’s been remarkable to see.
“We are also constantly blown away by the amazing disabled athletes who take on the event, and their drive and determination always inspire us.”
Richie Powell, wheelchair winner in 2019
Supporting charity
The half marathon has consistently attracted a host of runners who are fundraising for worthwhile causes. From Maggie’s cancer care in Swansea and Cancer Research UK to the Welsh homelessness charity Shelter Cymru, the sponsorship funds raised as a result of the event have made such a meaningful difference to people – and to vital research efforts – across the UK.
Maggie’s Charity runners
Hayley said:
“Those running in aid of a charity are such an inspiration, and we are delighted that the half marathon provides opportunities for such large-scale fundraising and philanthropy year-on-year.”
Bringing the city together
Hayley said:
“Undoubtedly, one of our favourite things about the half marathon is the way it has united the city of Swansea. “Every year thousands of people turn out to cheer on the runners, and the atmosphere along the route is electric.“Come rain or shine the crowds are there to offer words of encouragement, and it really encapsulates the supportive, unified spirit of the event perfectly.”
Passing the baton
After sponsoring the Swansea half marathon for eight years, JCP is proud to support the event as it joins forces with Swansea University.
Hayley added:
“We would like to wish the new title sponsors Swansea University the very best of luck from this year, along with the wonderful runners who are set to take part once again. Swansea Uni’s team is raising funds for Making Strides for Mental Health, an incredible cause which raises funds for world-renowned research into mental health and wellbeing.
“We can’t wait to line up alongside you for the ninth annual event!”
JCP corporate run team
