A RECORD breaking 3,566 runners took to the streets of Coventry on Sunday to take part in the city’s annual half marathon event.
This year’s event saw runners begin their 13-mile challenge in the city centre before taking a route which saw them take a gradual climb towards Radford and through Allesley.
The final section of the route took runners downhill back towards the city centre where they crossed the finish line at Millennium Place by the Transport Museum.
Hundreds of spectators also lined the streets to show their support and provide much-needed motivation.
“We have been astounded by the level of support shown for Coventry’s Half Marathon,” said Jamie Warren, head of marketing and commercial at event organisers GO2.
“From runners, residents and supporters alike, who lined the street in their thousands to cheer each and every runner through their 13.1 mile challenge.
“People will take on a half marathon for many reasons, whether it be to get fit, raise money for charity, or remember a loved one, but it is the coming together of the whole community to embrace the positive impact that the event has on its city that really makes it stand out.”
Lincoln Wellington AC runner Tom Doe crossed the finish time first in a time of one hour, ten minutes and 21 seconds to take Gold.
In second place came Matt Adcock from Hermitage Harriers RC in one hour ten minutes and 37 seconds and he was followed by Dale Annable from Heanor Running Club in one hour ten minutes and 41 seconds.
Emms Styles, from Hinckley Running Club, crossed as the fastest women in one hour 23 minutes and 30 seconds, with Amanda Deavy finishing second in one hour 23 minutes and 44 seconds and Coventry Godive Harriers runner Myshola Kirkham took third.
There was also record breaking times secured by Steven Brown, dressed as Forrest Gump, who went under one hour and 40 minutes to take the new record time for the fastest half marathon dressed as a film character.
And Vicky Whitlock, from local charity partner The Myton Hospices also attempted the record for the fastest half marathon dressed as a cow.
Over 900 local school children also joined in the event, by completing their own half marathon distance across 13 weeks as part of the Schools’ Challenge, raising funds for Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance.
Counc Abdul Khan, cabinet bember with responsibility for events, added: “It was a great sight to see thousands of people in the city centre for Sunday’s event.
“Having so many people take part whether it was for fun, keeping fit or raising monies, it is all great profile for the city.
“Coventry’s Half Marathon is a good example of how the council can work together with a number of partners to deliver quality events for the city, which is what the city’s events strategy is aiming to achieve. Well done to all those involved on the day.”
If you feel inspired by this year’s race, pre-registration is now open for next year’s race at coventryhalf.com.
Schoolchildren complete their half marathon event. (s)
Over 3,5000 runners of all ages and abilities took part in this year’s Coventry Half Marathon. (s)
Three ladies get in the spirit by dressing up as Minnie Mouse. (s)
Two runners in fancy dress cross the finish line…Much to their relief. (s)
The three fastest men and women – Tom Doe, Matt Adcock, Dale Annable, Emms Styles, Amanda Deavy and Myshola Kirkham. (s)
