Published on
16 January 2024
Limited entries remain for Wokingham Half Marathon
It is estimated that more than £100,000 is raised each year from people taking part in the event
Runners who want to take part in this year’s David Cliff Wokingham Half Marathon are being advised to sign up promptly, with more than 80 per cent of places already taken.
Around 3,500 runners will take to the streets for Wokingham Borough’s biggest running event of the year on Sunday 25 February, with the event attracting elite and club runners.
It also sees lots of people running for charity and it is estimated that more than £100,000 is raised each year from the event.
Last year’s half marathon was sold out and the organisers are expecting the same this year.
Starting and finishing at Cantley Park in Twyford Road, the route runs through the town centre and gives families and friends the chance to cheer on the runners at lots of different stages.
Also returning this year is the Wokingham Children’s Mini-Mile, which was introduced in 2020 and gives young people a chance to be involved and get a medal of their own. Parents are welcome to run with their children on the route and children under eight must be accompanied by an adult.
The half marathon starts at 10am and the children’s event follows at approximately 10.15am. There is no parking available at Cantley Park or on surrounding roads due to event road closures, which are due to be lifted by 2pm.
A huge community effort
Race organiser Chris Sumner said: “We are expecting another sell out year and it is really great to see how the local community gets behind the race and contributes to its success. Last year, we were able to increase our charitable donations to local groups by 10 per cent, which we were really pleased about.
“Every year, more than 300 local volunteers help to make the half marathon the success it is. Help comes from community groups, scout and guide packs and local charities and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support.”
Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, sport and leisure, said: “The Wokingham Half Marathon is always one of the highlights of the year and a great occasion for the community. A huge amount of work goes on behind the scenes to make the day a success. With the half marathon and mini-mile, it really is a day for people of all ages to come together and enjoy.”
Entry for the half marathon is £36.75 for affiliated runners and is £2 extra for those who are not part of a running club, while entry for the mini-mile is £10.
Launching in 1984, the half marathon has been previously used for international trials and local championships. At last year’s race, a world record was set by Christine Kennedy for the W65 category, with more than 550 runners completing the event in under 90 minutes.
More information is available on the Wokingham Half Marathon website, including how to enter and frequently asked questions.
