Southampton Marathon bounces back
Springtime return for south coast classic
And the award for the most postponed race goes to ... ABP Southampton Marathon.
Possibly one accolade that race promoters ReesLeisure would prefer not to collect but if such a prize existed they would have been a shoo-in!
Covid restrictions resulted in numerous postponements, despite tremendous efforts over two years, before this Spring classic finally went ahead with 3,660 finishers in four events on Sunday 5th September – one of the first mass participation marathons to be held last year.
The good news is that with confidence that 2022 will be far more 'normal' ABP Southampton Marathon is back in its favoured slot in the calendar on Sunday 24th April. There will be three main events: ABP Southampton Marathon; ABP Southampton Half and ABP Southampton 10K, plus the Fun Run.
Entry benefits include FREE race photos; FREE Training Plans; FREE moisture-wicking t-shirt and a specially designed 2022 medal to cherish. The buzzing Race Village will cater to all your needs and the legendary warm, friendly welcome is woven into the fabric of this event.
All races start and finish in the centrally located Southampton Guildhall Square and the marathon is run over two laps. The inspiring route begins in the city centre before running past ABP Southampton docks, then over the famous Itchen Bridge with its glorious views across the Southampton Waters, The Solent, and the New Forest beyond.
Further course highlights include the shoreline at Weston Shore; the inside of St Mary's Stadium (home to Premiership team Southampton FC – The Saints); Northam Bridge; Riverside Park and Southampton Common – venue of the UK's second-largest parkrun.
Last year's marathon champions were Sean Hogan (Poole Runners, 2:35:03) and Melissah Gibson (Ealing Eagles, 2:54:16), eighth overall and one of 19 athletes to record a time of under three hours on a scorching day.
Full information and entry portal at ABP Southampton Marathon website
Previous results and reports at runABC South race listing here
Image courtesy ABP Southampton Marathon/ReesLeisure
