Normal service was resumed for the Retford Half Marathon that returned on a sunny Sunday morning (6 March) to critical acclaim. A mixture of runners from top amateurs to first timers got into their stride on the same course as the 2020 race and were full of praise for the organisation and support.     

Organised by Retford AC, this race is often used as a tune up for a spring marathon and an opportunity to see if training is going well in the build up to one's target event. It was also chosen as the 2022 Nottinghamshire County Championship Half Marathon, giving people an extra reason to enter. 

The excellent facilities at Retford Oaks Academy made it, once again, the HQ for the Half Marathon and Family Fun Run. Acting as the start where over 700 runners headed off at 10am on a mostly closed road course around one of the oldest market towns, duly applauded by locals and marshals alike.    

Kristian Watson of Mansfield Harriers was first across the finish line at Retford Oaks Academy in a time of 1:09:01. Matthew Snow of City of Hull AC finished second in 1:11:30 and Chris Kilburn of Holme Pierrepont RC third in 1:12:12. 

For the women, Nicola Devine of Rotherham Harriers was the winning female in 1:18:00 followed by Charlie Hanson of Lincoln Wellington AC in 1:18:24. Devine’s teammate Keri Pearson was third in 1:20:47. 

The last runner crossed the line in 3:02:26. There were 716 finishers. 

All the results including the Nottinghamshire County Championships categories can be viewed via runABC Midlands Race Listings page. 

With last year's race cancelled due to Covid, it was a truly welcome return for this year's Retford Half.

Image courtesy of Mick Hall Photos.