Some of Britain's biggest distance running names will take to the streets of London on Sunday 6 September as The Big Half welcomes a formidable elite field alongside thousands of community runners.

British Half Marathon record-holder Eilish McColgan returns seeking her third victory after winning in 2022 and 2024. Her appearance follows a difficult few months after suffering a toe injury during April's TCS London Marathon, where she nevertheless finished seventh overall and was the first British woman home.

Defending champion Jess Warner-Judd provides strong opposition. The fourth fastest British woman ever over the Half Marathon, with a 1:07:07 personal best, won The Big Half in 2025. Former champion Lily Partridge also returns, adding further strength to the women's race.

There could be history in the men's event. Jack Rowe has won the past three editions and victory this September would give him four consecutive titles, moving him beyond Sir Mo Farah's record. Rowe arrives with a 1:00:17 personal best set in New York earlier this year.

Jake Smith and Zak Mahamed, both among Britain's ten fastest Half Marathon runners, join Rowe on the start line, while Phil Sesemann, Weynay Ghebresilasie and Scottish record-holder Andy Butchart add further depth.

The wheelchair races bring another opportunity for records. David Weir will pursue a fifth Big Half victory after setting a 46:58 course record in 2025. Defending women's champion Eden Rainbow-Cooper returns following her victory at the Boston Marathon in April.

Beyond the elite competition, around 25,000 people are registered across The Big Half community running festival. The programme combines the Half Marathon with the New Balance Big Relay and Big Mile for children and families.

With British records, defending champions and potentially a piece of Big Half history on the line, the elite races should provide an absorbing opening to one of London's biggest community running days.

General entries are closed but you can still run for charity via the runABC race hub here.

Image courtesy Media at The Big Half.